May 2026 - NEWS FROM THE NEST

Wheeling University will recognize the chair of the Board of Trustees and three alumni during its annual Alumni Recognition and Awards Dinner on Saturday, June 13.

Awards will be bestowed on alumni Thomas Grondalski, class of 1971, Thomas Fitzgerald, class of 1976, and Lacey (Bonar) Hull, class of 2012, as well as David Hendrickson, Chair of the University’s Board of Trustees, during Alumni Weekend 2026.

Registration to attend Alumni Weekend is open through June 8 at noon. To make a reservation go to https://wheeling.edu/alumni-weekend/

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Schroer Group, Gerald Schroer, Jr., gave the Commencement address to the class of 2026 on Saturday, May 9. He also was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. Schroer congratulated the class of 2026, while outlining key life lessons on integrity, friendship, failure, faith and understanding. He said these principles will help guide the graduates throughout their lives.

Student Spotlight: Andy Schmidt, Co-Valedictorian

Andy Schmidt of St. Clairsville, Ohio was a Co-Valedictorian for the Class of 2026. Schmidt graduated with Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Sports Management. During his four years at Wheeling University, he was a member of the men’s soccer team and the Laut Honors Society. “My four years at Wheeling University have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. Not only has this experience pushed me to strive for academic and personal excellence, but it has also allowed me to build strong relationships that will last a lifetime,” Schmidt said.

Student Spotlight: Cameron Zinn, Co-Valedictorian

Cameron Zinn of McArthur, Ohio was a Co-Valedictorian of the Class of 2026. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. “The past four years have significantly shaped my personal and professional growth,” Zinn said. Through the nursing program, I’ve gained the knowledge and skills to provide safe, compassionate care, along with the confidence to enter this profession. The strong sense of community and the relationships I built with my classmates and professors will have a lasting impact. I will always be grateful for the experiences and memories that have helped shape who I am today.”

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Teresa Busick

Dr. Teresa Busick, Program Lead for the Bachelor of Science in Psychology program, is the recipient of the 2026 Rev. Edward Gannon, S.J. Outstanding Teaching Award. This award is given annually at Commencement to recognize a faculty member who is an outstanding teacher and scholar during the academic year. The person should also exemplify the Catholic tradition of service to the University and the greater community.

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