History
Wheeling University, originally named Wheeling College, was founded in 1954 as West Virginia’s only Catholic institution of higher education. Its mission is centered on spiritual enlightenment and service, guided by the principles of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
The idea for a Catholic college in the area dates back to the late 1800s, but it was revived in 1951 by Archbishop John J. Swint. He proposed funding the land and construction if the Jesuits would operate the college. A year later, the plan was approved, the land was acquired, and construction began in 1954. The university was officially incorporated on September 25, 1954, and Reverend Lawrence McHugh, S.J., was named its first president the next day.
On September 26, 1955, the university opened its doors with 12 Jesuit priests, 4 lay professors, and an initial class of 90 students. Since then, it has grown significantly, now boasting over 100 faculty and staff, with a freshman class averaging around 250 students each year. The original buildings remain, but the campus has expanded with new academic, athletic, and residential facilities.
The university has diversified its academic offerings to more than 12 undergraduate and 6 graduate degrees. Athletically, the initial two basketball teams have grown to over 20 NCAA Division II intercollegiate teams, known as the Cardinals.
Education at Wheeling goes beyond the classroom, fostering research with faculty and service-learning within the community. The university’s more than 11,000 alumni have made an impact in various fields, demonstrating the mission to be leaders in their communities.
The campus has hosted numerous cultural and political events, including visits from former President Ronald Reagan and artists like Dizzy Gillespie. The university is also the main organizer of the city’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration.
A Legacy of Leadership
From our founding Jesuit president in 1954 to today, 14 leaders have guided Wheeling University's growth. Click through the timeline to learn about each one.
Local Business Partnerships
Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheetmetal
53 14th Street, Wheeling, WV 26003 With its corporate office in downtown Wheeling, Kalkreuth also has offices in Maryland, Ohio, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. Interns can expect a wide exposure to the industry, including construction industry processes and inter-relationships, Kalkreuth-specific management and accounting functions, and other industry-related activities. Business majors and Construction certificate students will gain a great deal of knowledge and practical experience in this environment.
– Paolo Ghigo, Tecnocap LLC President –
Wheeling University is about leadership, service, and an education that will last a lifetime.
What if I am not Catholic?
Wheeling University welcomes students from all walks of life, faiths and religious backgrounds. As a Catholic University, we advocate for a holistic development; which intrinsically includes one’s personal religious and spiritual growth. We promote the practice of faith in our students, faculty and staff while holding fast to the principles of religious freedom; encouraging individuals and groups to practice as they choose.
You do not need to be Catholic to participate in any of our campus ministry programs. By participating in retreats, small prayer communities, community-service opportunities, and service-immersion trips, we all learn about other faith traditions and spiritual journeys. Our campus ministry staff wishes to help students grow into persons of faith regardless of denomination during their formative college years.
Look at our Other Places to Worship page for a list of local faith communities in the Wheeling area. If you need help, we would love to help you find one that fits your needs.