Wilkes University

File:Wilkes (7217521524).jpg

Wilkes University was first established in 1933 by Bucknell University under the name "Bucknell University Junior College" (BUJC) in Wilkes-Barre.{{cite web| url=https://www.bucknell.edu/interested-in-bucknell/who-we-are/history-and-traditions/milestones/a-history-of-achievement.html| title=A History of Achievement| publisher=Bucknell University| access-date=14 September 2014}} Frank G. Davis, chair of the Education department at Bucknell, first developed the idea of BUJC and served as an early liaison between BUJC and Bucknell. BUJC attracted many students who were the first members of their families to benefit from higher education as the need for junior colleges arose in urban areas. The college opened in downtown Wilkes-Barre, where the first classes were held on the third floor of the Wilkes-Barre Business College building. By 1934, the business college moved out of the building and BUJC had taken it over and continued to grow over the years, acquiring old mansions for student housing, classrooms, and administration offices along the streets of South River and South Franklin. By 1945, the board of trustees formally moved to develop the junior college into a four-year institution.{{cite web| url=http://wilkes.edu/pages/140.asp| title=Wilkes History| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915030538/http://wilkes.edu/pages/140.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}}

File:The 1972 Agnes flood at Wilkes-Barre, PA.jpg

In 1947, "Wilkes College" was instituted as an independent, nondenominational four-year college, with programs in the arts, sciences, and a number of professional fields, as well as numerous extracurricular activities. The student body in the postwar period was primarily composed of Luzerne County residents, especially G.I. bill recipients.{{Cite book|title=The Wilkes University Historical Atlas|last=Cox|first=Harold|publisher=Wilkes University|year=1994|location=Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania}} In the 1950s, increasing numbers of students elected to live on campus, which led to a rapid expansion in on-campus student housing. Increased federal funding for science and engineering in the 1950s led the college to develop academic programs in those areas, build the Stark Learning Center, and increase enrollment.

In 1972, the Wilkes Barre area experienced the devastation of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Agnes that flooded much of the campus and downtown region.{{Cite web|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/academics/library/agnes-flood-walking-tour/index.aspx|title=Remembering Agnes: 50 Years Later | Wilkes University|website=www.wilkes.edu}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.usgs.gov/centers/pennsylvania-water-science-center/news/50th-anniversary-hurricane-agnes|title=50th Anniversary of Hurricane Agnes | U.S. Geological Survey|website=www.usgs.gov|date=January 1975 }}

Wilkes College became "Wilkes University" in December 1989, and the school officially received university status a month later, in January 1990.

Wilkes University opened the School of Pharmacy in 1996,{{cite web| url=http://www.pharmacist.com/school-pharmacy-profile-wilkes-university-nesbitt-college-pharmacy-and-nursing| title=School of Pharmacy Profile: Wilkes University Nesbitt College of Pharmacy and Nursing| author=Julie L. Olenak| work=American Pharmacists Association| date=9 July 2012| access-date=14 September 2014}} and in 1999, through a donation from Mrs. Geraldine Nesbitt Orr, the Nesbitt School of Pharmacy was established.

The Thomas P. (Pettus) Shelburne Jr. Telecommunications Center was built under the guidance of chief engineer Carl Brigido and dedicated by Wilkes University in the lower level of the Stark Learning Center in 1996. Secured after a major gift from Shelburne's widow Catherine and family and fundraising efforts of long time Communication Studies professors, Bradford L. Kinney and Thomas Bigler. This was the second television studio on campus, previously located in two small rooms on the second floor of the Stark Learning Center. The Shelburne Center became the first dedicated space built with first use equipment for the direct purpose of media education with multiple editing bays, two studio spaces, educational break out teaching space and director offices and storage. {{Cite web |last=Archivist |first=Times Leader |date=2007-03-02 |title=Longtime Newspaper And Tv Commentator Tom Bigler Dies |url=https://www.timesleader.com/archive/1147237/longtime-newspaper-and-tv-commentator-tom-bigler-dies |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=Times Leader |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title={{!}} Wilkes University |url=https://www.wilkes.edu/campus-directory/carl.brigido.aspx |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=www.wilkes.edu |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Archivist |first=Times Leader |date=1995-02-14 |title=Broadcast Pioneer Shelburne Was Active In Area Friends And Associates Remember A Man Who Always Wanted To Make Things Better, Especially In Wyoming Valley |url=https://www.timesleader.com/archive/864659/broadcast-pioneer-shelburne-was-active-in-area-friends-and-associates-remember-a-man-who-always-wanted-to-make-things-better-especially-in-wyoming-valley |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=Times Leader |language=en-US}} The Shelburne Center served for twenty years as the precursor to the Clayton and Theresa Karambelas Media and Communications Center dedicated in 2017 that consolidated all of the university media holdings for instruction.{{Cite web |last=D'Amico |first=Gabrielle |date=2017-08-31 |title=Wilkes University Dedicates New Karambelas Media and Communication Center |url=https://news.wilkes.edu/2017/08/31/wilkes-university-dedicates-new-karambelas-media-and-communication-center/ |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=Wilkes News |language=en-US}}

The Jay S. Sidhu School of Business & Leadership was created in 2004 and the university purchased a {{cvt|80,000|sqft}} building in downtown Wilkes-Barre. to house the expanding school. Initially named the Center on Main, the building houses the Sidhu School of Business and Leadership, an indoor track and field, and ropes course. In 2021 the Center on Main was formally named after Ron and Rhea Simms to be known as Simms Center on Main.

