August 1, 2025

President’s July Update

Dear Wheeling University Community,

The 2025 Ohio Valley Athletic Conference All-Star Football Camp was held once again on the campus of Wheeling University during the week of July 14. More than 225 players, coaches, band members, queens, and cheerleaders participated in events that culminated with the Friday evening pep rally on Bishop Schmitt Field. 

Also, during the week of July 28, GenOn Ministries held its annual Youth Summit. This camp provides young people with the opportunity to grow in their faith and connection to God. 

Academics

Nancy Weeks, an adjunct in the Education Department, will serve as the Disabilities Coordinator for Wheeling University. Ms. Weeks brings a wealth of experience to this position. She worked as a high school psychologist in Belmont County, Ohio, public school system for more than 30 years. Read more about Ms. Weeks here.

The Laut Honors Program returned during the 2024-2025 school year under the leadership of Susan Hvizdos, Mathematics Instructor. The students read the book, Outliers, by Malcolm Gladwell. Other activities included guest speakers from academic areas and community leaders.

Admissions

The enrollment of new students for the Fall 2025 semester is on track to be among the largest in the past decade. Jennifer Board, Vice President of Enrollment, and the Admission Representatives will assist with student move in days throughout the month of August.

Advancement/Alumni

On Monday, August 18, alumni are invited to attend Mass in the Chapel of Mary and Joseph, the University Update/Employee Recognition in Troy Theater, and Happy Hour in the RATT as part of Opening Week for faculty and staff. Alumni who plan to attend are asked to RSVP to alumni@wheeling.edu.

Athletics

Athletic Director Carrie Hanna announced the hiring of three new coaches. Those individuals who were selected as Head Coaches include: Ella Skeens, Women’s Basketball; Max Hamilton, Men’s Rugby; and Greg Schmitt, Cross Country and Track.

The McDonough Center lobby received a facelift. New graphics now appear along the panel near the pool and on the windows looking into the Performance Gym. 

You can read all of the Athletic Department news here.

Campus Ministry

Sunday Masses will be held at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. starting on Sunday, August 24. Daily Masses will be held at 12:10 p.m. Monday – Friday starting on Monday, September 1. 

Father David Griffin, Director of Campus Ministry, is organizing the Campus Ministry Student Council. The Council will consist of representatives from each athletic team, commuters, and international students.

Physical Plant

The Physical Plant staff is painting dorm rooms and classrooms in preparation for the new semester. The computer lab is being updated to a state-of-the-art technology center. Also, new roofing is being installed on sections of the McDonough Center. 

Student Affairs

Mike Geibel has been named as the Dean of Students, and Cameron Gibson has taken over as the Director of Residence Life.

The Office of Student Affairs is planning the ribbon cutting ceremony for the reopening of the RATT with students on Saturday, August 30. 

As always, let me extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire Wheeling University Community for your support.

Sincerely,

Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D.

President