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

Recent Fairmont State alumna advocating with University, state legislature

Fairmont State Alyssa Welling
Alyssa Welling

FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Recent Fairmont State University graduate Alyssa Welling is continuing to serve the University in her new capacity as the Presidential Scholar and Legislative Liaison. 

“Essentially, I work closely with President Martin, our General Counsel, and our legislators in Charleston to advocate on the university’s behalf,” she said. “I assist in research, administration, and communication between the three parties, as-well-as establish and nurture a working relationship between the two organizations for their mutual benefit.” 

Welling, from Ripley, W.Va., graduated in December with a degree in Health and Human Performance with minors in psychology and business. She took her new position at the beginning of the year. 

“I am pleased to welcome Ms. Welling as our Legislative and Presidential Scholar,” said President Martin. “Ms. Welling embodies the values that we hold dear at Fairmont State University.  She is smart, tenacious, and has a desire to continue our tradition of excellence.  Her help with the 2019 Legislative Session is invaluable to the institution and I am excited to continue to watch Ms. Welling’s education and future career.

While political science wasn’t Welling’s initial career path, it was something she has always enjoyed. While she was at Fairmont State, she was the student representative on the Board of Governors and will be headed to law school at Texas A&M in the fall. 

“I love American history and I don’t think ignorance is bliss when it comes to our government,” she said. “When this opportunity presented itself, I couldn’t say no. The experience and the connections I’m making are unparalleled.”

To continue furthering Fairmont State’s mission of educating West Virginians and those far beyond the state’s boarders, Welling said she’s excited to be a part of it. 

“When I think of ‘home’, I don’t think about the town where I grew up. I think of Fairmont,” she said. “This university has completely transformed me as a person and I couldn’t be more grateful. The opportunities I’ve gotten wouldn’t be available to me anywhere other than Fairmont State University. I’m so proud to be a Falcon.”

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Summer basketball

Summer league basketball wraps up week two

Week two of the Upshur County Summer Basketball League concluded with standout scoring performances and multiple games, including two forfeits by Country Roads Physical Therapy.

City council to review water board’s recommendation for new water treatment plant

The Buckhannon Water Board has recommended moving forward with a new water treatment plant and related infrastructure upgrades, sending a proposal to the city council for approval.

Gail Lovel Zickefoose

Gail L. Zickefoose, a dedicated educator, community leader, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at age 83 after a long illness, leaving a legacy of service, kindness, and devotion to others.

Buckhannon City Council Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council released the agenda for its upcoming July 15, 2025, meeting.

Upshur County Relay for Life aims to raise $35,000 for cancer research on July 19

The Upshur County Relay for Life will host its annual event July 19 at Jawbone Park, aiming to raise $35,000 for cancer research while celebrating survivors and bringing the community together through activities and remembrance ceremonies.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital team members engage in statewide healthcare leadership program

Two WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital employees were honored by the West Virginia Hospital Association Leadership Academy, with Paula Cutright graduating and Matthew Scott selected for future participation in the statewide healthcare leadership program.

Post 7 drops outings to Doddridge and Morgantown

Buckhannon Post 7 suffered consecutive road defeats, falling 10-2 to Doddridge County and 11-0 to Morgantown Post 2, dropping their season record to 2-15.

Summer basketball league begins week two

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League entered its second week with standout performances from top scorers including Cory Harper, Dalton Hamrick, Cordell Nicola, and Vinny Snuffer leading their teams across multiple games.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025.