Mike Geibel has stepped into the role of permanent dean of students at Wheeling University. (Photo Provided)

When Mike Geibel came to Wheeling University in October 2019, he took a successful men’s rugby program and built it into a two-time national championship team. In his new role as Dean of Students, Geibel has a plan to take the student life experience to new heights.

Wheeling University President Dianna Vargo named Geibel the Dean of Students on July 1.

“Mike is a respected member of the Wheeling University community. As our dean, Mike will help foster a sense of community and togetherness among the students,” Vargo said.

Geibel had been filling in as dean since March. While a student at Eckerd College in Florida, he worked in Student Affairs and continued to work at his alma mater following graduation. He held two different positions at the college — campus activities coordinator and coordinator of club sports and recreation.

He believes his previous experience will be beneficial to expand the campus life opportunities across the university.

One goal is to offer activities every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, he noted.

“By offering more on-campus events such as game nights. dances, intramurals and faculty-student socials, we can make the campus experience better for all,” Geibel said.

Also, he would like to build on longstanding traditions, such as Last Blast.

Geibel explained Student Affairs also must offer students ways to engage in the greater Wheeling area.

“I want to offer shuttle rides to places like the Highlands, so students have an easy way to go shopping or just enjoy some time with friends off-campus,” he said. “We also want to look for ways to bring some of the local culture to campus for our students to enjoy.”

He said he would like for students to be active in planning and suggesting new activities to offer.

“If someone is a yoga instructor, maybe they would like to offer a class. We want the students to suggest activities that we can offer on campus.”

As the Dean, Geibel will oversee Residence Life, Student Government, the Campus Activities Board, Campus Security and the Counseling Center.

Geibel earned a bachelor of arts degree in international relations and global affairs from Eckerd. He also has an associate’s degree in political science from Georgia Highlands College. Before coming to Wheeling, Geibel worked as the marketing and events coordinator at TechData while coaching the women’s rugby team at Eckerd.