January 12, 2024

Update from the President

Dear Wheeling University Community,

The campus buzzed with renewed energy as students returned on Sunday, eager to embark on the second half of the academic year. Classes commenced on Monday, seamlessly following a smooth welcome process for our newest Cardinals. In the McDonough Center Lobby, our one-stop shop provided a convenient and efficient experience, granting them room keys, Cardinal Cards, class schedules, and assistance with any financial aid or billing concerns. We welcomed nineteen exceptional new students this semester, hailing from diverse backgrounds across the nation and abroad. We thank our dedicated Admissions team and coaches for their tireless efforts in recruiting these promising individuals. As we embark on this exciting new chapter, I extend my warmest wishes for a successful Spring Semester to all our students and faculty. May it be filled with intellectual engagement, personal growth, and lasting connections.

Last week, the University welcomed nearly 150 students from Marshall County Schools to campus for their County Math Day Competition. Wheeling University, through our continued partnership with Marshall County Schools, opened classrooms and computer labs inside Acker Science Center for the students to participate in the Math Day Competition. This was an excellent opportunity for these students to participate in this competition and visit the Wheeling University campus to learn more about earning an advanced degree.

On Monday, January 15th, the Cardinal community will gather together in the Troy Theatre for a special event celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Since my arrival, this event has been held separately from our campus as part of the Wheeling community MLK celebration and march. Whereas it was a worthwhile event, my concern grew over the years that the very people who most needed to benefit from Dr. King’s remarkable legacy were not a part of the event. I am grateful to the wonderful group who came together to plan this for our campus community. This presentation honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr will be a time for our campus community to reflect on his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the inherent dignity of every human being. King strongly believed that education and social justice go hand-in-hand. At Wheeling University, we strive to develop critical thinkers and empathetic students who will grow up to be our future leaders. Dr. King’s dream of justice, equality, and understanding forms the very core of our mission. This student-led event is an opportunity to show our students that their path towards becoming adults who live his legacy starts here, with empathy, action, and a commitment to positive change.

Please mark your calendars for Saturday, February 17th, and join the university in retiring Highsmith’s iconic #24 jersey as a testament to his electrifying play and unwavering dedication to Cardinal basketball during a pre-game ceremony before the Cardinals take on Frostburg State.

This isn’t just about a jersey; it’s about recognizing a true Wheeling legend. Back in his Cardinals days, Highsmith was a force to be reckoned with, leading us to a Mountain East Championship in the 2017-18 season. His talent and drive then propelled him onto the professional stage, where he honed his skills in the NBA G-League with the Delaware Blue Coats before making his NBA debut with the Philadelphia 76ers. Now, he’s lighting up the court for the Miami Heat, showcasing the Wheeling spirit on the biggest basketball stage. I invite you to join us as we unveil Highsmith’s banner, forever etching his name and #24 into the Cardinals’ history books. It’s a chance to celebrate the extraordinary journey of a Wheeling champion.

I’m excited to announce that after four long years, Kelly Klubert and I will be back on the road again next weekend for an alumni gathering in the Philadelphia area on January 20th. Join us at the lovely home of Marilou Doughty in West Norriton, PA, at 7 p.m. that evening. This will be a wonderful opportunity to catch up with those attending while giving me the ch to fill in our alumni on all the great things happening at their alma mater. Any alumni who plan to attend but still need to make an RSVP, please email kklubert@wheeling.edu.I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to this incredible Wheeling family – employees, alumni, students, donors, and friends – who helped the University achieve so much in 2023. As we embark on a new year, I am confident that through our collective efforts and unwavering commitment, this University will continue to prosper. May the new year bring each member of this community many blessings.

With gratitude,

Ginny R. Favede 
President, Wheeling University