News from the Nest!

June 2026 – NEWS FROM THE NEST

Thank You for Attending Alumni Weekend 2026

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who returned to campus for Alumni Weekend 2026. Your presence and warm interactions reminded all of us at Wheeling University of the strong bond we all share with our alma mater. Alumni Weekend is important because it helps us reconnect with our roots, relive wonderful memories, and strengthen lifelong relationships. We look forward to your continued support and active participation at Wheeling University.

Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D., President

Wheeling University hosted Alumni Weekend 2026 June 12-14. Alumni of all ages returned to the campus to reconnect with friends and classmates. Four individuals received awards during Saturday night's Alumni Recognition and Awards Dinner. Joining Dr. Vargo after receiving their awards are: David Hendrickson, chair of the University Board, Fr. Lewis Award winner; Lacey (Bonar) Hull, class of 2012, Fr. O'Brien Award winner; Thomas Fitzgerald, class of 1976, Pedro Arrupe Distinguished Alumni Award recipient; and Thomas Grondalski, class of 1971,St. Ignatius Distingushed Alumni Award recipient. Click the link below to see photos from the weekend!

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Hatfield Named a Top Young Professional in Pennsylvania

Emily Hatfield, a member of the class of 2014, was one of Pennsylvania's 2026 City and State Forty Under 40 top professionals.

She was recently named the Vice President of Marketing and Communications at VisitPittsburgh.

Prior to this role, she served under two West Virginia governors, including a stint as the Deputy Secretary of Tourism.

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Student Spotlight: Kaitlyn Cochran

Wheeling University graduate Kaitlyn Cochran finished her academic career at the institution with high honors and accolades. The credit for her success, she believes, should be given to the faculty.

During the May Commencement exercises, Cochran received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education degree and was recognized for earning the second highest grade point average among all graduates the Bachelor of Arts programs.

Cochran also was given the Elementary Education Student of the Year Award during the annual Honors Convocation.

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Class Notes

Class of 1991

Eric Petho has been named to the board of directors at Kids’ Chance of Ohio.

Class of 2016

Jonathan Bullock-Barrett started a new position as Technical Program Manager with Peraton.

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Upcoming Events

Philadelphia Alumni Chapter

Golf Scramble

Saturday, October 10

Paxon Hollow Golf Club, Broomall, PA

Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Saturday, September 5

10 a.m.

Troy Theater, Swint Hall

Wheeling University Campus and Athletic News

Read all the latest news at Wheeling University. The links below will provide you stories about the students, faculty and events at Wheeling University! You can also catch up on the Cardinal Athletic teams by clicking the Athletic News button.

Wheeling University Campus News

Wheeling University Athletic News