During its first 50 years of existence, Wheeling Jesuit University has done much for its community and has helped thousands of young men and women get good starts in their careers. But this weekend, as the institution concludes a year-long celebration of its first half-century, it appears that the best years lie ahead.

Founded as Wheeling College and incorporated on Sept. 25, 1954, the institution has grown not just in physical facilities and enrollment but also in service during its first 50 years. That has happened in large measure, we believe, because Wheeling College was established on an excellent foundation.

When then-Bishop John J. Swint and the Maryland Province of the Society for Jesus founded the college, they had two basic goals. First, they wanted to provide students with the skills to succeed in life. Second, they wanted to instill desires to serve others. That philosophy is summed up by the university's motto: "Let Your Light Shine."

The Rev. Fr. Joseph R. Hacala, S.J., now president of Wheeling Jesuit, believes the institution has been a success in "consistent and quality training of students for lives of discernment in the Jesuit tradition and for leadership positions in the contemporary world."

We agree. But we think it is a tribute to all involved in the Wheeling Jesuit tradition that no one at the university is resting on his or her laurels. During recent years the university has achieved national notice for education excellence. At the same time it has established important new programs to serve both students and communities. One example is Wheeling Jesuit's Coal Impoundment Location and Information System, providing an important service to the public.

The university itself is letting its light shine in many ways. As the Wheeling Jesuit community wraps up its celebration of the first 50 years, then, there is every reason to believe the institution is better than ever, ready to demonstrate even more excellence during the next half-century.