April 30, 2021

Update from the President

April 30, 2021

Dear Wheeling Community, 

This weekend, we will celebrate the class of 2021 during Saturday’s Commencement ceremony. It is our time, as a community, to honor this extraordinary class of graduates for their academic achievements and the completion of their degrees.  

It is my pleasure to announce that Kayla Smith of Shadyside, Ohio is the class of 2021 Valedictorian. Having earned the highest grade point average in the class, Kayla, an Exercise Science major, will give the valedictory address during tomorrow’s Commencement exercises. Megan Mangia of Columbus, Ohio is the Class of 2021 Salutatorian. Megan, a nursing major, was selected as the Salutatorian for having earned the second-highest grade point average in the class. Kayla and Megan are wonderful examples of how Wheeling University students excel in the classroom. I look forward to hearing Kayla’s valedictory address and the message she will deliver on Saturday. 

U.S. Congressman David B. 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. 

As a reminder, here is the schedule for tonight and tomorrow’s events:  

• Baccalaureate begins tonight at 6 p.m. on Bishop Schmitt Field. Students and faculty are asked to line up in the McDonough Center beginning at 5:15 p.m. Graduates are asked to wear their gowns and honor cords only — no caps or hoods are to be worn for this event.  
• Commencement is at 11:30 a.m. on Bishop Schmitt Field. Graduates should in the McDonough Center no later than 10:30 a.m. to begin lining up for the ceremony. 
• Prestige Photography will be available inside the McDonough Center to take individual photos from 9:45 to 11 a.m. Saturday. No appointment needed – photos will be taken at no charge and will be viewable online for ordering. 
• Baccalaureate and the Commencement ceremony can be viewed online for those who cannot attend. Simply click the names above to view the video of each event! 
• A complete list of details for both events, as well as the safety protocols for the weekend, can be found on the website also. 

I am excited to announce that Wheeling University will begin a phased reopening of the campus to the public – in a limited capacity. Members of the public can now enjoy The Ratt, Starbucks, and Bishop Hodges Library Plaza. In fact, this Friday and Saturday graduates and their families are welcome in each of these areas. Additionally, members of the public can now attend Sunday Mass in the Chapel of Mary and Joseph. Seating is limited to half the normal capacity, and anyone attending Mass is required to wear a mask. 

Class of 2021, while this may feel like the end of your connection to Wheeling University – it is really just the beginning! On Saturday, Wheeling University will welcome you to the alumni family! There are many ways for you to stay involved at your alma mater – help us recruiting future Cardinals, attend alumni activities in your hometown, network with alumni in your area and become involved in the Alumni Council. Wheeling University will always be your HOME and you will always be a part of the Cardinal Family! I hope you will come back and visit often! May you continue to let your light shine!

Ginny R. Favede, President
Wheeling University