October 31, 2025
President’s October Update
Dear Wheeling University Community,
On Sunday, October 5, the Wheeling University Center for Service was dedicated to Father James A. O’Brien, S.J. Father O’Brien’s nephew, David O’Brien, class of 1982, cut the ribbon to commemorate the Father James A. O’Brien, S.J., Center for Service. The Center recognizes Father O’Brien’s lifetime of service to Wheeling University and to the people of Appalachia. To read more about the dedication, click here.
Homecoming Weekend was filled with athletic games, activities for families, and events for students. During halftime of the Cardinal Football game, the Homecoming Court was introduced, and seniors Brayden Scott and Caitlin Oltman were crowned Homecoming King and Queen. A Homecoming Dance was held for the students at River City Restaurant & Banquets in downtown Wheeling.
Academics
Faculty and staff are reading the book, The Go-Giver, which is aligned with the mission of Wheeling University. This month, the book study was led by Shawna Safreed, Director of Education Programs.
The Business Department hosted a “Lunch with a CPA” in the Benedum Dining Hall. Students received professional advice from local Certified Public Accountants, Gary Glessner, Jayatee Herron, and Jamie Shaw.
Eighteen students received their white coats during the Nursing White Coat Ceremony. This ceremony marks the entry into the nursing profession and the start of clinical training. In addition to receiving their coats, their hands were blessed by Father David Griffin, Director of Campus Ministry.
Admissions
There has been nearly a 40 percent increase in Doctor of Physical Therapy applications for the 2026 Cohort. Applications will be accepted through the beginning of May 2026.
Advancement/Alumni
Alumni events were held in Philadelphia and Morgantown. The annual golf scramble in Philadelphia supports the Father Charles Currie, S.J., Philadelphia Alumni Scholarship. Following the Wheeling University Men’s Basketball scrimmage against West Virginia University, alumni, families, and friends attended a reception. More than 100 guests had the opportunity to meet the Wheeling University coaches and players.
Athletics
As part of Family and Homecoming Weekend, the Athletic Department inducted nine individuals and one team in the 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame. To read more about the inductees, click here.
New graphics along the front desk of the McDonough Center now greet all those entering the athletic facility.
Local children participated in the Wheeling University Second Annual Truck or Treat event. Members of the athletic teams handed out candy to the children.
Campus Ministry
The Catholic Committee of Appalachia hosted the “A Healthy Future for This Land” conference on October 25 at the Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center in Pittsburgh. More than 100 clergy, religious officials, university officials, and friends from the Appalachia region joined together to have dialogue about the land and labor of the region as they relate to the Appalachian Pastoral Letter, “This Land is Home to Me.” Bishop Mark E. Brennan gave opening remarks followed by music provided by Tom Breiding, Appalachian Institute Coordinator at Wheeling University. Rev. Walter Jagela and Mr. Chad Carter, members of the Board of Trustees, Kelly Klubert, Vice President of Advancement and Dr. Vargo attended the conference.
Physical Plant
The Physical Plant Staff completed work orders to transition for upcoming colder weather.
Student Affairs
The Office of Student Affairsis providing students with opportunities to explore the city of Wheeling and the region. Shuttles are being offered to Wheeling Centre Market and The Highlands. During Fall break, students visited Coopers Rock State Forest in Bruceton, West Virginia.
Students participated in several Halloween events including an Oktoberfest in the Ratt and a very competitive Pumpkin Carving Contest.
As always, let me extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire Wheeling University Community for your support.
Sincerely,
Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D.
President