Waynesburg University has approached the end of their first week of classes for the 2024-2025 school year, and the first steps on the journey of the class of 2028 have begun. Despite such a short time on campus for the freshman class, they have seemingly already made an impression on two of the more recognizable faces at WU. 

“They inspire me. All of you are the hope for the future, and to the extent that we can create solid leaders that have the flavor of Waynesburg University,” Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee stated in a phone call interview when regarding his expectations of the class of 2028 after meeting them all during the matriculation ceremony that occurred on Thursday, August 22. “The faith, serving, learning, all of those applications rolled up together in one. That makes for a person that is capable of bringing a transformational change.”

     Speaking of a transformational change, one that came to campus was that of naming an interim provost following Dr. Dana Cook Baer stepping down from the position. For this school year, Dr. Melinda Walls has stepped into the role on an interim basis, and while the position has provided much adjusting according to Walls, it has also provided a new outlook for her regarding the University.

     “I think in this role, I have the ability to connect and see more of what’s happening across campus, because there is a lot of exciting things going on,” Walls said, while also touching upon how her role has already allowed her to meet and get to know many members of this freshman class. “I have been able to walk around and meet some people. I have been really impressed with this year’s class. I find them to be really open, eager to learn.”

     Lee made it known that Walls’ experience was very much a determining factor in reaching out to her to fill the role.

     “A great deal of experience in administration in a high level at West Virginia University, and being a member of faculty also. Having considerable teaching experience, all of those things weighed into the equation,” Lee said.

     A notable fact made in the press release by Waynesburg University Relations Office is that the class of 2028 received an estimated $11 million in financial aid combined. This level of accommodations and assistance for the class is seemingly all a part of Lee’s plan to stick to “fundamental goal” of Waynesburg University.

     “A.B. Miller was talking about that. The whole realm of higher education is in disruption. Areas of our country are going through disruption, and we as an institution have to respond to that change, and that we grow into the future of this whole new world that is existing,” Lee said when referencing the University’s third President’s outlook on change coming about in Waynesburg.