10 Top Stories from 2022

Wilkes launched a multiphase project at 116 South Main Street in Wilkes-Barre.

Residential, student and community destination plans were shared for this historic property in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. visited Wilkes.

At just past 3 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 30, 2022, Wilkes faculty, students and staff packed the Arnaud C. Marts Center to hear President Biden address his Safer America Plan which aims to further reduce gun violence and crime.

Wilkes launches Cannabis Studies program.

Wilkes University launched new programs in cannabis studies, the first of their kind in the region. The bachelor of science degree in cannabis chemistry and a certificate program in cannabis production and CBD extraction will produce a workforce who can fill the scientific and quality control gaps that are prevalent in cannabis products.

The Dorothy Dickson Darte Center for the Performing Arts will receive $2.5 million in funding.

Gov. Tom Wolf announced that Wilkes will receive the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant. The grant will be used to complete the first phase of what is envisioned as a multi-phase project to enhance the Dorothy Dickson Darte Center. These funds will specifically support the accessibility of the theater through newly installed ramps, an enhanced entrance, ADA seating and parking as well as improved lobby space and a new interior elevator.

Wilkes hosted world-renowned lecturers.

Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid’s Tale (pictured here with President Greg Cant and Angela Cant), Jon Meacham, Pulitzer-Prize winning historian, and Jake Wood, founder of Team Rubicon, were three of the prestigious lecturers who spoke at Wilkes in 2022. On March 26, 2023, the Rosenn Lecture series will feature award-winning author, historian and Harvard professor of history Jill Lepore. Get more info and register here.

New Griggs Pharmacy Center dedicated.

During Homecoming Weekend, Jason Griggs ’90, along with his family, dedicated the new Griggs Pharmacy Center in honor of his great-grandfather, Alfred Griggs, and grandfather, Alfred Bowman Griggs.

Wilkes begins Henry Student Center ballroom renovations in honor of Jean and Paul Adams.

During Homecoming Weekend, the kickoff of the Adams Ballroom renovations was celebrated, with Paul and Jean Adams and their family in attendance. Find out more and support this important initiative here.

New branding initiative launched at Wilkes.

A new branding initiative was the culmination of a yearlong study that included focus groups and surveys. Over 2,800 students, faculty and staff participated, and shared what drives them, what they feel is important and how they perceive Wilkes. This data was the basis for Wilkes University’s new messaging: At Wilkes, you will. Watch the video overview.

50th anniversary of Hurricane Agnes retrospective installed on campus.

The E.S. Farley Library unveiled “Remembering Agnes: 50 Years Later,” an audio walking tour, interactive website and artifact exhibit that shares the history of Wilkes University during and after Hurricane Agnes in 1972. Access the images and links to the website here.

Walter, the first dog of Wilkes, arrives on campus.

Walter, the most recent (and fuzziest) Colonel, arrived on campus this year along with the 90th academic class. Ever since President Greg and Angela Cant adopted this adorable Hava-poo from Blue Chip Animal Farm Refuge, he has become one of the most popular members of the community. Don’t furget to give him a follow on Instagram!