January 31, 2025
Wheeling University January Update
Dear Wheeling University Community,
The Spring 2025 semester started on Monday, January 6. The students are diligently pursuing their coursework.
ACADEMICS
The Education Program was awarded more than $10,000 from the HESS FAMILY FOUNDATION to fund the Help Enrich Someone Special (H.E.S.S.) Mentor Program for Spring 2025. The H.E.S.S. program is an educational program that enriches science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) learning for seventh grade students from Wheeling Middle School. The University’s Education students serve as the mentors. Read more here.
Wheeling University had more than 300 students named to the Fall 2024 Dean’s List. To see all the students who achieved this honor click this link.
On Monday January 27, Wheeling University hosted more than 150 faculty and students from Marshall County for their annual math competition. Once the students completed testing, all students had lunch in the Benedum Room. High school students toured the campus with representatives from the Office of Admissions.
Amber Cool, Coordinator of Career Services, is offering workshops each Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the Student Success Center. The workshops focus on job-seeking and career skills.
The textbook, The Business of Physical Therapy, included a chapter written by Dr. David Edwards, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy. The chapter offers information related to entrepreneurship and starting a business in physical therapy and sports medicine.
ADMISSIONS
The Spring 2025 semester saw a significant increase in enrollment from last year. The Office of Admissions is now planning an Accepted Student Day and a Junior Visit Day. Additionally, the Financial Aid Office is processing financial aid packages for Fall 2025 students.
ADVANCEMENT/ALUMNI
The Alumni Council met on Saturday, January 25. The group is planning for 2025 Alumni Weekend, which will be held June 20-22. The Class of 1975 will celebrate its 50 year reunion and the Class of 2000 will celebrate its 25 year reunion. The Council is accepting nominations for the Distinguished Alumni Award, Lewis Award, O’Brien Award, and Magis Award. Information about the awards can be found here. If you know of someone deserving of an award, please email the person’s name and biography to alumni@wheeling.edu.
ATHLETICS
The Women’s Rugby team was recognized by Wheeling Mayor Denny Magruder and Wheeling City Council on Tuesday, January 21. The Mayor issued a proclamation honoring the team on its National Championship. Also, the team was treated to a special dinner at TJ’s Sports Garden Restaurant. You can read more here.
The Friends of Wheeling Rugby Alumni Group sponsored the following billboard along I-70 recognizing the Women’s Rugby National Championship:
CAMPUS MINISTRY
The campus hosted a series of events to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the signing of the Bishop’s Pastoral Letter, “This Land is Home to Me.” In 1975, Bishops from across Appalachia gathered in the Sara Tracy Lounge to sign this historic letter. The Most Rev. Mark E. Brennan, the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, and the Appalachian Institute hosted presentations, a Mass, and a festival of Appalachian Music and Art to mark this historic anniversary.
PHYSICAL PLANT
The Physical Plant staff have been busy dealing with winter weather. A special thanks for keeping our students safe.
STUDENT LIFE
Events to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. were held on campus. The University hosted a student panel and a film festival as part of the Wheeling Area MLK Committee events. On MLK Day, four events were held for students and staff in Troy Theater: MLK Trivia; a presentation on martial arts from Hanski Jason Davis; a student panel; and a viewing of the movie, Selma.
Tina Tordella, Director of Counseling Services, offers Mindful Monday and Wellness Wednesday events. These events offer students tips to cope with college and life.
As always, let me extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire Wheeling University Community for your support.
Sincerely,
Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D.
President