Alumni Council Q&A: Wesley Loring ('11)

The latest addition to our series of Alumni Council Q&As features Council member Wesley Loring.

Q: When did you graduate from Waynesburg University, and what was your major?

A:I graduated from Waynesburg University in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (K-6) with dual enrollment in Special Education (PK-12).

Q: Where has life taken you since graduating from Waynesburg?

A:Following graduation, I began my career at Mapletown High School in the Southeastern Greene School District as a special education teacher and coach. I remained there until 2018, when I joined the Jefferson-Morgan School District as Special Education Director and Assistant Principal. Along the way, I earned a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and a Superintendent Letter of Eligibility from California University of Pennsylvania, as well as a Special Education Supervisory Certificate from Slippery Rock University. Today, I serve as the Middle/High School Principal and Director of Transportation at Jefferson-Morgan School District.

Q: What is your current job/title, and what is your current location?

A:I am the Middle/High School Principal and Director of Transportation at Jefferson-Morgan School District in Jefferson, Pennsylvania.

Q: Can you describe your typical day?

A:My day starts with coffee and conversation with my wife, Maddie ('11), before heading off to work. Mornings usually begin with greeting students and staff, making sure transportation runs smoothly, and addressing any immediate needs. Throughout the day, I focus on supporting teachers, collaborating with families, and maintaining a positive school culture-always keeping student growth, safety, and success at the center of my work.

After school, I shift back to family life, helping our daughters, Evee (7), Ellie (4), and Edee (2), with activities like piano and musical theatre. They keep us moving and on our toes, but they provide the perfect conclusion to each of our days.

Q: Can you describe your time as a student at Waynesburg and how it shaped you, personally and professionally?

A: My time at Waynesburg University was truly foundational. The sense of community, strong academic support, and faith-based environment helped shape my values and leadership style. I learned the importance of service, integrity, and empathy-qualities that continue to guide my work as an educator and administrator.

Q: What is your favorite memory as a Waynesburg student?

A:One of my favorite memories at Waynesburg is the sense of family we had in the education department. We built strong friendships that have lasted long after graduation, and I still stay connected with many classmates today. Our professors were incredible, too, as their guidance and support shaped not just our learning, but how we approach teaching and leadership in our careers.

Q: Who was your favorite professor at Waynesburg, and why?

A: It's hard to pick just one favorite professor at Waynesburg, but if I had to choose, it would be Frank Pazzynski. He had an incredible talent for making learning fun and engaging for us as college students. Frank always reminded us that teaching isn't just about sharing knowledge, but also about making the experience enjoyable and building strong connections with students.

He encouraged us to bring that same spirit into our own classrooms, to make learning entertaining as well as educational. For me, this shaped my approach as a teacher. I came to see that my job was as much about entertaining students as it was about teaching them. When students are engaged and having fun, it helps build rapport and creates a positive environment where deeper learning can thrive.

Q: Why is staying connected with the University important to you?

A: Staying connected with Waynesburg University deepens my bond with the community that helped shape my educational journey and allows me to give back in meaningful ways.

I truly enjoy contributing to the university, particularly through participating in mock interviews with WU's education department students, helping prepare them for their professional futures. In my role as principal, I also work closely with current high school students, sharing my WU experiences and guidance.

Being part of the Alumni Council provides ongoing opportunities for growth, networking, and collaboration with university stakeholders and current students. It inspires me to remain committed to lifelong learning and to support programs that benefit both current and future students. Staying connected is my way of honoring the institution that launched my career and helping ensure its continued success.

Q: What does your role as an Alumni Council member entail, and what motivates you to give back to the University in this way?

A: As an Alumni Council member, my role involves representing fellow graduates, fostering connections between alumni and the university, and supporting initiatives that enhance the student experience. This can include mentoring students, helping with events, providing feedback to university leadership, and contributing to fundraising efforts that sustain important programs.

What motivates me to give back in this way is the deep appreciation I have for the education and community I received at Waynesburg. I want to help create opportunities for current and future students to thrive, just as I was supported. Being able to contribute to the growth and success of the university feels like a meaningful way to honor what it gave me and to ensure it continues to make a positive impact.

Q: What advice do you have for current students? For recent graduates?

A:My advice for current students is to take full advantage of the opportunities Waynesburg University offers, whether through classes, clubs, athletics, or events. These experiences shape not only your skills but also your perspective. Always carry faith in the things you do; trust that your hard work and values will guide you even when the path isn't clear.

For recent graduates, I encourage you to maintain the relationships you built during your time at WU. Those connections can open doors professionally and personally. Speaking from experience, Waynesburg connected me to my wife almost a decade after graduation, showing that the bonds you form here can last a lifetime and enrich your life in unexpected ways. Keep nurturing those ties as they're truly invaluable.