Fairmont State Welcomes Jonathan Board as Keynote Speaker for Fall 2024 Commencement; University to Award Dixie Yann with Honorary Doctorate

Fairmont State University is proud to announce two distinguished individuals participating in its upcoming Fall 2024 Commencement on December 14. Alumnus Jonathan Board, a recognized leader in law, healthcare, and community service, will return to his alma mater as the keynote speaker. Additionally, Dixie Yann will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa, for her exceptional contributions to the university, the community, and the state of West Virginia.

Jonathan Board to Deliver Keynote Address

A dedicated leader with a commitment to improving West Virginia from the inside out, Board has held leadership roles across both the public and private sectors, including Vice President of External Affairs at Mon Health and Chairman of the Marion County Chamber of Commerce. His work with the West Virginia First Foundation, which oversees opioid settlement funds, is focused on fostering long-term healing in the state.

"We are thrilled to welcome Jonathan back to Fairmont State as our keynote speaker," said President Mike Davis. "Jonathan's commitment to the betterment of West Virginia and his enduring connection to his roots here in Fairmont serve as an inspiring model for our graduates. His experience in law, healthcare, and community leadership will offer our students a powerful example of how they can positively impact their communities."

Board's career also includes leadership roles as CEO of Axios International and President of the White Hall Business Association. A graduate of Fairmont State University and the West Virginia University College of Law, Board's work reflects his dedication to improving the lives of those around him.

Dixie Yann to Receive Honorary Doctorate

During Fairmont State's 2 p.m. Commencement, Dixie Yann will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa, for her exceptional contributions to the University, the community, and the state of West Virginia.

"Dixie Yann embodies the very spirit of service and leadership that we strive to cultivate at Fairmont State," said President Mike Davis. "Her unwavering dedication to our University, her impact on the lives of countless students, and her commitment to our community and state are nothing short of extraordinary. We are deeply honored to recognize her with an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree in appreciation of her lifelong contributions."

Yann's extensive service includes roles on the Fairmont State Board of Governors and the Fairmont State Foundation, where she was instrumental in raising scholarship support, guiding the university through the COVID-19 pandemic, and overseeing a presidential search. She has also been a prominent leader in local organizations, such as the United Way of Marion County, Marion Meals on Wheels, and the Girl Scouts. Throughout her career, Yann has been a passionate advocate for youth, education, and community service, earning numerous accolades, including the Governor's Service Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Commencement Ceremony Details

Fairmont State University's Fall 2024 Commencement will take place December 14 in the Feaster Center. The first ceremony, beginning at 10 a.m., will honor graduates from the College of Business & Aviation, College of Liberal Arts, and Regents Bachelor of Arts programs. The second ceremony, at 2 p.m., will recognize graduates from the College of Education, Health & Human Performance, College of Nursing, and College of Science & Technology.

Those traveling to campus for Commencement will need to keep the altered traffic pattern in mind during their commute. The Department of Public Safety and Physical Plant will re-route traffic on the day of Commencement and will only be allowing vehicles to enter campus from the Squibb Wilson Boulevard entrance to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Officers and other attendants will be on hand to direct traffic and answer parking questions. Shuttle services will be available on campus to take guests to the Feaster Center. Shuttle pick-ups will begin one hour before each ceremony.

All graduates, university guests, and community members should expect traffic pattern and parking changes on campus and in the surrounding area. Those attending Commencement exercises are asked to remain patient when arriving on campus, as multiple ceremonies will be occurring on Saturday. Guests and graduates should consider carpooling when possible.

For more information on the Fall 2024 Commencement, including ceremony details and livestream information, visit Fairmont State Commencement.