Wheeling Jesuit’s Division of Student Life is dedicated to assisting students by providing quality support, co-curricular activities and developmental programs. Wheeling Jesuit University is committed to the academic and social development of each student including his or her intellect, values, emotions and purpose. Student Life’s goal is to empower students to become ethical decision makers, spiritual life discerners, global leaders and engagers in the pursuit of personal knowledge that leads to community and self-fulfillment.
An integral part of the WJU academic environment, Student Life provides a holistic view to educating students. By providing activities and leadership opportunities beyond the classroom, Student Life assist the University in producing students who can and will contribute to the community and help each to become more competent, virtuous and responsible citizens.
New Student Programs
Beginning with the summer orientation sessions and continuing throughout most of the fall semester, an orientation program is conducted on the campus for all new students including transfer students. A variety of activities are offered to give some idea of the dimensions of the collegiate experience. In the fall, welcome weekend begins before the start of classes (usually the 3 or 4 days preceding the first day of classes), during which new students may adjust to their surroundings, meet classmates, settle into a new room and familiarize themselves with the campus and its services.
Meetings with faculty advisors, socials and discussions on student life, help the new student become acquainted with Wheeling Jesuit University. The orientation programs, under the direction of the Student Life staff and a group of specially trained upperclassmen called Luceats, provides an opportunity for all new students and their parents to adjust to the collegiate experience.
The First Year Program (FYP), which includes the First Year Seminar, a one-credit course taken in the fall semester, is designed for first year students and covers a wide variety of topics, both academic and social.
Housing and Residence Life
Since the majority of the University’s undergraduate students reside on campus, special emphasis is given to the seven residence halls and their programs. The residence program is an essential part of the student’s life, as it can provide the union of learning with the art of living. Freshman and sophomore students who do not reside with their parent(s) or legal guardian within a reasonable commuting distance from home are required to live on-campus. The Resident Life staff informs students of University policies and rules and assists them in their adjustment to the University environment. All students living on campus must utilize a meal plan. Freshmen
(0-27 credit hours) may choose either the 19 or Carte Blanche meal plan. Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors have additional options.
On-campus living provides a balance of challenge and support for residents, allowing residents to learn about themselves and others and to take responsibility for themselves and their development. Therefore, the role of Resident Life is to contribute to the development of residents through the creation of diverse and positive living environments.
Resident Life also develops programs and activities for all students, residents and commuters. Commuters are strongly encouraged to become active in campus life at Wheeling Jesuit. A special “On-Resident Life Experience” may be offered in the spring semester, if space is available, to commuters interested in having an opportunity to experience living in a residence hall.
Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry provides opportunities for the spiritual well-being of all members of the Wheeling Jesuit University community. Its foundational goal and purpose is to convey the Good News of Jesus Christ as understood within the Ignatian tradition, and to encourage others to respond to the Good News. This is done, not only by inviting all to celebrate in religious services, in which all are invited to participate, but also in the celebrations of life itself, whether in learning, social gatherings, athletic events, or social outreach. Campus Ministry works in concert with all other areas of the University to promote peace and justice within the individual, the community and throughout the world. The Campus Ministry team strives to show by both word and example the Ignatian ideal that all is good and all is gift, to be used wisely and shared with others. Through its own activities and events which are open to all members of the University, Campus Ministry fosters individuals who are leaders filled with a lively faith, authenticity, integrity and conviction.
The offices and lounges of Campus Ministry are located on the lower level of the Chapel of Mary and Joseph.
Career Center
The mission of WJU’s Career Center is to provide progressive services and resources that help students and alumni prepare for and manage their careers, learn job-seeking skills and locate suitable internship or service learning experiences as well as employment. The Career Center offers many activities, services and resources to assist all students in their transition from college to post-graduation pursuits in the world-of-work or graduate school.
Some of the services that may be found useful are individual career counseling and assessment testing, computer-assisted-guidance, on-campus recruiting, career planning and job search presentations and interview preparation. In addition, each spring semester an annual job fair is sponsored through the Upper Ohio Valley Career Services Consortium–an association of ten college career centers from the tri-state region of which Wheeling Jesuit University is a member. A wealth of career, volunteer and graduate school information is
available in our career library as well as on our website
www.wju.edu/studentlife/careercenter. The Career Center at Wheeling Jesuit University is a member of the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
The Career Center is located on the second floor of Swint Hall and is opened daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. when classes are in session as well as throughout the summer months. To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call (304) 243-2451.
