May 13, 2022
Update from the President
Dear Cardinal Family,
Our celebration of the class of 2022 last weekend may be over; however, the joy of Commencement still lingers. Last Saturday was the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication by the graduates. This class refused to give up when faced with trying times and endured when many had their dreams deferred by a global pandemic. I had the pleasure of watching these young men and women grow and mature, and I know that they are poised to make our world a better place. I keep thinking about the words that graduate James Brooks, who was recently baptized a Christian, offered to his class. Quoting three Bible passages, James left everyone with some powerful advice – build your lives on a solid foundation – Jesus; God’s strength is unmatched, and He will never forsake you; and finally, he said, “Life consistently tells us that we are not good enough, and I want you to know that you are good enough and loved unconditionally. Now go and secure your victory in life.” Saturday was indeed a celebration of what the Class of 2022 accomplished in the classroom and growing as individuals. It was my honor to be a part of their very special day. Congratulations again to all our graduates.
We have numerous campus improvement projects planned for the summer. The first has begun – fixing the front entrance to Swint Hall. Construction to repair the wall located outside of the Ratt, fix the planters that line the steps, repair some of the concrete, and point the mortar on the overhang above the area started this week. Unfortunately, time and weather have caused damage, and it became evident that fixing this area was a priority. Therefore, in order for the local contractor, Angelina Stone and Marble, to make the improvements, we have closed the front entrance to Swint for the next three to four weeks. Please use the doors near the Hodges Library or the ground floor entrance off the Library Plaza to access the building. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Those of us who work in the CET Building will finally see relief as we are scheduled to see the chiller unit replaced, and work will take place on the Alma Grace McDonough Center roof to eliminate the leaks to which we sometimes fall victim!
Our Cardinal Athletes continue to collect honors from the Mountain East Conference. Two Baseball team members, Designated Hitter J.R. Heavlin, and Outfielder Jack Skantze were named to the All-MEC First Team. Both these young men were outstanding offensively this year. Three more baseball players, Hayden Scudder, Jacob Murray, and Blake Vandiver were named All-MEC Honorable Mention. The Great Midwest Athletic Conference recognized two Lacrosse players. Mat Anderson was an All-GMAC First Team honoree, while teammate Mike Andersson was named to the All-GMAC Second Team. Finally, Autumn Oehlstrom of the Cardinal Softball team was selected to the All-MEC First Team.
More than 20 students and their families will be on campus next Friday for our second New Student Orientation. Like the April event, the students will have the chance to talk to current students, get their Cardinal ID cards, meet with faculty, pick up their schedules, and have their photos taken with Iggy. In addition, our Student Activities Office has some fun activities planned to help the students get to know one another and win some prizes. I look forward to meeting these new Cardinals and their families on May 20th!
Circle October 7-9 on your calendar – that’s when Homecoming and Family Weekend will be held. Homecoming is one of the most exciting times to be on campus at Wheeling! Whether you’re an alumnus, a student, faculty or staff member, or a community member, we invite you to save the dates and join the fun. This weekend will be an excellent opportunity to connect with your student(s), hear from University leadership, enjoy some tailgating, and cheer on the Wheeling Cardinals! Registration will open this summer. A full schedule of events, including home athletic games, will be announced at a later date.
Planning and executing Commencement, Baccalaureate Mass, the President’s Reception, Alumni Champagne Brunch, Honors Convocation, and the MANY other activities that took place during the past two weeks required many people’s work. To anyone who had a hand in making Commencement week a special time for our graduates – THANK YOU! The work ethic of Wheeling University’s employees is impeccable, and I appreciate that you are all team players. You go above and beyond for our students and one another!
With gratitude,
Ginny R. Favede, President
Wheeling University