All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Fairmont State University names Katie Byers Director of Alumni Relations

Katie Byers
Katie Byers

Fairmont State University welcomes Katie Byers as she begins her tenure as Director of Alumni Relations during the University’s Homecoming. As she continues in this role, Byers will work to grow and engage the Fairmont State alumni network.

“We are thrilled to welcome Katie in this role, just in time for our Homecoming festivities,” said Fairmont State Alumni Association President, Mary Jo Thomas. “She has truly hit the ground running, contributing to the successes of our long-awaited Homecoming celebration. We look forward to the continued growth of our alumni engagements under her leadership.”

Byers possesses a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Georgia Southern University. Although a Georgie native, Byers has planted roots in West Virginia and previously served in the Fairmont State University Relations and Marketing Department. Byers has also been named a 2021 Marion County Dancing with the Stars choreographer by the Tygart Valley United Way and the Marion County Chamber of Commerce.

Prior to her career at Fairmont State, she held roles at higher education institutions including Georgia Southern University and Ogeechee Technical College.

“Katie has a unique skill set that will make her a great success in this role,” said Fairmont State University President, Mirta M. Martin. “In her time in University Relations and Marketing, her professional collegiality, and her sincere, outgoing kindness have proven to be invaluable. Though not an alumna herself, she’s a true Falcon – she loves this institution, believes deeply in its mission, and is driven to help every student soar.”

The University will look to Byers to provide leadership and vision to the Office of Alumni that is strategic, operationally efficient, effective and impactful. She will partner with the University’s Executive Leadership Team and the Fairmont State Foundation to address opportunities to attract alumni.

“I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve the University and Alumni Association in this capacity,” Byers said. “Fairmont State’s alumni span from far and wide, and I can’t wait to showcase the outstanding accomplishments and milestones of the Falcon Family. I look forward to working alongside both current and future alumni, and connecting them to ways of engagement and opportunities within such a proud network.”

The University extends its sincere gratitude to former Director of Alumni Relations, Jeremy Hatcher, for his vision, dedication and steadfast leadership while serving the Fairmont State Alumni Association. During his tenure, Hatcher launched several alumni initiatives including the Alumni Spotlight Series, in conjunction with the Fairmont State Encova Career Development Center.

The Fairmont State Alumni Association serves as the non-profit organization that engages and works to build relationships between Fairmont State University and alumni. For more information, visit www.fairmontstate.edu/alumni.

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