Student Activities and Recreation Programs
The Office of Student Activities and Campus Recreation Programs offers a variety of opportunities for the campus community to engage in recreational and/or educational opportunities. The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student organization that works with the Office to bring performers, comedians and a wide variety of entertainment and educational programs to the WJU community. This organization also sponsors dances and various other campus events. The Office utilizes the campus coffee shop to provide acoustic evenings, pool and ping-pong and a video library. CAB annually works with the Student Government Association and other campus organizations in events such as Welcome Week, Family Weekend and Last Blast.
The Office, with the assistance of the Rathskeller Board (students and faculty), also oversees the operation of the Rathskeller. The “Ratt,” as it is more commonly called, is an on-campus pub that provides the WJU community with a social meeting and gathering place. The Rathskeller observes all state and local laws concerning alcohol consumption and provides a variety of non-alcoholic beverages for underage students and those who choose not to consume alcohol.
In cooperation with the Student Government Association, the Office oversees the campus Intramural Program. The Intramural Program is directed by student commissioners who plan and implement the various offerings such as flag football, basketball, kick-ball and other seasonal sports and activities.
All WJU students are encouraged to participate in or take advantage of these various programs. Most events sponsored by the Office of Student Activities and Campus Recreation Programs, CAB and the campus Intramural Program are free of charge to WJU students.
Athletic Activities
Wheeling Jesuit University offers a well-balanced athletic program of intercollegiate, intramural and club sport activities.
Intercollegiate Athletics
Wheeling Jesuit is a member of the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, composed of 15 member institutions throughout the state. A Division II Member, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Wheeling Jesuit competes on the intercollegiate level in men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s track, men’s and women’s swimming, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s golf, women’s volleyball, men’s lacrosse, women’s fast-pitch softball and cheerleading.
Club Sports and Intramurals
The University sponsors four club sports: volleyball, rugby, ice hockey and lacrosse. The University sponsors a strong intramural program all year long. Among the intramural sports are football, soccer, volleyball, basketball and softball.
Athletic Facilities
The Alma Grace McDonough Health and Recreation Center,
completed in 1993, is the home of the “Cardinal” basketball and volleyball squads and is also used for a variety of recreational activities. It features a 2,500 seat gymnasium with two full-size basketball courts, one main cross court for varsity games and an elevated jogging track with a warm-up area. The Health and Recreation Center also includes an indoor six-lane, 25 yard swimming pool, an aerobics room, a multipurpose room and two racquetball courts. The James Trueman Fitness Center, which is equipped with Nautilus machines, free weights and cardiovascular equipment, is also housed in the Center.
In 1998, the University opened the Outdoor Athletic Complex which includes the James LaRosa field, the Bill Van Horne Grandstand, the Lenore Retzer Joseph Press Box, tennis courts, softball diamond and track facilities. This facility is used for soccer, track and other sporting events. The Emily LaRosa field is also used for soccer, rugby and lacrosse matches as well as intramural events.
The University encourages personal and group physical fitness. It is the aim of the University to provide a variety of competitive activities and to strongly encourage students to participate in one or more of the sports programs and to develop leadership, teamwork and a positive attitude in student-athletes.
Counseling Center
The Counseling Center serves students by providing education, prevention and intervention dealing with a variety of personal issues and concerns. Staffed by licensed professional counselors, the center promotes individual growth and development and assists students in their adjustment to University life. Services are available to all on an individual and confidential basis. The center has a network of community referrals for special circumstances.
Throughout the academic year, the Counseling Center presents educational programs that focus on student concerns.
Dining Services
The University’s Dining Service is provided by Sodexho Dining Services, which employs an experienced staff to ensure the highest quality of food and services possible. The dining service features a dynamic program tailored to meet all WJU students. There are several meal plan options available to resident and commuter students. A retail Kiosk, located in the WJU Rattskellar, is designed to cater to students on the run.
The dining service is located in Swint Hall and offers extensive hours of operation. The spacious facility includes two dining rooms, the Benedum Room and the Headlines Cafe. Students are encouraged to express their voice about the campus dining service through participation on the food service committee which meets on a regular basis.
Health Center
The Health Center is available to all students on both an appointment and walk-in basis daily Monday through Friday. It is staffed by a physician and registered nurses who provide a high level of outpatient care with an emphasis on “wellness.” It is also a resource for health education which includes prevention and assistance in making responsible healthy choices. Services include primary care for minor injuries and illnesses, health maintenance and immunizations. Referrals are made to medical and dental specialists when indicated and for laboratory and x-ray needs. All health records and visits are kept confidential unless otherwise directed by the student. The Health Center is located in the McDonough Center (Room 219).
