May 20, 2022

Update from the President

Dear Wheeling University Community, 

University Headquarters, an online ranking service, has chosen Wheeling as one of the best institutions in West Virginia for bachelor’s and master’s programs and also gave the MBA programs high marks. In its recent online listing, University Headquarters named the University’s bachelor’s and master’s degree programs fifth-best in the state. It also lifted up the MBA program as the fifth-best among all colleges and universities around the Mountain State. University Headquarters is a leading independent education organization and is considered to be an unbiased source for information about institutions and degree programs. Ranking services continue to recognize that our programs provide intensive instruction within the major while educating them to be ethical and compassionate men and women who live our mission on campus and in their communities. 

The University is thrilled to share the good news of a new graduate program – a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) – and it is the only program of this type offered in the Ohio Valley. To keep up with changes in health care, the accrediting agencies for athletic training believe transitioning the degree to a graduate level will provide better educated practitioners to serve patients at all levels of the health care industry. Our program offers a 3+2 format where students can complete their undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years. For students in the University’s Exercise Science program, they can make a seamless transition into the MSAT program. Also, what sets this MSAT program apart from many is the problem-based learning model, which uses real-life scenarios to teach students to work in small groups where they focus on active learning, discussion, and collaboration. As a result, the students will develop better critical thinking, clinical judgment, and self-appraisal skills to prepare better them to care for their patients. Alumni who wish to get an advanced degree will receive a 25 percent discount on tuition. Anyone interested in learning more about the program or how to enroll, contact Dr. Melissa Bozovich, DPT, ATC, the Director of the MSAT Program, at mbozovich@wheeling.edu. 

Today, we hosted our second New Student Orientation. Wheeling’s campus looked spectacular. Hats off to Top Notch Landscaping, Nicky’s Garden Center, Maintenance, and Housekeeping for making us shine!  Incoming students and their families from several states took part in the informative and fun sessions we held throughout the day. Designed to provide students and parents with academic requirements and campus resource information, the Orientation was also a chance for the new students to meet classmates and bond. The Panel Discussion with current students and alumni allowed the new Cardinals to have an open conversation about all aspects of campus life. Students also met their faculty advisors and went over their schedules. Various university departments were available during lunch to answer questions and provide guidance as well. Students were encouraged to post photos on social media for a chance to win prizes. Our university continues to grow, and we could not be more thrilled to have the Class of 2026 join us in August. 

This week we learned of two alumni who made headlines recently. First, Jessie Vilkofsky, a women’s soccer standout from the class of 2014, was named the general manager of Major Arena Soccer League’s Dallas Sidekicks. The appointment makes Jessie the first female GM in the league’s history.  Class of 1971 graduate Bill Burke has a photo exhibit at the Wheeling-Ohio County Library through August. He was on hand during Thursday’s opening to talk about the 25 photographs that are on display. He became involved in photography during his senior year at Wheeling. His exhibit features images of Wheeling in the 1970s. For more details on Mr. Burke’s exhibit, click here. It is so wonderful to see graduates’ achievements and be able to share their accomplishments with our alumni, faculty, and staff.  

Watching the new students during orientation reminded me of when I left home to attend college. Like so many, I was nervous and afraid of what the future would hold. So, to our new Cardinals, I offer this passage from Joshua 1:9  – “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Inspiring words for all of us to live by. 

With gratitude, 

Ginny R. Favede, President
Wheeling University