By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on July 27, 2018

FROM FAIRMONT STATE UNIVERSITY

In February, Fairmont State University entered a lease to occupy the second floor of the Greater Bridgeport Convention and Visitors Bureau in Charles Pointe. The University's vision to be able to offer more options for nontraditional students in Harrison County through the leased space is coming to life.

Dr. Richard Harvey, provost and vice president of academic affairs, said there are so many opportunities on the horizon with this space.

"We are going to do degree completion programs here-Fast track, primarily online," he said. "People might wonder why, with such a wonderful space, are we focusing on online opportunities. But this is going to be a hub, a place to come together," he said. "We will have learning pods and those kinds of things to enhance our student's online courses."

This will give people who've attended college but haven't graduated a chance to complete those degrees, Harvey said. While the university already offers a Regents Bachelor of Arts degree they will be offering even more starting with a degree in strategic leadership.

"This is just a great space, the location is accessible, visible and there's plenty of parking," he said. "We'll be able to work a lot with United Hospital Center and FBI CJIS."

Project Manager Stephanie Slaughbaugh said the project is still on schedule with contractor Veritas. The final completion date is near the end of September.

The space includes an open classroom with independent learning pods and group study areas, a computer lab, a large classroom and conference room, a smaller classroom, two offices, an independent learning lab, kitchenette with seating, lobby, and storage room.