The Henry Student Center was expanded in 2005. {{Cite web |last=Yumpu.com |title=WILKES UNIVERSITY |url=https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/view/54583034/wilkes-university |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=yumpu.com |language=en}}

By 2014, Wilkes University grew to include eight academic buildings, 20 residence halls, nine administrative buildings, and other facilities such as the Eugene S. Farley Library, the Henry Student Center, and athletic complexes.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/141.asp| title=Fast Facts| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140916104005/http://wilkes.edu/pages/141.asp| archive-date=16 September 2014}}

On April 17, 2015, Wilkes University dedicated the main university mailroom facility located on the second floor of the Henry Student Center as the Edward Elgonitis Sr. Mailroom or simply "Eddie's Mailroom" in honor of the thirty-three year dedicated Wilkes University staff member.{{Cite web |title=Eddie's Mailroom |url=https://www.wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/offices-and-administration/business-operations/university-postal-center/index.aspx |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=www.wilkes.edu |language=en}}{{Citation |title=Edward "Eddie" Elgonitis Memorial | date=4 February 2015 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gsm4EFjYE9g |language=en |access-date=2023-03-02}}{{Cite news |title=Eddie Elgonitis - Wilkes' "Mailroom Marvel" |url=https://community.wilkes.edu/s/344/m21/interior.aspx?sid=344&gid=1&pgid=286&cid=3286&ecid=3286&ciid=9980&crid=0 |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=The Colonel Connection - Wilkes University}}

On August 31, 2017, the university dedicated the Clayton and Theresa Karambelas Media and Communication Center, built within the structure of the original Bartikowsky Jewelers building on 25 West South Street by the Sordoni Contractors to be the first constructed to hold all the university media instruction holdings into one consolidated building. The building also houses the Sordoni Art Gallery that moved from its original location on the first level of the Stark Learning Center.{{Cite web |title=The Clayton and Theresa Karambelas Media Center |url=https://sordoni.com/projects/the-clayton-and-theresa-karambelas-media-center/ |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=Sordoni Construction |language=en-US}}{{Citation |title=Karambelas Media and Communication Center Tour | date=22 February 2019 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7nzjcqfRaY |language=en |access-date=2023-03-02}}{{Citation |title=Karambelas Media Center Dedication | date=3 October 2017 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vo_PcaoHvFk|access-date=2023-03-02}}{{Cite web |date=2017-12-08 |title=Collaborative Communicators |url=https://wilkesmagazine.wordpress.com/2017/12/08/collaborative-communicators/ |access-date=2023-03-02 |website=Wilkes}}

In March 2020, Wilkes University temporarily suspended in-person instruction and evacuated the campus as a safety measure to address the global COVID-19 pandemic. Under the leadership of interim president Paul S. Adams, the university continued basic operations and was able to safely re-open following strict protocols. Commencement for the Class of 2020 was postponed and eventually held in-person along with the Class of 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://magazine.wilkes.edu/assets/2022/12/Vol14-01_Wilkes_Magazine_SprSum20WEB.pdf|title=Wilkes Magazine Volume 14}}{{Cite web|url=https://magazine.wilkes.edu/assets/2022/12/Wilkes_Magazine_Winter21-22-FINAL.pdf|title=Wilkes Magazine Winter 21-22}}

• Eugene S. Farley, 1936–1970, Chief Administrative Officer of Wilkes precursor Bucknell University Junior College and Wilkes University first president.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1973/09/18/archives/dr-eugene-farley-led-wilkes-college.html|title=Dr. Eugene Farley, Led Wilkes College|work=The New York Times |date=18 September 1973|via=NYTimes.com}} Wilkes' first holder of Chancellor/Honorary President title upon retirement.
• Francis J. Michelini, 1970–1975, First president to ascend from the academic ranks, after serving as Wilkes biology faculty and then academic dean.{{cite web|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/news/2015/November/wilkes-university-dedicates-building-honoring-second-president.aspx|title=Wilkes University Dedicates Building Honoring Its Second President Francis J. Michelini - Wilkes University|website=www.wilkes.edu|date=23 February 2023 }} Resigned to become President of Pennsylvania Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities.{{Cite journal |jstor = 40225019|title = Academic Freedom and Tenure: Wilkes College (Pennsylvania)|journal = AAUP Bulletin|volume = 63|issue = 2|pages = 88–93|year = 1977}}
• Robert S. Capin, '50* H'83, 1975–1984, First university alumnus to serve in presidential capacity.{{cite web|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/dr_robert_s_capin/|title=- Wilkes University|website=www.wilkes.edu|date=20 June 2015 }} Wilkes first holder of President Emeritus title upon retirement as president and returning to the business faculty.
• Christopher N. Breiseth, 1984-2001,{{cite web|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/campus-life/student-affairs/commencement/past-ceremonies/past-speakers/christopher-n-breiseth.aspx|title=2014 Graduate Commencement Speaker - Wilkes University|website=www.wilkes.edu}} First president hired as part of a national recruitment search. Retired to accept position as founding president and CEO of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute.{{cite web|url=http://blog.francesperkinscenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/The-Frances-Perkins-I-Knew-by-Christopher-Breiseth.pdf |title=The Frances Perkins I Knew |last=Breiseth |first=Christopher |date=1966 |website=blog.francesperkinscenter.org |access-date=2019-05-15}}
• Joseph "Tim" E. Gilmour, 2001-2012, Currently serves on team of Strategic Initiatives.{{cite web|url=http://www.strategicinitiatives.com/team|title=Our Team - Strategic Initiatives|website=www.strategicinitiatives.com}}
• Patrick F. Leahy, 2012–2019,{{cite web|url=https://wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/leadership/presidents-office/biography.aspx|title=Dr. Patrick F. Leahy Biography - Wilkes University|website=wilkes.edu}} Resigned effective July 31, 2019 to accept Presidency of Monmouth University in Monmouth, New Jersey.{{cite news|url=https://www.monmouth.edu/news/monmouth-university-names-patrick-f-leahy-10th-president/|title=Monmouth University Names Patrick F. Leahy tenth President - News - Monmouth University|newspaper=News |date=14 December 2018}}
• Alan Gregory "Greg" Cant, 2020–present,{{Cite web |title=About the President {{!}} Wilkes University |url=https://www.wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/leadership/presidents-office/about.aspx |access-date=2022-05-27 |website=www.wilkes.edu |language=en}} First internationally born, president having hailed from Adelaide, the capital of South Australia. On July 4, 2024 he celebrated his obtaining dual American citizenship. {{cite web | url=https://www.wvia.org/news/local/2024-07-04/president-of-wilkes-university-celebrates-first-independence-day-as-american-citizen | title=President of Wilkes University celebrates first Independence Day as American citizen | date=4 July 2024 }}

