December 30, 2025

Wheeling University December Update

Dear Wheeling University Community,

Wheeling University received notification from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) on Monday, December 8, 2025, that the Financial Issue designation has been removed effective immediately based on the Advisory Visit that occurred on November 13-14, 2025. The visit focused on the University’s compliance with HLC requirements. “We appreciate the role of the Higher Learning Commission and its importance to higher education,” said David Hendrickson, Wheeling University Board Chair. Dr. Dianna Vargo, Wheeling University President, added, “We are grateful to our faculty, staff, students, Board of Trustees, and the Most Reverend Mark E. Brennan for their participation and continuous support of Wheeling University.” 

Academics

The Exercise Science program received notification from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) that it is fully accredited. During a recent site visit, CAAHEP team members reviewed all aspects of the program. Click here to read more.

The Nursing program held its pinning ceremony on December 4. Nursing completers in the undergraduate and graduate programs were honored.The Doctor of Physical Therapy program awarded pins and diplomas to the doctoral students completing the program on December 7.

Admissions

Students from Brooke High School visited Wheeling University in December. The students learned about academic programs, heard about student life activities, toured the campus, and enjoyed lunch in the Benedum Room. 

Advancement/Alumni

Thank you for supporting the Wheeling University Light The Way campaign. Generous donations provide financial support to students through scholarships, academic programs, and facility updates. Click here to read more.

Athletics

Members of the Athletic Department assisted the City of Wheeling in December. Coaches, staff, and athletes removed banners from the fencing at the Fitzsimmons Family Dog Park. Catch the latest news about our Athletic teams. Click here to read more.

Campus Ministry

The talents of students were on full display at the Christmas Concert in the Chapel of Mary and Joseph on December 1. Through the leadership of Father David Griffin and the direction of Robert Troeger, Wheeling University students rang in the Christmas season with music, poems, and Bible readings. In addition to students and staff, many alumni and community members joined us for the concert. Afterwards, the campus Christmas Tree was lit and a social was held in the RATT featuring Christmas cookies, hot chocolate, and fellowship.

A special thank you to Father David and Mr. Troeger for continuing this wonderful campus tradition.

Physical Plant

After careful consideration and planning, the decision has been made to remove Whelan Hall to make way for new opportunities that will better serve our faculty, students, and future generations.

Student Affairs

The Office of Student Affairs organized the Salvation Army Angel Tree project again this year. Faculty, staff, and students participated in this wonderful project that brought much joy to many local children.Click here to read more.

The annual Late Night Breakfast was held during finals week. Students enjoyed a delicious breakfast served by administrators, staff, and coaches. 

A Christmas cookie decorating party was held in the Ratt for students. Students decorated cookies to take home for the holidays.As always, let me extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire Wheeling University Community for your support. Warm wishes for a healthy and happy New Year.

Sincerely,

Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D.

President