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

Upshur County pool splashes back from repairs, continues busy summer with activities, parties and night swims

After a multi-day closure for repairs, the Upshur County Pool is reopening with a packed summer schedule featuring lessons, parties, night swims, and new event packages, positioning it for one of its busiest seasons yet.

Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur welcomes new members, new president for 2025-26

The Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur installed Sandi LaRosa as its new president for 2025-26 after a year marked by 1,500 service hours, significant membership growth, and numerous community grants.

Kyle and Judy Lane to celebrate 60th wedding anniversary this weekend

Kyle and Judy Lane will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with a gathering at Kesling Mill Lions Club on June 21, inviting friends and family to join in marking the milestone.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital welcomes Valorie Richardson as surgical services manager

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital has appointed Valorie Richardson, a veteran surgical nurse and leader, as Manager of Surgical Services, citing her extensive experience and dedication to patient-centered care.

Upshur Update: Catch up on the latest local news in our June 17, 2025 podcast

This week’s Upshur Update podcast covers a new school cellphone policy, a hospital leadership hire, local student achievements, a DUI arrest, community outreach for houseless residents, a job opening, and record attendance at the Strawberry Festival.

Mother, son both earn degrees from WVWC School of Nursing

Mother and son Valerie and Noah Jordan both graduated from West Virginia Wesleyan College’s School of Nursing during Commencement Weekend, celebrating their shared family tradition and commitment to nursing education and leadership.
Upshur County Courthouse

Buckhannon Banter: Get the local lowdown for June 17, 2025

This week’s local highlights include a scholarship for the Class of 2026, a free Soulful Energy Festival, temporary service changes at Fish Hawk Acres, and open youth soccer registration for the fall.

Celebrate the summer solstice with an evening paddle hosted by the Buckhannon River Watershed Association

The Buckhannon River Watershed Association is inviting the public to a free, all-level Summer Solstice paddle and ice cream social on June 21, promoting community and river stewardship along a gentle four-mile river stretch.

Robert John Taylor Jr.

Robert John Taylor Jr., a devoted family man, avid outdoorsman, dedicated professional, and beloved community member, passed away at 71, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and resilience.