• Robert S. Capin, '50* H'83, 1974, First university alumnus to serve in presidential capacity. Promoted to president in 1975. Wilkes first holder of President Emeritus title upon retirement as president and return to the business faculty.
• Paul S. Adams, '77, '82*, 2019-2020, Second university alumnus to serve in presidential capacity and first to ascend from the student affairs division. Retired 2022 concluding forty-year career at university.{{cite web|url=https://www.timesleader.com/news/734889/wilkes-university-names-paul-adams-as-interim-president-beginning-aug-1|title=Wilkes University names Paul Adams as interim president beginning Aug. 1|last=timesleader|date=28 February 2019|website=Times Leader}}{{cite web | url=https://magazine.wilkes.edu/issue/fall-2022/ | title=Fall 2022 | date=31 October 2022 }}

File:Kirby Hall, Bucknell University Junior College, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (75641).jpg

Most of the academic buildings are located within the same city block, between South River Street, South Franklin Street, South Street, and Northampton Street. The Stark Learning Center (SLC), located on South River Street, is the largest building on campus with {{cvt|220,000|sqft}} housing classrooms, laboratories, and office space.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/239.asp| title=Stark Learning Center| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915030621/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/239.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} The facility consists of nursing, math and engineering offices and classrooms. Stark Learning Center received extensive renovation in 2018.{{cite web|url=http://timesleader.mycapture.com/mycapture/folder.asp?event=2208240&CategoryID=26411|title=Wilkes University Renovations - News - Times Leader|website=timesleader.mycapture.com|access-date=5 October 2018}}{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvJpoJiA0BE|title=New Stark Learning Center Labs Sneak Peek!|last=WilkesUVideo|date=28 March 2018|access-date=5 October 2018|via=YouTube}}{{cite web|url=https://www.thewilkesbeacon.com/news/2017/09/13/stark-learning-center-construction-updates/|title=Stark Learning Center construction updates|first=Cabrini|last=Rudnicki|access-date=5 October 2018}}

File:Downtown Wilkes Barre along the Susquehanna River.jpg

Classrooms and offices for humanities and social sciences are located in Breiseth Hall, a three-story building located on South Franklin Street, in the same block as SLC. Kirby Hall, a mansion formerly home to Fred Morgan Kirby, was renovated to house offices and classrooms for English.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/225.asp| title=Kirby Hall| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915050555/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/225.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}}

File:Wilkes university university center on main.jpg

The Cohen Science Center, a $35 million project, was established to house the biology and health sciences, chemistry and biochemistry, and environmental engineering and earth sciences departments.{{cite web| url=http://timesleader.com/news/local-news-news/1236395/Wilkes-University-buys-Bartikowsky-building| title=Wilkes University buys Bartikowsky building| author=Andrew M. Seder| date=5 March 2014| publisher=Times Leader| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915025225/http://timesleader.com/news/local-news-news/1236395/Wilkes-University-buys-Bartikowsky-building| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}}{{cite web| url=http://wnep.com/2013/10/04/a-look-inside-wilkes-new-science-center/| title=A Look Inside Wilkes' New Science Center| author=Lara Greenberg| date=4 October 2013| publisher=16 WNEP News Station| access-date=14 September 2014}} The facility has been built to LEED silver standards for environmental sustainability and allows for students to monitor energy use, water use, and general building performance to aid sustainability studies.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/cohen| title=Cohen Science Center Multimedia| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014}} The building also features a rooftop vegetation area for greenhouse purposes and to assist in reducing rain runoff.

In 2005, the university acquired the former Wilkes-Barre Call Center building and parking garage on South Main Street.{{cite web| url=http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/business/colleges-push-into-area-s-downtowns-a-trend-seen-elsewhere-1.1635177| title=Colleges push into area's downtowns, a trend seen elsewhere| author=Denise Allabaugh| date=16 February 2014| publisher=The Times Tribune| access-date=14 September 2014}} The parking garage is currently being used for student and faculty parking. The Public Safety department has remodeled and relocated to the basement of the garage.{{cite web| url=http://wilkesbarre.org/cbi/news/news.php?continue=2&table=news&article=178| title=Wilkes University Signs Purchase Agreement with City of Wilkes-Barre for Former Call Center| date=29 June 2005| publisher=Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915050551/http://wilkesbarre.org/cbi/news/news.php?continue=2&table=news&article=178| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} The Call Center building was renovated and renamed University Center on Main. The building now houses recreation facilities including tennis and basketball courts, and a rock climbing wall.{{cite web| url=http://www.bdcnetwork.com/student-center-opens-campus-wilkes-university| title=Student center opens on the campus of Wilkes University| date=11 August 2010| publisher=Building Design & Construction| access-date=14 September 2014}} In summer 2014, the building was renovated to also house the Sidhu School of Business and Leadership. On August 11, 2021, the center was formally named after Ron and Rhea Simms to be known as Simms Center on Main.{{Cite web|url=https://news.wilkes.edu/2021/08/13/dedication-ceremony-for-the-ron-rhea-simms-center-on-main-celebrated-on-aug-11/|title=Dedication Ceremony for the Ron & Rhea Simms Center on Main Celebrated on Aug. 11|date=13 August 2021}}

File:Weiss Hall Wilkes B PA.jpg

The campus offers seventeen different residence halls and apartment buildings for all levels of students, although some apartments are reserved for upperclassmen.{{cite web| title = Wilkes Residence Halls| publisher = Wilkes University| url = http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/203.asp| access-date = 2007-01-04| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061230093004/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/203.asp| archive-date = 2006-12-30| url-status = dead}} Many residence halls are located in 19th century mansions that were donated to the university, or other houses purchased by the university. Over 11 mansion and house style residence halls are used throughout the campus. Apartment style residences are found in University Towers and Rifkin Hall. Non-apartment residence halls include Catlin Hall, Doane Hall, Evans Hall, Fortinsky Halls, Michelini Hall, Passan Hall, Ross Hall, Roth Hall, Schiowitz Hall, Sterling Hall, Sturdevant Hall, Sullivan Hall, University Towers, Waller Halls (North and South), and Weiss Hall. Dr. Francis J. Michelini Hall houses students registered for the university Honors Program.{{cite web | url=https://www.thewilkesbeacon.com/news/2015/11/17/honors-college-residence-hall-receives-new-name-second-president-of-wilkes-university-francis-michelini/ | title=Honors college residence hall receives new name: Second president of Wilkes University, Francis Michelini }} First year and second year students are required to live in residence halls (commuters are exempt), and can live off-campus starting their third year.{{cite web| url=http://wilkes.edu/PDFFiles/StudentHandbook/Undergrad_Handbook_2012_2013_Upd081012.pdf| title=Wilkes University Student Handbook| date=2013–2014| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140401164836/http://wilkes.edu/PDFFiles/StudentHandbook/Undergrad_Handbook_2012_2013_Upd081012.pdf| archive-date=2014-04-01| url-status=dead}}

File:Catlin Hall Wilkes U WB PA.jpg

Traditional dormitory housing is provided at Evans Residence Hall. With four floors and about 200 students, Evans Residence Hall is the largest first-year student residential hall on the Wilkes University campus. Renovated in 2008, Chesapeake and Delaware Residence Halls were re-dedicated as Lawrence W. Roth Residence Hall, a residential hall connecting the previously separate Chesapeake and Delaware Residence Halls. It is a first year student, non-traditional residential hall house with about seventy residents and three RAs. Students living on campus have access to laundry facilities, basic cable, and local phone service.

