Chad Riley One of Two Guest Speakers Lined Up for Fairmont State Commencement Ceremonies

The Feaster Center will come alive with celebration and Falcon pride on Saturday, May 17, as Fairmont State University hosts its Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies. 

?”Commencement is a symbolic moment in the life of Fairmont State,” said President Mike Davis. “It is a time to reflect on the remarkable journey our students have taken and to celebrate their accomplishments with their families, faculty, and community. I look forward to honoring graduates’ hard work and the bright futures that await them.” 

The first ceremony begins at 10 a.m., honoring graduates from the College of Education, Health & Human Performance, the College of Nursing, and the College of Science & Technology. Later that day, at 3 p.m., the University will recognize graduates from the College of Business & Aviation, the College of Liberal Arts, and the Regents Bachelor of Arts program. 

Chad M. Riley, a proud third-generation graduate of Fairmont State University, exemplifies dedication to both his alma mater and the state of West Virginia. While pursuing his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technology, Riley commuted to campus and worked his way through college. Today, he serves as Vice President and executive leader at The Thrasher Group, where he began his career as a construction inspector. 

With nearly three decades of experience, Riley has led transformative infrastructure projects across West Virginia—many of which have impacted Fairmont State’s campus directly. He is a strong advocate for local talent, frequently hiring Fairmont State graduates, and has served on both the Fairmont State Alumni Association and Foundation boards. Riley lives in Harrison County near Shinnston with his wife, Shelley. Together, they are the proud parents of Chase and his wife Hanna, Alyssa, Ashlyn, and Addison. 

During the afternoon ceremony, attendees will hear from Dr. J. Robert Baker, whose legacy at Fairmont State is rooted in decades of academic leadership and student mentorship. He dedicated nearly 30 years of service to Fairmont State University, shaping generations of students through teaching, scholarship, and service. After early education with the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Dr. Baker earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English and theology at the University of Notre Dame, later returning to complete his Ph.D. in 1993. 

Dr. Baker joined the Fairmont State faculty in 1994 and held numerous leadership roles, including Director of the Honors Program (2000–2020) and Chair of the Department of Language and Literature (2008–2016). He twice served as Dean of the Governor’s Honors Academy during his time at Fairmont State. His impact extended nationally through roles with the National Collegiate Honors Council and editorial boards, and he has been honored with numerous awards for teaching, advising, and innovation. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Baker volunteered with the Soup Opera in Fairmont for more than 20 years and remains an active member of the Iris Murdoch Society. 

Commencement Day Information

Tickets are not required for the ceremonies; however, seating is limited. With other events happening in the area, guests are encouraged to plan their travel and book hotel accommodations in advance. 

Guests attending Commencement should enter and exit the Feaster Center through the top floor. Graduates will enter on the first floor and exit on the second floor, where they will reunite with family and friends after the ceremony. Graduates should arrive at least 45 minutes prior to the start of their ceremony. 

Please note that a temporary traffic pattern will be in place on Commencement Day. To ensure a smooth flow of vehicles, all traffic must enter campus via the Squibb Wilson Boulevard entrance. Staff from the Department of Public Safety and the Physical Plant will be on-site to manage traffic and parking. 

Public Safety officers and parking attendants will be available throughout campus to assist with directions and answer any questions. Shuttle service will begin one hour before each ceremony to transport guests to the Feaster Center. 

Graduates, guests, and community members should prepare for changes to traffic and parking both on campus and in the surrounding area. With multiple ceremonies scheduled for Saturday, we appreciate your patience and cooperation during arrival and departure. Carpooling is strongly encouraged to help minimize congestion. 

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For full Commencement details, visit: 

Editor’s Note: Top photo of Riley and bottom photo of Baker courtesy of FSU.

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