International Student Center
The International Student Center coordinates and advises international students and assists them with campus and cultural adjustments. The Center acts as the center for immigration information and material, and assists international students in this regard.
Through orientation sessions and campus programming, the students become acquainted with academic and social life. Community outreach programs enable them to share their unique cultures with Americans of all ages: school children, adults and senior citizens. Interaction between American students and international students is encouraged and supported by this office, as well as the entire University community. The office is located in Ignatius Hall, G-13.
The English Language Institute
The English Language Institute is a language school for students from non-English speaking nations who come to learn English. The English Language Institute is located on the ground floor of Ignatius Hall. Through short, intensive courses, students acquire the knowledge of English necessary for travel, professional or occupational communication, or admission to a U.S. institution of higher education. To offer the most effective education, class sizes tend to be small. University students in turn benefit from interactions with these students from other countries. While home stays with American families are also available, many of the English Language Institute students reside on campus and use the library, the Benedum Room and other University facilities. Some complete the English Language Institute program and enter Wheeling Jesuit University. The University and its students strive to make these students feel welcome and at ease in what to them is a very new and different environment.
Office of Wellness and Leadership Programs
Wellness Program
The Wellness Program stipulates that a well-educated person is one who has explored varied opportunities for growth during the university years and emerges as an involved and productive member of society – confident, competent and enlightened by shared experiences with fellow human beings.
Since no single formula for growth will satisfy the needs of all individuals, students must assume an active role in the design of their own plan for development. This plan must incorporate the eight dimensions of the program: career development, emotional, cultural/ intellectual, physical, risk prevention, sexual, social concern and spiritual. Students gain credits through a variety of workshops, seminars, sports activities, retreats, the arts, lectures and community service, representative of the eight dimensions.
As a graduation requirement, each student must participate in at least two separate offerings for each of the eight dimensions. Under the direction of the Associate Vice President for Student Life, the program produces people who are committed to a lifestyle of health and service to the human community.
Alcohol and other drug education efforts for students and employees are the prime focus of this program. Individual and family alcohol and other drug-related concerns are dealt with confidentially through education, prevention and intervention methods. Rehabilitation referrals are available, as well as a resource library of books, tapes and other materials. The Peer Education Program utilizes students who promote a balanced lifestyle through healthy daily living.
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Wheeling Jesuit University as an educational institution is committed to providing for its students a campus environment in which serious study and learning can take place. The University considers all students, residents and non-residents as its partners in the responsibility of creating and maintaining that environment. All students are expected to conduct themselves accordingly and are expected to abide by all the policies and regulations of the University as a condition of academic acceptance to the University. While many such policies and regulations are discussed in this catalog, students are expected to be familiar with the University’s academic catalog and other publications regarding such matters.
Judicial authority in non-academic affairs is vested in the Division of Student Life through the Associate Vice President for Student Life and his/her delegates. The judicial process is described in the Judicial Process and Sanctions section of the WJU Student Handbook.
Multicultural Affairs
The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) is dedicated to providing academic, cultural and social support to the African, Hispanic, Asian and Native American (WAHANA) students in the community of Wheeling Jesuit University. OMA strives to develop a sense of community among all students by promoting recognition, respect and acceptance of WAHANA students. It is important for one to affirm his or her own identity as well as to participate fully in university life. OMA’s programs and services seek to enhance the students’ enjoyment and success while at Wheeling Jesuit University.
Campus Safety and Security/Parking
The Campus Safety and Security Office is responsible for vehicle registration, parking and the security of the campus. A member of the campus safety and security staff is available 24 hours a day. Student Safety and Security Assistants are also on patrol during the late evening hours during the semester. Any member of the community or guests on campus may contact Campus Safety and Security to receive an escort from one place on campus to another. Escort service will be provided by either the safety and security officer or the student security assistants team on duty. Students are permitted to have automobiles on campus, however, vehicles must be registered at the Campus Safety and Security Office for an annual $30 fee.
Services for Students with Disabilities
Special facilities and services are available to physically disabled students. Ramps are provided to the library, cafeteria, the classroom buildings, snack bar area and the new Kirby addition of Sara Tracy. There is elevator access within the main classroom buildings, Donahue and Acker and within the residence hall at Thomas More, Ignatius Hall, the new Kirby addition of Sara Tracy and Steenrod graduate building. Elevators are also located at NTTC, CET, the McDonough Center and Swint Hall which houses the dining room, administrative offices and the library. Designated handicapped parking in various locations are provided along with counseling for students and their families and special services as needed.