The university purchased the University Towers apartment complex located at 10 East South Street from a private real estate company for $8.1 million. Approximately 400 students are housed in this building's 130 units.{{cite web

|title = Campus Housing

|publisher = Wilkes University

|date = 2013-01-18

|url = http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/203.asp

|access-date = 2007-01-04

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061230093004/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/203.asp

|archive-date = 2006-12-30

|url-status = dead

}} Part of the nearby YMCA building has been renovated into apartment style residences and houses upperclassman.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/265.asp| title=YMCA Building| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140722203949/http://wilkes.edu/pages/265.asp| archive-date=2014-07-22| url-status=dead}}{{cite web| url=http://citizensvoice.com/news/ymca-renovations-will-expand-w-b-facility-s-residential-areas-1.1135404| title=YMCA renovations will expand W-B facility's residential areas| author=Andrew Staub| date=21 April 2011| publisher=The Citizen's Voice| access-date=14 September 2014}} The apartments are known as 40 West.

The university partnered with neighboring King's College to operate a joint for-profit bookstore in downtown Wilkes-Barre.{{cite web| url=http://www.thewilkesbeacon.com/news/2012/09/25/students-partaking-in-city-activities-helps-economy/| title=Students' partaking in city activities helps economy | author=Amanda Leonard| date=25 September 2012| publisher=The Beacon| access-date=14 September 2014}} The new bookstore opened in October 2006, consolidating two independent bookstores into one new facility.{{cite web| url=http://wilkesbarre.org/cbi/news/news.php/news.php?continue=2&table=news&article=339| title=BARNES AND NOBLE SIGNS AGREEMENT TO BRING BOOK STORE TO INNOVATION CENTER @ WILKES-BARRE| date=31 July 2006| publisher=Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915030458/http://wilkesbarre.org/cbi/news/news.php/news.php?continue=2&table=news&article=339| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} The new bookstore, run by Barnes & Noble College Booksellers, was located in the basement and first floor of the Innovation Center on South Main Street. The bookstore included a full selection of general trade books, a full-service Starbucks cafe, lounges and study areas, and a spirit shop featuring products from both Wilkes and King's College. In 2021 the bookstore returned to the main campus no longer partnered with King's College.{{Cite web|url=https://money.yahoo.com/wilkes-kings-returning-bookstores-campuses-050100938.html|title=Wilkes, King's returning bookstores to campuses|date=11 March 2021 }} Colonel Corner is located inside the Henry Student Center and offers school supplies and spirit wear.{{Cite web |title=Colonel Corner {{!}} Campus Store |url=https://www.wilkes.edu/campus-life/colonel-corner/index.aspx |access-date=2022-05-24 |website=www.wilkes.edu |language=en}}

In August 2017, the university dedicated the newly renovated Bartikowsky Jewelers building as the Clayton and Theresa Karambelas Media and Communications Center. It houses WCLH 90.7 FM (the university radio station), the Beacon newspaper, Zebra Communications (a student-run public relations agency){{cite web|url=http://www.timesleader.com/news/673600/preview-tour-of-new-wilkes-media-center|title=New $4 million media center a 'jewel' at Wilkes University - Times Leader|website=www.timesleader.com|access-date=2018-02-01|date=2017-08-29}} and the Sordoni Art Gallery.{{Cite news|url=http://thetimes-tribune.com/lifestyles/revamped-wilkes-gallery-opens-with-warhol-exhibit-1.2250325|title=Revamped Wilkes gallery opens with Warhol exhibit|last=Jacobson|first=Charlotte L.|access-date=2018-02-01|language=en-US}}

The Darte Center is the home of performing arts at Wilkes University. Built in 1965 to replace the Chase Theater (a converted carriage house),{{Cite news|title=Wilkes Theater Marks 20th Birthday: Benefactor Dorothy Dickson Darte Saluted|last=Roccograndi|first=Betty|date=October 23, 1985|work=The Times Leader}} it includes the Darling Theater, which seats 478, a black box theater which seats 48, and a two-story music building.{{cite web|url=http://www.wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/campus/buildings-academic-administrative/darte-center.aspx|title=Darte Center - Wilkes University|website=www.wilkes.edu|language=en|access-date=2018-02-01}} The land on which the Darte Center sits was donated by the Wyoming Valley Society of Arts and Sciences. The building was financed by an anonymous donation of $1 million by Dorothy Dickson Darte and dedicated in her honor after her death. In late October 2022 Wilkes University announced the receipt of a 2.5 million grant that will finance major renovations to the center, particularly to bring the performing arts center to ADA compliance.{{cite web | url=https://news.wilkes.edu/2022/10/27/wilkes-university-receives-2-5-million-in-state-funding-for-enhanced-accessibility-in-the-dorothy-dickson-darte-center/ | title=Wilkes Receives $2.5 Million in Funding for Enhanced Accessibility in the Dorothy Dickson Darte Center | date=27 October 2022 }}

