Fairmont State University proudly celebrates Assistant Professor of Graphic Design Jared Tadlock, who has been named one of the 2025 Generation Next: 40 Under 40 honorees by The State Journal and WV News. Tadlock was selected from hundreds of applicants across West Virginia for his professional excellence, creative leadership, and lasting impact on both campus and community.
Tadlock’s recognition highlights his embodiment of Fairmont State’s vision to be a Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home. As an educator, artist, entrepreneur, and community leader, Tadlock has made a profound difference in the lives of students and residents throughout the region.
“I want to thank the office of President Davis for the nomination, and I am honored to be listed among this year’s awardees,” said Tadlock. “I hope to continue lending my skills and expertise to foster growth on both the campus and within the greater Fairmont community.”
Tadlock brings more than a decade of real-world creative experience into the classroom, having worked with clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies such as Major League Soccer, Veuve Clicquot, and Infiniti Automotive. His teaching approach blends professional relevance with mentorship, helping students prepare portfolios, price commissioned work, and build personal brands. His students have gone on to secure creative positions at universities, athletic departments, and marketing firms.
Beyond the classroom, Tadlock plays a vital role in enriching Fairmont’s cultural landscape. In 2023, he opened Two/Two/Eight, a gallery and creative space in downtown Fairmont under the Tadlocka Studios umbrella. Since its founding, the space has hosted more than 40 community-focused events, including art markets, live music, poetry readings, juried exhibitions, and youth showcases. More than 300 works of art have been exhibited, drawing attendees from across West Virginia and the Appalachian region.
Tadlock’s community impact has also been recognized locally. In 2024, he received the Main Street Fairmont Business Community Impact Award for his programming at Two/Two/Eight. He has organized charitable art exhibits benefiting organizations like United Way and HOPE, Inc., and he continues to serve on the Core Team for Cultivate Fairmont—a collaborative initiative to strengthen the region.
“Jared Tadlock is the kind of educator and community member who embodies everything we strive for at Fairmont State University. He’s a builder—not only of design portfolios and gallery walls, but of opportunities, confidence, and connections,” said Fairmont State University President Mike Davis. “Whether he’s helping a student land their first commission, curating an exhibition that brings hundreds to downtown Fairmont, or mentoring young artists searching for their voice, Jared leads with purpose and heart. His work bridges the classroom and the community in ways that are rare and deeply meaningful. He represents the very best of who we are—a university that’s a Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home. I’m incredibly proud to see him recognized, and even prouder to have him as part of our Falcon Community.”
The Generation Next: 40 Under 40 Awards Ceremony took place on Wednesday, June 18, at the Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center in Clarksburg. Fairmont State extends its congratulations to Tadlock and thanks him for his continued contributions to our campus, community, and culture.
