July 19, 2024

Wheeling University July Update

Dear Wheeling University Community,

A special thank you to our alumni who joined us for a successful Alumni Weekend. Alumni shared memorable experiences from the past and enjoyed seeing their friends. Our Board Chair, Mr. David Hendrickson, and Board member Mr. Chad Carter ’99, gave alumni an update about the University. They encouraged alumni to remain involved in University activities. 

Academics

Dr. H. Lawrence Jones, former Director of Teacher Preparation Programs and current adjunct, will receive the Dr. Lee Jones Patron of Youth Award during the YMCA’s Light of the Valley luncheon on August 21. The luncheon will be held at the Wheeling Park White Palace. Dr. Jones will be recognized for his life-long dedication to helping children in the Ohio Valley. The Wheeling University Community offers our congratulations to Dr. Jones on this well-deserved award. 

When students return in August, they will find that some academic programs have relocated. The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), the Athletic Training, and the Exercise Science programs will now be in Donahue Hall. The DPT faculty offices will be located on the Acker Bridge. The Athletic Training and Exercise Science faculty will utilize offices on the first floor of Donahue Hall. Additionally, the DPT lab and free clinic will be in Kirby Hall.  

Admissions

The Admissions Office welcomed a new graduate admissions representative, Jessica Holubeck.  Ms. Holubeck will work with students applying to our graduate and doctoral programs. 

The Financial Aid Office welcomed two new counselors, Hunter Davis and Breann Adkins.  

Advancement/Alumni

The Wheeling University community congratulates long-time Pittsburgh Steelers’ employee Bob McCartney ’72, who is a recipient of the Pro Football Hall of Fame “Awards of Excellence.” Bob’s tenure with the Steelers spans 51 years. To read more about Bob’s recognition, click here. 

The dates for the 2025 Alumni Weekend are June 20-22. If you are interested in helping to plan and organize your class celebration, then email alumni@wheeling.edu.

Athletics

Nic Kjaerholt has been named our Assistant Athletic Director. He previously served as the University’s Director of the Student Success Center and Director of International Admissions. Read more about Nic’s appointment here.

Jose Oltra, Rua Karimazondo, and Alex Nyamunda members of our national championship rugby team were named NCR Scholastic All-Americans. It is the third straight season that members of the squad were recognized by NCR for their academic achievements.

Campus Ministry

Father David Griffin will begin serving the Wheeling University community beginning August 8 as the Director of Campus Ministry. He is currently serving as the Director of Community and Campus Ministry at Penn State University. Additionally, he has served at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA, as the Director of Campus Ministry and an administrator at an all-boy’s Catholic high school. He will be living in campus housing and will be available to minister to the students’ spiritual needs. Father David enjoys sports and looks forward to cheering on the Cardinals.  

Physical Plant

Ignatius Hall received updates. The façade and bricks were cleaned by Angelina Stone and Marble. Some new flooring and lights were installed by our physical plant staff. This work has made a significant impact on the appearance of the building, both inside and out. 

Kalkreuth Roofing is in the process of replacing a portion of the roof on Swint Hall. 

Student Affairs

A New Student Orientation will be held on Monday, July 29. This is a day for members of the incoming class to receive their schedules, meet with university departments, finalize financial aid packages, and meet with their academic advisors. 

The Residence Life and Student Activities staff are busy preparing to welcome new and returning students to campus. Housing assignments are being finalized and opening events are being scheduled. 

Once again, thank you to our supportive alumni whose continued involvement benefits our students and their pursuit of Catholic education at Wheeling University.

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

Sincerely,