In 1968, Wilkes College dedicated the newly constructed Eugene Shedden Farley Library and named it after the college's first president.{{Cite web|url=https://wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/campus/buildings-academic-administrative/farley-library/index.aspx|title=Farley Library|accessdate=16 July 2023}} The library initially contained four special collection rooms - dedicated to Admiral Harold Stark, Eleanor C. Farley, Gilbert McClintock, and Wyoming Valley residents of Polish heritage.{{Cite news|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/academics/archives/_archives/wilkes-beacon/WB28E.7.pdf|title=Convocation Set Tonight to Honor Wilkes President|date=November 1, 1968|work=The Beacon|access-date=January 29, 2020}} The Polish room was designed by Stefan Mrozewski in the Zakopane Style, and Stefan Hellersperk carved the furniture.{{Cite web|url=https://wilkes.edu/academics/library/about-us/the-polish-room/index.aspx|title=The Polish Room|website=Wilkes University|access-date=January 29, 2020}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.thewilkesbeacon.com/top-stories/2013/11/19/polish-room-keeps-heritage-tradition-alive/|title=Polish Room: Keeps heritage, tradition alive|last=Stencavage|first=Alyssa|website=The Beacon|access-date=2020-01-29}} The first Norman Mailer Room was dedicated in 2000,{{Cite news|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/wilkes-magazine/_assets/Spring_2008/WilkesSpring2008.pdf|title=Remembering Norman Mailer, 1923-2007|last=Lennon|first=Michael J.|date=2008|work=Wilkes Magazine|access-date=January 29, 2020|issue=Spring|page=26}} and the second Norman Mailer Room and Collection were dedicated in October 2019.{{Cite web|url=https://susanmailer.com/2019/11/10/susan-interviewed-on-art-scene/|title=Susan Interviewed on Art Scene|date=November 10, 2019|website=Susan Mailer|access-date=January 29, 2019}} The Harold Cox Archives room, which houses the Wilkes University Archives, was dedicated in 2004 and 2013.{{Cite web|url=https://wilkes.edu/academics/library/about-us/index.aspx|title=About E.S. Farley Library - Wilkes University in PA - Wilkes University|website=wilkes.edu|access-date=2020-01-29}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.citizensvoice.com/news/archivist-s-name-now-part-of-wilkes-history-1.1539911|title=Archivist's name now part of Wilkes history|first=Michael P. | last=Buffer|website=www.citizensvoice.com|date=21 August 2013 |language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-29}} As of 2019, the library contained 200,000 books and bound journals, 75,000 electronic journals, and 430 newspaper and journal subscriptions, as well as circulating technology like iPads and laptops.{{Cite news|url=https://news.wilkes.edu/2019/02/06/library-lovers-month-ten-things-you-didnt-know-about-the-farley-library/|title=Library Lovers Month: Ten Things You Didn't Know About the Farley Library|last=Mayk|first=Vicki|date=2019-02-06|website=Wilkes News|language=en-US|access-date=2020-01-29}}

Wilkes University offers majors in science, education, engineering, business, and liberal arts for undergraduate and graduate students.{{cite web

|title = Undergraduate Majors and Minors at Wilkes University

|publisher = Wilkes University

|url = http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/143.asp

|access-date = 2007-01-12

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061230093049/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/143.asp

|archive-date = 2006-12-30

|url-status = dead

}} The academic programs at Wilkes University are divided among three colleges:{{cite web

|title = Wilkes Colleges

|url = http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/299.asp

|access-date = 2007-01-04

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061230093114/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/299.asp

|archive-date = 2006-12-30

|url-status = dead

}}{{cite web| url=http://www.thewilkesbeacon.com/news/2013/11/04/honors-college-option-for-growth/| title=Honors college option for growth| author=Nicole Zukowski| date=4 November 2013| publisher=The Beacon| access-date=14 September 2014}}{{Cite web |last=D'Amico |first=Gabrielle |date=2022-05-06 |title=Wilkes University Realigns Academic Colleges |url=https://news.wilkes.edu/2022/05/06/wilkes-university-realigns-academic-colleges/ |access-date=2022-05-24 |website=Wilkes News |language=en-US}}

• College of Arts and Sciences
• College of Business and Engineering
• College of Health and Education

Wilkes University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education with specific programs having disciplinary accreditation from various relevant accrediting bodies.{{cite journal| title=Wilkes University: Tabular Data." The College Blue Book. 36th ed. Vol. 2: Tabular Data| date=2009| publisher=Macmillan Reference USA| journal=College Bluebook}}

The College of Arts and Sciences includes programs in the performing arts, humanities, behavioral and social sciences, environmental sciences and natural sciences. The College of Business and Engineering programs in Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET). The school's Nesbitt School of Pharmacy is one of seven pharmacy schools in Pennsylvania.{{cite web| url=http://www.pharmacychoice.com/education/pharmschools/pa.cfm| title=U.S. News and World Report 2008 Pharmacy Schools rankings| date=2008| publisher=Pharmacy Choice| access-date=14 September 2014}} The school is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.{{cite web| url=http://www.uspharmd.com/school/pharmacy/wilkes_university/| title=Wilkes University – Online Pharmacy & Pharmacy Technician Degrees| publisher=USPharmD| access-date=14 September 2014}} The Passan School of Nursing undergraduate baccalaureate program in Nursing is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nurse Examiners and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership within the College of Business and Engineering has several business degree plans and includes one of the most popular undergraduate majors, management.{{cite web| url=http://www.princetonreview.com/WilkesUniversity.aspx| title=Wilkes University| publisher=Princeton Review| access-date=14 September 2014}} Select undergraduate programs of the Sidhu School are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.{{cite web|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/bulletin/current/undergraduate/schools-colleges/the-jay-s-sidhu-school-of-business-and-leadership/index.aspx|title=The Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership - Wilkes University|website=www.wilkes.edu}} In 2024, all graduate and undergraduate programs in the Sidhu School received accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. {{Cite web |title=https://www.aacsb.edu/accredited/w/wilkes-university |url=https://www.aacsb.edu/accredited/w/wilkes-university |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=www.aacsb.edu |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Sidhu School of Business Accreditation {{!}} Wilkes University |url=https://www.wilkes.edu/academics/sidhu-school-of-business-leadership/accreditation/index.aspx |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=www.wilkes.edu |language=en}}

For over fifty years, Wilkes University has hosted a federally funded Upward Bound program on campus starting in 1967. It is a program for low-income and first-generation students with college potential and aspiration to prepare for college.United States. United States Congress. Joint Committee. A Directory of Urban Research Study Centers. Washington: United States Congress, 1977.{{Cite web|url=https://www.wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/leadership/provosts-office/upward-bound/index.aspx|title=Upward Bound|website=www.wilkes.edu|accessdate=16 July 2023}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.pahomepage.com/news/upward-bound-celebrates-50-years/|title=Upward Bound celebrates 50 years|date=17 July 2017|accessdate=16 July 2023}}{{Cite web|url=https://news.wilkes.edu/2022/07/11/wilkes-university-awarded-2-2-million-upward-bound-grant/|title=Wilkes University Awarded $2.2 Million Upward Bound Grant|first=Gabrielle|last=D'Amico|date=11 July 2022|accessdate=16 July 2023}}

