Fairmont State University announces new Board of Governors appointments

FAIRMONT, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Fairmont State University’s Board of Governors has announced changes in membership, including the addition of new recently appointment Board members.

The news follows the conclusion of service for three members of the Board of Governors at the onset of July, including for Board Chairman Rusty Hutson, who will be joining the board of Governors for West Virginia University.

“With my appointment ending here, the Governor has asked me to join the West Virginia University Board of Governors ,” said Hutson. “The way we’ve handled challenges during my time on the Board brings me immense pride. Between COVID and the presidential search, this board is absolutely leaving University in a better position.”

Also departing the Board are two-term member Deborah Prezioso and Jay Puccio, the latter of whom was first appointed in 2017.

In the wake of these developments, the Board of Governors for Fairmont has elected Kevin Rogers as Secretary, Jason Pizatella as Vice Chair, and Jennifer Kinty as Board Chair.

“I am very proud to serve my alma mater as Chair of the Board of Governors. This is a pivotal time in higher education and the decisions we make are more important than ever,” Kinty said. “I look forward to meeting these challenges, planning for a bright future, and ensuring that Fairmont State remains the best regional university in West Virginia.”

The board vacancy will reportedly be filled by three individuals appointed by Governor Jim Justice, including Lance Puccio, Drew Paton, and John Schirripa, all of whom will participate in their first complete Board meeting at the end of August.

“Fairmont State’s Board of Governors oversees the operation of the best regional university in West Virginia. And the new fiscal year brings changes to Board leadership and membership,” said Fairmont State in a statement. “The institution’s vision, however, continues – to make Fairmont State University a ‘Great Place to Learn, to Work and to Call Home.”