Fairmont State University’s Dr. Brian Selmeski Selected for National Executive Leadership Academy

"At a time of significant change across the higher education landscape, programs like ELA play a critical role in supporting and preparing the next generation of institutional leaders," said Charles L. Welch, American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) president and CEO. "Through our partnership, we are proud to invest in leaders who are deeply committed to their campuses and communities."

ELA is delivered through a collaborative partnership between AASCU, the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), and the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI). Together, these organizations provide a comprehensive experience focused on leadership development, mentorship, and professional networking. Fairmont State University's Chief of Staff, Dr. Brian Selmeski, has been selected, through a competitive process, to join higher education leaders from across the country at the Executive Leadership Academy (ELA). This year's cohort includes 36 executive leaders, from a diverse range of academic institutions, who are preparing to advance into presidential roles.

"I am proud that Brian was selected for the Executive Leadership Academy - this reflects both his exceptional leadership and his deep commitment to advancing higher education's mission," said Fairmont State President Mike Davis. "This opportunity will further strengthen his ability to help guide our university through a period of growth and transformation. Participation in programs like ELA ensures that Fairmont State remains connected to national conversations shaping the future of higher education."

Selmeski, a former U.S. Army officer, earned his doctorate from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He brings 25 years of experience in higher education, with a track record of developing and implementing transformative initiatives. As Chief of Staff, Selmeski oversees presidential priorities and functions of institutional importance to ensure successful execution of the University's mission. These include strategic planning, implementation, and assessment; government and board relations; communication, marketing, and creative services; and institutional research, effectiveness, and accreditation.

"I deeply appreciate President Davis for nominating me to attend the Executive Leadership Academy and AASCU for giving me the opportunity to learn alongside such an accomplished group of peers from across the country," said Selmeski. "This program will provide valuable opportunities to further sharpen my leadership skills, gain broaderperspectives, and bring back ideas that support Fairmont State's strategic priorities. I look forward to building connections and exploring innovative approaches that will help our university become a truly Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home."

ELA is a renowned program that prepares experienced administrators for chief executive roles. It began with the first of two in-person seminars in Washington, DC on June 15-16. The sessions brought cohort members together for an intensive learning experience led by current and former presidents, along with subject matter experts addressing key issues shaping higher education today. Since its inception in 2009, ELA has built a strong pipeline of leaders, with many alumni advancing to top positions nationwide. Participants gain the strategic insight and adaptability needed to navigate the evolving demands of higher education. More information is available on the AASCU program page.

Participants Selected by AASCU

• Guy-Alain Amoussou, Bowie State University
• Travis Chambers, Fitchburg State University
• Nathan Cochran, Harris-Stowe State University
• Minnette Ellis, University of North Alabama
• Karen Ferrer-Muniz, University of Massachusetts Boston
• Justin Gammage, California State University, Dominguez Hills
• Keith Humphrey, University of Northern Colorado
• Lara Luetkehans, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
• Michael Mancini, Thomas Edison State University
• Chuck McKinnon, Fayetteville State University
• Jay Neal, University of Houston Sugar Land
• Christine Reed Davis, University of North Carolina Wilmington
• Matthew Robison, Georgia Gwinnett College
• Brian Selmeski, Fairmont State University
• Deborah Thien, California State University, Bakersfield
• Sarah Villarreal, California State University, San Marcos
• Melissa Wargo, Western Carolina University
• Shoshana Zeisman-Pereyo, Portland State University

Participants Selected by CIC

• Kimberly Battle-Walters Denu, Westmont College
• Stephanie Cosner, Simmons University
• Chris Boniforti, Lynn University
• Mollie Cecere, Carlow University
• Stephannie DeLong, Southwestern College
• James Gaddy, Albright College
• Norman Golar, Stillman College
• Meredith Green, Furman University
• Louis Guard, Hobart and William Smith Colleges
• Andrew Kerkhoff, University of Puget Sound
• Todd McDorman, Wabash College
• Heather Moore Roberson, Allegheny College
• James Pillar, Monmouth University
• Ahmed Radwan, University of Detroit Mercy
• Alexandra Socarides, Emerson College
• Ted Song, John Brown University
• Tonya Wagner, Viterbo University
• Joseph Wiegand, Reinhardt University