Waynesburg University celebrated the 175th anniversary of its charter by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Tuesday, March 25, with a special convocation in Roberts Chapel.
President Douglas G. Lee delivered the convocation address, during which he reflected on pivotal moments from the University's rich and storied history.
During his speech, President Lee honored contributions of the institution's influential leaders spanning generations, including A.B. and Margaret Bell Miller, Paul R. Stewart, Dr. Carolyn Thyreen and the late Timothy R. Thyreen, weaving their legacies into the University’s narrative.
“Above all else, what we celebrate today is the strong connection that this institution has with its foundation of faith; standing on the shoulders of those that came before us, we are the beneficiaries of their prayers and work,” said Lee.
President Lee shared an excerpt from A.B. Miller’s diary alongside quotes from recent valedictorians — words separated by decades yet united by a common theme of Christian faith paired with service to others as a guiding and motivating force.
“Sustained by the faith of the ages, may our past and present unite to be a light to the world,” Lee said in closing.
Waynesburg University Board Chair John K. Hinds also offered remarks, praising President and Mrs. Lee for their leadership in navigating the challenges facing higher education today.
“To me, the model of success is in full effect at Waynesburg University, each and every day,” Hinds said.
During the convocation, three faculty members received the University’s 2025 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Awards. Interim Provost Mindy Walls presented the teaching excellence awards to Cristy Wise, part-time lecturer of Biblical and Ministry Studies; Chaley Knight, instructor of psychology; and Dr. William Batchelder, associate professor of history and director of the Honors Program.
About Waynesburg U.
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, with an additional site for graduate and professional programs in Southpointe.