Wilkes University offers over a dozen programs within its graduate school programs. The Wilkes Graduate Teacher Education Program hosts classes online and at classroom sites across Pennsylvania.{{cite web

| title = Graduate Teacher Education Schedule of Courses Spring 2007

| url = http://static4.mathcs.wilkes.edu/scheds/coursessp07grd.html

| access-date = 2007-01-04 }} Some of the Wilkes Graduate Teacher Education programs are hosted entirely online. Other graduate programs such as nursing, creative writing, and bioengineering are also offered at the university. The MBA program within the Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership was ranked among the top ten MBA programs in the state of Pennsylvania.{{cite web| url=http://www.cpbj.com/article/20140314/AWARDS/140319813/MBA-Programs:-Jay-S-Sidhu-School-of-Business-and-Leadership| title=#8 Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership| date=2014| publisher=Central Penn Business Journal| access-date=14 September 2014}}

In U.S. News & World Report's 2022 rankings, Wilkes ranked #234 in the National University Overall category, #82 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, #205 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs, and #413 in Nursing.{{cite news |url=https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/wilkes-university-3394/overall-rankings#:~:text=Wilkes%20University%20Ranking%20Factors,widely%20accepted%20indicators%20of%20excellence. |title=Wilkes University Rankings |publisher=U.S. News & World Report}} The Princeton Review, in their 2022 rankings, ranked Wilkes for the "Best Northeastern" rankings.{{Cite web|url=https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings?rankings=best-northeastern&sort=name|title=Best Colleges in the Northeast | The Princeton Review|website=www.princetonreview.com|accessdate=16 July 2023}}{{cite web | url=https://news.wilkes.edu/2021/09/13/wilkes-university-recognized-in-national-rankings/ | title=Wilkes University Recognized in National Rankings | date=13 September 2021 }}

Wilkes University students take part in a number of traditions on campus most around new student orientation and during the seven days leading to Spring commencement (a.k.a. Senior Week). Including:

• Colonel Kickoff, celebrating the beginning of the fall athletics season.
• Homecoming Dinner/Dance (typically at Genetti's or The Woodlands).
• Homecoming Week Banner design competition and Residence Hall outdoor decorating.
• ROTC, Nursing and Pharmacy pinning ceremonies upon commencement.
• Senior Salute
• Community Service project during Orientation Week and Senior Week.
• President's parent/ family reception during Senior Week (typically at Weckesser Hall).
• President's Commencement Dinner/Dance (typically at Genetti's or The Woodlands).
• Promenade of graduates through campus led by bagpipers to the commencement site. This includes touching the foot of the John Wilkes statue in the center of campus and proceeding through the Wilkes arches, through the gateway Fenner quadrangle and along South Franklin Street.
• Graduates may receive diploma from parent(s) [upon permission] if the parent(s) are employed by the university at the time of commencement.
• Senior Class President last in line of the graduating class to walk across stage to receive diploma.
• Sports Alumni Hall of Fame induction annual ceremony at the Marts Center.

Wilkes University has numerous student-run clubs and organizations that are recognized and funded by the student government. Many of the clubs are athletically focused, representing sports including crew, lacrosse, running, skiing, volleyball, and ultimate Frisbee. Clubs associated with academics and majors represent psychology, sociology, criminology, and pre-pharmacy. Other clubs are formed around common interests such as animal advocacy, vegetarianism, anime, and robotics.{{cite web

|title = Wilkes Clubs & Organizations

|publisher = Wilkes University

|url = http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/134.asp

|access-date = 2007-01-17

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061230093309/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/134.asp

|archive-date = 2006-12-30

|url-status = dead

}}

Wilkes has an active student media, including a television station within the Karambelas Media and Communications Center, FM radio station WCLH (call letters stand for Wilkes College Listens Here) which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, weekly newspaper The Beacon, a literary magazine Manuscript which celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022, and yearbook Amnicola which will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2023. The university's newspaper was originally published as the Bison Stampede and annual was published as the "Bucknell Junior College Amnicola" in 1934.{{cite web| url=http://www.thewilkesbeacon.com/top-stories/2014/01/30/eight-decades-of-covering-the-campus/| title=Eight decades of covering the campus| author=Christine Lee| date=30 January 2014| publisher=The Beacon| access-date=14 September 2014}} The newspaper was later renamed The Beacon, and the annual was shortened to simply "Amnicola". The university paper and annual will celebrate their 90th anniversaries in 2024.

Wilkes University Programming Board, an entertainment and event planning organization, has hosted events that featured Pennsylvania based bands such as Live and Fuel, and national favorites including Alanis Morissette, Rusted Root, Joan Osborne, Dashboard Confessional, Lifehouse, Busta Rhymes, Hoobastank, Jack's Mannequin, and Billy Joel.{{cite web |url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/2838.asp?item=61938 |title=Wilkes Event Details |publisher=Wilkes.edu |date=2011-03-18 |access-date=2011-12-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929120819/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/2838.asp?item=61938 |archive-date=2011-09-29 |url-status=dead }}

File:State St Battery Pl td (2018-08-23) 20.jpg

Wilkes University launched the first collegiate marching band in the northeast Pennsylvania region in 2014.{{cite web| url=http://citizensvoice.com/news/wilkes-to-start-region-s-first-collegiate-marching-band-1.1583010| title=Wilkes to start region's first collegiate marching band| author=Matt Bufano| date=10 November 2013| publisher=The Citizen's Voice| access-date=14 September 2014}} The university said that the new marching band will be a welcomed new tradition and it will contribute to a growth in school spirit. The band was disbanded in 2021 due to budget concerns.{{cite web | url=https://www.citizensvoice.com/news/education/wilkes-ending-marching-band-program/article_2c6234b0-cbbb-5e50-b897-d5fc1843b696.html#:~:text=Wilkes%20University%20is%20ending%20its,Gabrielle%20D%27Amico%20said%20Tuesday | title=Wilkes ending marching band program | work=Wilkes-Barre Citizens' Voice | date=26 May 2021 }}{{cite web | url=https://www.standardspeaker.com/news/wilkes-ending-marching-band-program/article_45be2606-36ea-5ad3-b1b2-209433bbe4e5.html | title=Wilkes ending marching band program | date=26 May 2021 }}

The Frank M. and Dorothea Henry Student Center (HSC) is the student center on campus. The HSC was originally built in 1999, and has continued to serve the students through the present day. The Henry Student Center seeks to provide on-campus activities for all the students of Wilkes as well as maintain partnerships within the community that accentuate the student and community experience. A game room is also located in the student center, complete with multiple pool tables, TVs with wiis connected, ping pong, and other games.