Student Financial Aid
The Financial Aid Office coordinates the University, federal and state financial aid programs. This office also provides information regarding scholarships, loans and grants from private sources (non-institutional, nongovernmental aid).
Detailed information about the variety of aid opportunities and how to apply for them is described in the Financial Aid Programs section of this catalog.
Student Government
Wheeling Jesuit University Student Government provides students with a means of participation in the direction and government of the University. Student Government conducts regular meetings, officers are elected by the student body and various chairs are appointed by the officers. Board members serve on campus-wide committees, regularly communicate student concerns to members of the University’s administration and involve other students in the governance process of the University.
Senators are chosen from various constituencies to represent their members in the Student Government. A Commuter Student Organization, whose officers are also senators, seeks to meet the special needs of commuting students.
Each class elects its own government for the purpose of promoting class unity through various activities.
Student Organizations
The University has a number of clubs and special interest groups which meet the needs of a diverse student body. Some of these include: Biology Club, Chemistry Club, Physics Club, Students for Life, Performing Arts Club, Residence Hall Council, Martial Arts Club, WV Student Nurses, JAPOT (Peace and Justice Organization), Future Executives Club and PEERS.
Some of the larger clubs on campus are as follows:
The Campus Activities Board is a group of students who volunteer under the direction of the Director of Student Activities and Campus Recreation Programs to plan and sponsor a variety of activities both on and off campus. These events include, but are not limited to concerts, comedians, coffeehouses, homecoming, spring carnival, movies and dances. Off campus recreational trips may include, skiing, hiking and whitewater rafting.
The Appalachian Experience Club provides the Wheeling Jesuit University community an opportunity to enter more fully into the Appalachian culture, with periodic work experiences in southern West Virginia. The club emphasizes the values of community, simple lifestyle and the call for justice in a region often referred to as a domestic Third World. The club’s philosophy is in keeping with the ideals of service and concern for others, which characterize the educational philosophy of Wheeling Jesuit University.
The EXCEL Program (Excellence in Christian Service, Education and Leadership) is designed to compliment the University’s academic training and graduate leaders from Wheeling Jesuit University who are “men and women for others.” The program’s goal is to develop one’s leadership skills, spiritual values and talents so as to influence society, especially in one’s field of study and life’s work. Through pre-semester retreats, weekly meetings and semester projects, students learn theoretical and practical applications of leadership.
The International Student Club was established as a group to share and explore the diverse cultures of the world. The club assists international students in making the transition into American society and to reach the educational goals they have established. The club sponsors events, such as lectures, an international day, socials and community service projects which include programs for the developmentally disabled. International and American students are encouraged to join this active and enthusiastic organization.
Students in Union, a social outreach organization, sponsors a variety of programs and projects throughout the year. More recent involvements include tutoring in local schools, working with disadvantaged or handicapped children, visiting the elderly in nursing homes and sponsoring an alternative spring break trip.
Honoraries include ten groups which are local chapters of national honor societies. They are Alpha Mu Gamma, Phi Alpha Theta, Alpha Sigma Nu, Beta Beta Beta, Phi Sigma Tau, Psi Chi, Sigma Iota Rho, Sigma Pi Sigma, Sigma Theta Tau and Theta Alpha Kappa. Alpha Mu Gamma is a national honor society in modern languages; Phi Alpha Theta is the national honor society for history; Beta Beta Beta is a national honor society in biology; Phi Sigma Tau is a national honor society in philosophy; Psi Chi is the national honor society for psychology majors; Sigma Iota Rho is a national honor society in international studies; Sigma Pi Sigma is a national honor society in physics; Sigma Theta Tau is a national honor society in nursing; and Theta Alpha Kappa is a national honor society in theology. Alpha Sigma Nu joins outstanding Wheeling Jesuit University students with those selected from the other American Jesuit Colleges and Universities who have distinguished themselves in scholarship, loyalty and service.
Student Publications
Jewelweed is a literary review published at Wheeling Jesuit University and edited with the assistance of the English Faculty. Submissions are open, and the magazine is listed in national creative writing directories. Students serve on the editorial board and may submit work for review and possible publication.
The Manifest, the University yearbook, is conceived, designed and distributed by students. The yearbook offers students the opportunity to test their writing, photography and marketing skills.
The student newspaper, the Cardinal Connection, is written, edited and published biweekly. Staff positions are open to students who wish to develop journalistic skills.
The World Wise is the official publication of the International Students Club.
