March 18, 2022

Update from the President

Dear Wheeling Family, 

This week, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice awarded our university nearly $540,000 to close the gap of West Virginia nursing shortages with an accelerated 16-month BSN degree completion curriculum. Governor Justice’s commitment to the expansion of nursing education programs across West Virginia will allow Wheeling University to enroll, educate, and retain nurses to address the health care needs of residents in the state. Wheeling University plans to develop an accelerated 16-month Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree completion program providing an opportunity for students who have completed an associate or bachelor’s degree in any field to earn a BSN through this accelerated degree program. Additionally, Wheeling will see the installation of a new state-of-the-art Medical Care Simulation Laboratory. The new sim lab will feature virtual anatomy tables, digital mannequins, and digitally-enabled iPad patient bedside care equipment. The grant proposal also includes a two-day summer Healthcare Career Academy to introduce the field of nursing to high school students to encourage more individuals to enter the field. Our mission calls us to serve and care for others, especially those in need. We are grateful to Governor Justice and his team for recognizing that Wheeling University has a commitment to addressing the nursing shortage and producing health care professionals grounded in the Catholic mission of cura personalis – to care for the whole person.  

Again, this year, I am asking this Wheeling family to come together to serve our campus. On Friday, April 22, the University will hold its second Laudato Si’ – our campus beautification day named after Pope Francis’s encyclical letter that calls us to ‘Care for our Common Home.’ Please circle this date on your calendar and plan to help rake leaves, plant flowers, paint curbs, pick up debris, collect trash, and other tasks, as we get ready for Commencement. Everyone’s help makes a significant impact in sprucing up our campus after winter. Last year, it was wonderful to watch our students, faculty, coaches, and staff work hand-in-hand to beautify the campus, build new friendships, and have fun. I know we will have a great turnout again in April. This community shows time, and again it embodies our mission – Cardinals are men and women for life, leadership, and service to others. 

Today, Troy Theater was filled with students seeking internships and employment from a number of local companies and organizations during an outstanding Career Fair. As part of his position as a graduate assistant with the Business program, Matthew Greenwood organized the event. This was an excellent opportunity for Matthew to use his talents to bring businesses and alumni to campus to fill open jobs. The Fair also was an outstanding way for these companies, some owned by alumni, to provide a service to current students.  

Three Cardinal athletes received accolades for standout performances last week. Wheeling’s Lacrosse team swept the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (GMAC) awards following its win over St. Thomas Aquinas. For the second week in a row, freshman goalie Joshua Wolford was the GMAC’s Defender of the Week, while sophomore Mike Anderson won his first GMAC Men’s Lacrosse Player of the Week Award. In addition, following an outstanding offensive performance during the Cardinal Softball team’s Florida trip, infielder Cassi Roman was named the Mountain East Conference Softball Player of the Week. Congratulations to Joshua, Mike, and Cassi on your well-deserved recognition. 

Monday is National Down Syndrome Day, and I am asking all members of our Cardinal Family to wear BLUE and YELLOW in support of Head Athletic Trainer Christy Schoolcraft, whose beautiful son Kai has Down Syndrome. By wearing these colors, we raise public awareness and advocate for the well-being of Kai, Christy, and all people impacted by Down Syndrome. Additionally, I would like students, faculty, and employees to gather at 11:45 a.m. Monday on Bishop Schmitt Field for a group photo – a photo that Christy can place in Kai’s keepsake book as a constant reminder of our love and support.  

Finally, Kairos 34 is this weekend at Lantz Farm. Kairos, led by Fr. Hadi Sasmita with the help of student leaders and alumni, is a beautiful way for the 14 participants to strengthen their relationship with God. Please pray for the participants that this retreat will help them grow stronger in their faith. 

Have a wonderful first weekend of Spring! 

Ginny R. Favede, President
Wheeling University