The building is home to most of the student organizations on campus, as well as the dining facilities that are run by Sodexo Incorporated and a campus bookstore run by Barnes and Noble. All recognized student organizations can reserve space, or at least a meeting area to conduct business. The student-run journalism yearbook Amnicola and newspaper The Beacon, have both business office and production space in the first floor. The second floor holds the university Edward Elgonitis Sr. Mailroom or simply "Eddie's Mailroom", shipping services and student mailboxes.

Within the building second floor corridor are framed portraits of every study body president to have served as the head Student Government leader since the inception of the school.

Large meeting space that can be reserved by the Wilkes community are the Savitz Multicultural Room that includes a student painted multicultural mural that was led by long time art faculty member Sharon Cosgrove, Miller Meeting Room and the Paul S. '77 '82 and Jean Ritter '78 Adams Commons (formerly the Student Center Ballroom).{{cite web | url=https://today.wilkes.edu/index.php/2023/06/01/adams-commons-dedication-friday-june-2nd/ | title=Adams Commons Dedication – Friday, June 2nd – Today @Wilkes | date=June 2023 }}

The building was named after Frank M., who served as an executive officer of the local family owned bus transportation company Martz Group, a service that continues to be used by countless generations of Wilkes students to return to and from campus for visits home using the many bus routes along the northeastern corridor and its connection services. His wife, Dorothea, was an active volunteer in the surrounding community.

Renovations for the new Henry Student Center began shortly after its initial opening to expand space in 2005 for student meetings on the 2nd floor, and continued with moderate renovations most recently with the Adams Commons (formerly the Student Center Ballroom) in 2023.

The Student Government organization at Wilkes hosts many annual events for undergraduates such as Homecoming and Winter Weekend, an annual themed weekend event in which teams of students participate in various competitive challenges such as team skits and eating contests.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/345.asp| title=Student Government| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915025615/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/345.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}}{{cite web| url=http://www.thewilkesbeacon.com/news/2013/02/05/winter-weekend-is-near/| title=Winter Weekend is near| author=Julianna Salvato| date=5 February 2013| publisher=The Beacon| access-date=14 September 2014}} The Wilkes Student Government also coordinates all the other university organizations and clubs by formulating student activity budgets and reviewing fund requests. The organization is composed of various executive positions and councils including the president, presidents of Commuter Council, Inter-residence Hall Council, representatives, and a president from each class.

There is currently one Aramark operated full-scale buffet-style dining facility on the Wilkes campus located within the Henry Student Center on the second floor. A location designated as the Rifkin Cafe includes a convenience store and sandwich shop (where convenience store-like food and beverages are sold) is located on the first floor of the Henry Student Center. There are also small shops operated by Aramark throughout the campus such as the Colonel Gambini Cafe Starbucks Coffee Shop named in honor of long-time food services staff member Glenn Gambini.{{cite news | url=https://www.citizensvoice.com/lifestyles/wilkes-university-cafe-honors-food-service-worker/article_b45a1122-ee3c-5f66-b923-4295bcab50db.html | title=Wilkes University cafe honors food service worker | newspaper=Wilkes-Barre Citizens' Voice }}{{cite web | url=https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/timesleader/name/glenn-gambini-obituary?id=21777777 | title=Glenn Gambini Obituary (2011) - Wilkes-Barre, PA - Times Leader | website=Legacy.com }}

Detachment 752 of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps is located at Wilkes University. Established in 1973, AF ROTC Detachment 752 has trained and prepared hundreds of young men and women for future careers as USAF officers.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/319.asp| title=Air Force ROTC| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915030835/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/319.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} Wilkes also offers Army ROTC, but the classes are held at nearby King's College.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/1653.asp| title=Army ROTC| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915025413/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/1653.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} When students graduate from Wilkes and complete the ROTC program, they earn a commission as an officer in their respective military branches. The detachment serves 12 other crosstown colleges and universities in Northeast Pennsylvania.

File:Wilkes Colonels W mark.svg

The Wilkes University Colonels compete in NCAA Division III athletics.{{cite web| url=https://www.ncaa.com/schools/wilkes| title=Wilkes University| publisher=NCAA| access-date=14 September 2014}} The university is a member of the Landmark Conference. Wilkes offers numerous intercollegiate sports team organizations at the university. Wilkes men's intercollegiate sports teams include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, tennis and wrestling. Wilkes women's intercollegiate sports teams include basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, volleyball and wrestling.

In 2007, the Wilkes University baseball team was the MAC Freedom Conference champion.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/BSB_0527142408.aspx?path=baseball| title=Baseball Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}} Prior to that, the baseball team had been conference champion in 1994 and 1977.

In the 2007-2008 men's basketball season, the Wilkes men's team went 13-12 overall and finished fourth in the conference. Previously, the men's basketball team was Freedom Conference champion for the 2000–2001 season, 1998–99 season, 1997–98 season, and 1995–96 season.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/MBB_0527144152.aspx?path=mbball| title=Men's Basketball Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}}

The Wilkes University football team was the MAC champion for the 2006 season, and previously, the football team had been conference champion in 1993 and 1974.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/FB_0527143400.aspx?path=football| title=Football Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}} In the mid-1960s the Wilkes College football program had 32 straight wins—the fourth longest streak in college football history at the time.{{cite web| url=http://citizensvoice.com/sports/wilkes-football-1965-69-1.1422845| title=WILKES FOOTBALL 1965-69| author=Neil Corbett| date=30 December 2012}} It began in the fourth game of the 1965 season and ended in 1969. From a 34–0 victory over Ursinus to a 13–7 loss to Ithaca. Rollie Schmidt coached the Colonels from 1962 to 1981. His teams went 90-73-1 winning five MAC titles, two Lambert Bowls (best small college team in the East) and one Timmie Award (best small college team in the country).

