May 5, 2023
Update from the President
Dear Wheeling University Family,
The University community spent this week honoring the members of the Class of 2023 and preparing to celebrate their achievements at Commencement.
Thursday evening, we recognized the graduates during the Honors Convocation. Academic honors and service awards were presented to those individuals who excelled in the classroom and in service to others. Faculty and administrators handed out more than 30 awards during the convocation. Salutatorian Amanda Keister, a Nursing major who had the second highest grade point average among undergraduates, addressed her fellow students, faculty, staff, and parents during this event. Our alumni hosted a champagne brunch this morning, toasted the graduates on their success, and welcomed them into the alumni association. Students, parents, faculty, and staff gathered at 5 p.m. Friday to celebrate Baccalaureate, which provided us an opportunity for reflection and prayer before Saturday’s revelry. Following Baccalaureate, the University community gathered at a reception for the graduates and their families.
Tomorrow’s Commencement Ceremony is the final celebration for the Class of 2023. We are thrilled that West Virginia Governor Jim Justice will deliver this year’s Commencement address. His unwavering support of this University and our students is why we chose him to speak to the class. And to no one’s surprise, Babydog, will be by the Governor’s side at the ceremony. Also at Saturday’s Commencement, Kimbria Lance, a Psychology major from Fowler, Michigan, will give the valedictory address. Kimbria finished her academic career with a 3.97 grade point average and was on the Dean’s List every semester. Commencement is a sentimental time for everyone. We are excited about what each student has achieved, but we are saddened that we must say goodbye to this class. The Class of 2023 accomplished so much over the past four years, and will take with them great memories and lasting friendships. While Saturday may be the end of one chapter, they now begin a new era – joining the Wheeling University alumni family. The front gate is always open and we hope you return home often.
On Tuesday, Admission’s team members, Jennifer Board, Cameron Gibson, Tabitha Kinneer, and I traveled to Scio, Ohio for the 43rd Annual Ruritan Awards Dinner. I was honored to be the guest speaker at this event, where we celebrated the academic achievements of students in grades 9 – 12. The team and I were able to make connections with high school guidance counselors and the school district’s senior leadership – in order to promote Wheeling University to students in this region. We look forward to working with these school officials to advance our recruiting efforts in this area.
Alumnus Kevin Foy ’77 reached out to me with information about the need for Capitol Police officers in Washington, D.C. He noted that such job opportunities might not be on the radar of our students, and he encourages anyone who might have an interest to seek additional information on the U.S. Capitol Police website. According to Mr. Foy, these officers protect members of Congress and congressional buildings, as well as other important duties. He noted that employment for such positions do not require a degree specific to criminal justice, law or related courses of study. I wish to thank Mr. Foy for alerting us to this career opportunity in our Nation’s Capital and hope students interested will inquire further about this employment opportunity.
With the end of the academic year upon us, our Mass schedule at the Chapel of Mary and Joseph will change starting this weekend. Beginning May 7, the Sunday Mass time will be at 10 a.m. There will not be a Sunday night Mass or daily Masses offered on campus throughout the summer.
As another academic year comes to a close, I offer my gratitude to our faculty, coaches, administrators, and staff who worked so hard throughout the year. Through your efforts, this University is able to carry out our mission to teach students for life, leadership, and service. To the Class of 2023, we wish each graduate great success as you embark on your next adventure! Go forth and let your light shine!
With deep gratitude,
Ginny R. Favede
President, Wheeling University