Wheeling University Holds 68th Commencement Ceremony

May 9, 2026

Wheeling University Holds 68th Commencement Ceremony

WHEELING, W.Va., May 9 - The Wheeling University Commencement speaker and alumnus Gerald F. Schroer, Jr., 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.

A self-proclaimed 'late bloomer,' Schroer said, "I am living proof that with a supportive family, a supportive environment, good friends, and certainly blessings in my own personal journey, anything is possible."

"Always and I mean always, take the high road, and do the right thing. Doing the right thing will not always be the easiest path, but it will always be the best path," he told the graduates.

A member of the class of 1986 and CEO of The Schroer Group in North Canton, Ohio, Schroer said the graduates should listen to individuals who have different beliefs than their own. "Talk and listen and be open to the thoughts of people who are different from you. Real understanding and respect only happen when we reach out and truly listen to each other."

He said it is important stay close to God. "No matter where you are in your faith journey, try to maintain a relationship with God. He's always there," Schroer said.

"My hope for each of you is that as you go through life, you experience the same love and support that I have received from family, friends, and fellow alumni. I hope you remember these brief thoughts. I hope you give back to your family, friends, and communities in ways you never imagined. I hope you always take the high road. Serve others. Protect your friends and family. Keep your faith. And always remember, anything is possible," he said.

The University awarded Schroer an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters during the ceremony.

Wheeling University President, Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D., said, "We are confident that Wheeling University has carried forth its mission to you. All of us are witness to your spiritual enlightenment, to your hard work and commitment to your studies, to your striving to find God in everything you do. We have no doubt that you are fully prepared to be tomorrow's leaders."

Andrew Schmidt, who graduated with Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Sports Management, and Cameron Zinn, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing were the Wheeling University Class of 2026 co-valedictorians.

Schmidt, a native of St. Clairsville, Ohio, said the one word that summarizes the past four years at Wheeling University is dedication.

He said his faith has guided him the last four years at Wheeling University. "Colossians 3:23 reminds us: 'Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.' That verse has shaped my approach to everything I do. Dedication isn't just about achievement. It's about giving your whole heart to what matters most."

"Dedication has been like a compass, always pointing me in the right direction. On the soccer field, I learned that true success is rarely defined by a single moment. In the classroom, that same dedication led me through a double major in Accounting and Sports Management. Two very different worlds, with numbers on one side, and organization and collaboration on the other," Schmidt said.

"As we step forward, I encourage my classmates to carry this dedication into everything we do. Whether it is on the field, in the office, or in our communities, let us strive not just for success, but for meaning. Let us be leaders who inspire, thinkers who innovate, and friends who support. The road ahead will have setbacks and uncertainties, but I have no doubt that the Class of 2026 will face them with courage, resilience, and integrity," he told his classmates.

Zinn, a native of McArthur, Ohio, said four years ago, she had no idea the impact Wheeling University would have on her life.

"Each of us arrived here with different dreams, different goals, and different paths ahead. Yet through every challenge and moment of doubt, we have all found our way to this day and shared accomplishment," Zinn said.

Wheeling University, she said, emphasizes the importance of its mission to be men and women for life, leadership, and service. "Here, we are not only encouraged to grow intellectually, but also reflect on who we are and who we are called to become. We are reminded that success is not measured solely by achievement, but by how we use our gifts to serve and help others."

She challenged her classmates to use the values they learned at the University every day. "In your profession, strive to make a difference in any way you can. Stay grounded in your purpose, trust in your abilities, and remember that God is with you every step of the way."

During the 68^th Commencement exercises, President Vargo, Ed.D., conferred degrees on nearly 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate students.