Kaitlyn Cochran One of 37 Wheeling University Graduates from Mountain State

June 15, 2026

Kaitlyn Cochran One of 37 Wheeling University Graduates from Mountain State

WHEELING, W.Va., June 15 - 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.

Cochran, who is from Moundsville, is one of 37 students from across West Virginia to earn degrees from Wheeling University this year. The University awarded nearly 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in 2026.

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.

"I really enjoyed my classes at Wheeling. I had great professors who took the time to help me in and outside the classroom," Cochran explained. "I would not be a teacher today if it were not for my professors. They made sure I was successful in the classroom and during my student teaching. Most of all, they cared about me personally."

Cochran gave praise to Cindy Burke, Assistant Professor of Education. "Mrs. Burke was amazing. She taught me so much about being in the classroom, but also how to do the follow up work outside the classroom. She taught me many skills necessary for teaching that I have been able to apply during observation placements and while student teaching. Her support has meant so much to me."

Burke said during her student teaching, Cochran displayed "professionalism, a willingness to reflect and grow, and the ability to take feedback and immediately apply it to improve instruction. She was a good student, and I know she will be an exceptional teacher." She noted that Cochran also plans to teach in West Virginia.

The recent graduate also liked the small classes, which provided an intimate experience that allowed her to grow personally and professionally. "I don't think I would have the same learning experience at a larger university," Cochran said. "I also got the chance to learn about different cultures from my classmates that came to Wheeling from countries around the world."

In fact, she chose to attend Wheeling University because of the small class sizes. She also liked that the institution was close to home. "Family is very important to me, so it was important to attend a school that would allow me to be close to my family."

Outside events and activities also provided her with the chance to grow in her profession. Cochran was a mentor with the Help Enrich Someone Special (HESS) program. Through HESS, she worked with seventh grade students from Wheeling Middle School throughout the 12-week program.Cochran admits, the four years at Wheeling University went by fast. "It was surreal walking across the stage. I watched the three previous commencements waiting for my turn and I didn't expect for the time to go so fast. I'm proud of myself. I worked hard and earning a degree was quite an accomplishment."