Wheeling University Students are Reaping the Benefits of Classroom Renovations

November 9, 2026

Wheeling University Students are Reaping the Benefits of Classroom Renovations

WHEELING, W.Va., November 9 - The generosity of three donors has enhanced the teaching and learning process at Wheeling University.

Over the past two years, three classrooms received new technology, furniture and new flooring. Additionally, one computer lab was upgraded with all new computers and new technology for teaching. The classroom improvements have made a significant impact on the teaching and learning process, said Wheeling University President, Dianna M. Vargo, Ed.D.

"I am grateful to Dr. Younkins and our two anonymous donors for their generous gifts to Wheeling University. Their donations, which totaled more than $140,000, allowed the University to make classroom upgrades that are enhancing the student learning experience," said Dr. Vargo said.

Inside two Acker Science Center classrooms, new technology for teaching and furniture were installed. The updates to these two classrooms were made possible thanks to support from long-time Professor of Accounting, Dr. Edward Younkins, a member of the class of 1970.

Now in his 54^th year at Wheeling University, Dr. Younkins said the actual classroom he has taught in since 2017 was showing signs of age. In the Summer of 2025, Younkins proposed to Dr. Vargo sponsoring the renovations of the room and re-dedicating the classroom in memory of his parents.

"She was delighted by this idea," Younkins said.

Prior to the start of the 2025-26 academic year, Acker 213 was painted, new flooring was installed, new desks and chairs were purchased, and new technology, including a computer podium and Smart TV, welcomed students when they returned for the start of classes in August of 2025.

This past summer, Younkins generously sponsored upgrades to the Acker 205 classroom that many of his colleagues use. Updates were completed in August and included new furniture, flooring and technology, including a Smart TV.

This classroom is named in honor of Dr. Edward Younkins.

"It is important for each individual to produce or create value outside oneself, and supporting causes or institutions that are dear to one's heart is an excellent way to do that and perhaps leave a legacy," Younkins said of his donation. "Who knows, perhaps what I and others have done to upgrade classrooms, may prompt other alumni and friends of the University to refurbish other classrooms around the campus."

Also, this summer, Acker 215 was converted to a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) classroom. Funding for this work was through an anonymous donor.

The new STEM classroom provides students and faculty with collaborative space, and features a

Vibe Smartboard with an interactive "canvas" application that promotes classroom discussion and exploration. This technology allows instructors and students to access to built-in templates to for tasks, projects, or assignments when brainstorming or presenting. Additionally, the web browser allows instructors to visit educational sites to incorporate simulations, videos, and documents in their instructional practice.

New desks, flooring and newly painted walls were part of the upgrade.

The donor said, "Our goal was to create a space that empowered students to become valued stakeholders. The individual desks provide instructors with the flexibility to easily shift from whole group instruction to engaging hands-on cooperative learning activities. The 75-inch Vibe Smartboard facilitates valuable collaborations and explorations between in-person and online learners."

Finally, an anonymous donor provided funding to upgrade the computer lab in Acker 207. This gift allowed the University to purchase new computers, install a Smartboard and upgrade the instructor podium. New student desks and flooring were also installed.