Fairmont State University has named five West Virginia high school students as recipients of the Charles J. McClain Presidential Scholarship. Also known as the Presidential Scholarship, the award covers tuition, program fees, room and board, and provides a $500 per semester stipend for textbooks through the campus bookstore.
The 2025 Presidential Scholars are:
- Bryanna Pyle of Webster Springs, WV – Webster County High School
- Hank Simmons of Clarksburg, WV – Robert C. Byrd High School
- Kadyn McClure of New Martinsville, WV – Magnolia High School
- Ella Markl of Slatyfork, WV – Pocahontas County High School
- Emma Hartman of Franklin, WV – Pendleton County High School
The recipients will begin their studies at Fairmont State in fall 2025.
“At Fairmont State University, we are committed to recognizing and supporting students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential,” said President Mike Davis. “The Presidential Scholarship represents our investment in the future of these outstanding scholars and the impact they will have on our campus and beyond. We are proud to welcome this year’s recipients to Falcon Nation and look forward to seeing all they will accomplish.”
Bryanna Pyle plans to major in biology and hopes to attend optometry school after graduation. Her goal is to open an optometry practice in a rural area to improve access to eye care. She looks forward to joining the Fairmont community and welcoming new students.
“This scholarship will allow me to focus on my schoolwork and get involved with my college community, as well as save money to attend optometry school out of state in the future,” Pyle said.
Hank Simmons will major in computer science, hoping to explore career opportunities and build professional connections.
“The Charles J. McClain Scholarship will allow me to fully apply myself to my studies without having to focus on the cost of college,” Simmons said. “I am so grateful for this opportunity and cannot wait to uphold this prestigious honor.”
Kadyn McClure plans to enter the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. She hopes to become a nurse practitioner specializing in women’s health and inspire others to embrace lifelong learning.
“The Charles J. McClain Scholarship will affect my college career by allowing me to focus solely on my studies, not the debt I am creating,” said McClure. “I will still choose to work for fun, but I am thankful it isn’t a necessity now. In addition, it will act as motivation for me to do well since I know my academic successes are being recognized!”
Ella Markl will major in national security and intelligence and minor in political science, though she is considering a double major. She is passionate about national security and counterterrorism and hopes to pursue a career in the federal workforce. Markl also plans to continue her education in graduate school.
“The Charles J. McClain Scholarship is a true blessing for me,” Markl said. “Without it, I would have carried a financial burden throughout my four years. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity and look forward to representing Fairmont State.”
Emma Hartman will major in elementary education and is passionate about teaching young children, particularly those who struggle academically. She hopes to earn a master’s degree in education to further her impact as an educator.
“This scholarship will have a huge impact on my college career by relieving a financial burden,” Hartman said. “It will allow me to focus on my education without the stress of working multiple jobs to pay for school.
To maintain the Charles J. McClain Presidential Scholarship, first-year recipients must achieve a minimum 2.75 GPA by the end of their first year. In subsequent years, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete at least 30 credit hours annually. The scholarship is renewable for up to eight semesters.
To learn more about the Charles J. McClain Presidential Scholarship, visit https://www.fairmontstate.edu/financial-aid/scholarships/charles-j-mcclain-presidential.aspx.
