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Wheeling University Valedictorian Natalie Stoner of Bellaire addresses fellow graduates Saturday during commencement. (Photo Provided)

WHEELING — Jennifer Hornyak, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, told the Wheeling University Class of 2024 “to let God lead your choices and direction.”

During the Wheeling University’s 66th Commencement exercises, Dianna Vargo, the university’s chief operations officer, presented degrees to undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students. Additionally, Hornyak, the commencement speaker, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by her alma mater.

A member of the university’s Class of 2000, Hornyak said, “My biggest advice to all of you is to be open to all opportunities that come your way … every opportunity could serve as a path to something you never would have dreamed could ever happen in your life. Trust in God that your life journey is purposefully designed and meant to be. God will place opportunities right in front of you – many of those opportunities will be unexpected. Pray about those opportunities. … Let God lead your choices and direction.”

Hornyak said the graduates have spent the past four years making many memories.

“As you move forward, never forget the memories, and most of all the support system that has brought you to this moment,” she said. “Cherish the friendships you have made, the professors, instructors and coaches who have all guided you … the families who have cheered you on every step of the way. In line with the mission of this great university … please leave here today remembering how important it is to share this gift of a Catholic college education with others, to give back to your communities, to mentor those who come after you, and to always strive for excellence in everything you do.”

“We are all rooting for you, and excited to see what great things you will accomplish throughout your lifetimes — the impact you will make in the world,” she added.

Vargo said the university provided graduates with the opportunity to learn, grow, lead and serve others.

“Today marks the continuance — not the end — of this opportunity for our graduates,” Vargo said. Graduates, you have worked hard for your degree at this great University. Now, you will live up, to the spirit of your education and use your degree for all that is good. Your timing is perfect. The world needs you now. Go strong with confidence, and determination, from this day forward. Be, our proud example, of Wheeling University.”

Class Valedictorian Natalie Stoner of Bellaire, Ohio, offered a special thank you to the faculty “who have enlightened and shaped our educational experience. You have equipped us to take our knowledge and change the world.”

Stoner said whatever the future hold for her fellow classmates — careers in teaching, healthcare, the ÀÏ˾»úÖ±²¥ world or restoring justice — they can take the skills and experiences they have encounters at the university to stand out as leaders now and in the future.

David Hendrickson, chair of the Wheeling University Board of Trustees, told the class that their time at the university has given them the tools necessary to continue to grow, learn and overcome the many life challenges that lie ahead.

He called on the graduates to “do three things for me as you continue on life’s path.”

“Today, tonight, tomorrow thank those that helped you obtain your degree,” Hendrickson said. “Education doesn’t come easy or cheaply.” He said sacrifices were made by others for each graduate to have the opportunity to attend Wheeling University.

“Second, make it a goal to help someone each day … no matter how big or small, you will find in doing so, the blessings you give will be repaid many, many times over,” he said. “Last, but certainly not least — give back (to Wheeling University).” Giving back to Wheeling University, the board chair noted, can be “acting as a tutor, teaching a class or just giving advice to those (students) who follow.”

The university honored Dr. Kristine Grubler, associate professor of Physical Therapy, by awarding Grubler the Fr. Edward Gannon, S.J. Outstanding Teaching Award. Each year, Wheeling University gives two medals during Commencement to those graduates who have distinguished themselves both in service and in academics. The Mary Woomer Medal and Archbishop John J. Swint Medals, are given to the woman and man in the class who most exemplifies the ideals of Wheeling University. Keala McCurry was the recipient of the Woomer Medal, while Sverri Finsson was given the Swint Medal.