April 30, 2021

Kayla Smith Named Valedictorian of Wheeling University’s Class of 2021

WHEELING, W.Va., April 30, 2021 – Kayla Smith of Shadyside, Ohio has been selected as valedictorian of Wheeling University’s Class of 2021 Valedictorian. Megan Mangia of Columbus, Ohio is the salutatorian of Wheeling University’s Class of 2021, University President Ginny R. Favede announced today. 

Having earned the highest grade point average in the class, Smith, an Exercise Science major will give the valedictory address during the University’s 63rd Commencement exercises. The ceremony will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, May 1 on Bishop Schmitt Field. 

President Favede said, “Kayla and Megan are wonderful examples of how Wheeling University students excel in the classroom. I am looking forward to the opportunity to celebrate the joys and triumphs of our students’ time at Wheeling, especially their perseverance through the disruptions of this past year at this year’s commencement. This is truly special and a privilege for all of us at Wheeling University.” 

Smith, the vice president of the Exercise Science Club, said, “Attending Wheeling not only gave me a great deal of knowledge in the field of exercise science, but it also provided me with knowledge about life and how important it is to help and serve others. I have had the opportunity to be taught and mentored by well-educated professors who genuinely care about the students and our well-being.” 

Following Commencement, Smith plans to work as an exercise physiologist at a rehabilitation clinic in Wheeling, and further her education in the medical field. 

Mangia, a nursing major, was selected as the salutatorian for having earned the second-highest grade point average in the class. She is a Laut Honors student and Arrupe Scholar. Mangia is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, the international honor society for nurses. Additionally, Mangia was a member of the women’s lacrosse team and a HESS mentor. 

“The University has impacted me in all aspects of my life. It solidified my sense of discipline and work ethic and has given me relationships that I will cherish for the rest of my life. The greatest 

lesson I have learned at Wheeling has been how to withstand adversity no matter how daunting the obstacles ahead may seem,” Mangia said. 

She plans to work as a critical care registered nurse at a Columbus hospital and eventually return to school to earn a certified registered nurse anesthetist degree. 

U.S. Congressman David McKinley, R-W.Va., will serve as the 2021 Commencement speaker and be awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University for his work on behalf of the people of West Virginia. 

Wheeling University’s Baccalaureate is set for 6 p.m., Friday, April 30 on Bishop Schmitt Field, with the Most Rev. Mark Brennan, bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston presiding. 

To ensure the health and safety of those attending, the University will socially distance all those in attendance and will follow recent CDC mask requirements for outdoor events. 

For those who wish to watch virtually, the event will be livestreamed here. 

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