Incoming Class of New Students Doubles at Wheeling University
‘New Cardinal Move-In Day’ Held Friday
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WHEELING -- The number of new students entering Wheeling University for this upcoming school year is more than double last year's incoming class.
On Friday, school officials welcomed 259 students during "New Cardinal Move-In Day" on campus as they prepare for classes to begin Monday.
Each year, the university sets aside one day for all its new Cardinals to move into their residence halls and take part in activities to acclimate them to college life. The day concluded with the annual New Student Convocation at Bishop Schmitt Field -- in order to follow local and state social distancing guidelines -- as the faculty and staff officially welcome the class as members of the Wheeling University family.
The class of 2024 comes to Wheeling from 32 states and 14 countries.
"New Cardinal Move-In Day is an exciting time because it marks the beginning of another academic year, and is our opportunity to welcome the students and their families to this community," Wheeling University President, Ginny Favede said.
"The numbers show that this is a diverse group, with students coming to Wheeling from across the country and the world," she added. "In addition, the figures indicate Wheeling University remains true to its mission -- to serve and educate the men and women of the Appalachian Region."
Last year's incoming class of new students was 124 after turmoil rocked the university last summer when it lost its Jesuit affiliation and the school's former president, Michael Mihalyo, was forced out. University officials are hoping upgrades to the campus and the return of popular programs, such as theology, will help to spur growth with future classes.
To welcome the new class, the university is offering a variety of activities throughout the weekend for new and returning students, said Andrew Lewis, vice president and Chief Student Services Officer.
"Our team in Student Services has put together a variety of programming to give our new students a chance to bond with one another," Lewis said. "Some of the activities during the weekend include; a flashback movie on Donahue lawn, a creekbank gathering, bingo and lawn games."
Students have not been on campus since mid-March when the coronavirus pandemic prompted virtual classes from home.