Michael K. Davis, Ph.D.

Dr. Michael “Mike” Davis began his tenure as the 27th President of Fairmont State University in July 2023 and immediately committed himself to positioning Fairmont State as the best regional university in West Virginia.

Using insights he gathered from listening to countless constituents, including students, faculty and staff, community members, business partners, international partners, and state legislators, he guided the creation of a robust strategic vision. This vision—for the University to become a Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home—will guide Fairmont State throughout the next decade as it seeks to educate engaged citizens in a community distinguished by opportunity, growth, and achievement and delivers transformational impact for West Virginia and beyond.

Under President Davis’ guidance, the Fairmont State University Day of Giving set fundraising records in each of his first two years. He created new ways for Fairmont State to engage with local communities, like the Presidential Speaker Series and community movie nights. He also changed the way the University engages with state lawmakers. During Fairmont State’s annual Day at the Capitol, President Davis placed emphasized demonstrating the University’s importance to West Virginia and ensured that Fairmont State continues to be part of vital legislative discussions concerning the state’s future. He has initiated studies to ensure equitable pay across the University and implemented further benefits to improve employees’ lives. Finally, President Davis enhanced students’ academic and life experience at Fairmont State and created new academic programs, new internship and externship opportunities, and a more vibrant campus experience.

Prior to assuming the leadership role at Fairmont State, Dr. Davis was Chief of Staff at James Madison University (JMU). In that role, Dr. Davis managed JMU’s presidential priorities and directed matters of policy and institutional importance, including strategic planning, institutional research, and accreditation. He was also regularly involved in external relations, crisis management and strategic communication, alumni engagement and advancement, diversity and inclusion leadership, fundraising, and fiscal management.

President Davis earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies from the University of Georgia. He also holds a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication and Rhetorical Studies from Syracuse University. His academic research interests center on women in the Civil Rights Movement, debate pedagogy, presidential rhetoric, and argumentation and advocacy.

President Davis believes that higher education is fueled by relationships. His interactions with students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, legislators, and friends of the university foster teamwork, regularly propel innovative partnerships, and position Fairmont State University as a Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home.