The men's tennis team was MAC Freedom Conference champion in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/MTEN_0527145006.aspx?path=mten| title=Men's Tennis Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}}

The Wilkes wrestling team has won a total of 14 Middle Atlantic Conference team championships. In 1974, the team won the NCAA Div. III national championship, afterward, the Colonels moved to the NCAA Div. I ranks for 25 seasons before returning to Div. III ranks in 2000.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/858.asp| title=Wilkes Wrestling History| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915030602/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/858.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}}

The Wilkes University women's field hockey team was MAC champions in 2013 and 1999.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/FH_0527142938.aspx?path=fhockey| title=Field Hockey Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}} In 2008 the women's field hockey team was ranked 18th in the nation by the NCAA.{{cite web |url=https://www.ncaa.com/ |title=NCAA |website=www.ncaa.com |access-date=March 16, 2023}}

In 2005, the Wilkes women's soccer team was the MAC Freedom Conference champion.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/WSOC_0527141513.aspx?path=wsoc| title=Women's Soccer Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}} The following year, the Wilkes women's softball team won the MAC region in 2006.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/SB_0527140211.aspx?path=softball| title=Softball Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}} Prior to that, the women's softball team was the MAC champion in 1982.

The women's tennis team at Wilkes was the MAC Freedom Conference champion in 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/WTEN_0527141844.aspx?path=wten| title=Women's Tennis Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}} The women's volleyball team was the conference champion in 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011.{{cite web| url=http://gomacsports.com/sports/2014/5/27/WVB_0527140439.aspx?path=wvball| title=Volleyball Champions| publisher=Middle Atlantic Conference| access-date=14 September 2014}} The women's ice hockey team won the inaugural MAC Conference championship in 2025.{{Cite web |date=2025-03-08 |title=Wilkes Women's Ice Hockey Victorious in Inaugural MAC Women's Ice Hockey Championship |url=https://gowilkesu.com/news/2025/3/8/womens-ice-hockey-wilkes-womens-ice-hockey-victorious-in-inaugural-mac-womens-ice-hockey-championship.aspx |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=Wilkes University Athletics |language=en}}

Women's golf and women's swimming, both NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, were introduced to Wilkes University's sports roster in the 2014–2015 season in the Middle Atlantic Conference. Women's wrestling was introduced for 2025-2026.{{Cite web |title=Wilkes University Adding Women's Wrestling as Varsity Sport Set to Begin in 2025; Laudenslager Named Director of Wrestling, Chander Tabbed Associate Head Men's Wrestling Coach |url=https://gowilkesu.com/news/2024/8/14/general-wilkes-university-adding-womens-wrestling-as-varsity-sport-set-to-begin-in-2025-laudenslager-named-director-or-wrestling-chander-tabbed-associate-head-mens-wrestling-coach.aspx |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=Wilkes University Athletics |language=en}}

The university sponsors and hosts academically focused lectures series for its students and community. The Max Rosenn Lecture Series in Law and Humanities was established in the 1980s, and has brought many speakers to the university including author Norman Mailer, Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, and journalist Bob Woodward.{{cite press release

|title = Bob Woodward to Deliver Rosenn Lecture

|publisher = Wilkes University

|date = Apr 7, 2006

|url = http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/194.asp?item=9088

|access-date = Jan 5, 2007

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20061230100400/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/194.asp?item=9088

|archive-date = 2006-12-30

|url-status = dead

}} The Allan P. Kirby Lecture in Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship has also hosted speakers including journalist and television host John Stossel, and former New York governor George Pataki.{{cite web

|title = Allan P. Kirby Lecture Series

|publisher = Wilkes University

|url = http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/4296.asp

|access-date = 2011-05-31

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110929121158/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/4296.asp

|archive-date = 2011-09-29

|url-status = dead

}} The United Nations lecture series was launched in the 2011–2012 academic year and the program brings U.N. officials to the campus to speak to students throughout the year through a partnership with the Higher Education Alliance of the United Nations.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/4308.asp| title=Other Lectures at Wilkes| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915050557/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/4308.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}}

For over 60 years Wilkes University has been the host of the Annual High School Mathematics Contest as sponsored by the Luzerne County Council of Teachers of Mathematics (LCCTM).{{cite web| url=http://www.timesleader.com/stories/Math-contest-at-Wilkes-adds-up-to-scholarships,120910| title=Math contest at Wilkes adds up to scholarships| author=JANINE UNGVARSKY| date=15 February 2013| publisher=The Times Leader| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915030443/http://www.timesleader.com/stories/Math-contest-at-Wilkes-adds-up-to-scholarships,120910| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} Every year juniors and seniors from Luzerne County high schools come to Wilkes University to participate in the competition. The first-place winner in both the junior and senior divisions are awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Wilkes University.

The Wilkes University Math and Computer Science Department hosts the Eastern Pennsylvania division of the Mid-Atlantic Region of the annual ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest. Wilkes University has been host to the event for the last 5 years. A total of 8 schools host teams in the Mid-Atlantic Region.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/194.asp?item=55075| title=Wilkes University Is Regional Site for International Computer Programming Competition on Nov. 7| author=Vicki Mayk| date=2 November 2009| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://archive.today/20140915003336/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/194.asp?item=55075| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} The competition is sponsored by IBM and the contest challenges the participants knowledge and creativity in solving computer programming problems.

Annually, hundreds of Pennsylvania high school students attend this annual media oriented event. Each year features a notable keynote speaker, hands-on workshops in the areas of telecommunications, journalism and public relations and panel discussions and presentation from media professionals and personalities. A high school journalism contest and awards ceremony is also a main event.

The Wilkes University Theatre presents a full season of dramas and musicals on the main stage as well as a season of student produced black box productions at the Darte Center.{{cite web| url=http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/3833.asp| title=Theatre Arts| publisher=Wilkes University| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140915030640/http://www.wilkes.edu/pages/3833.asp| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} The Division of Performing Arts presents a total of four shows annually at the Darte Center.

• Ann Bartuska, ecologist and biologist
• Jackson Berkey, classical music composer, pianist, and singer
• Marty Blake, former general manager of the Atlanta Hawks franchise{{cite news| url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/10/sports/basketball/marty-blake-nba-scout-dies-at-86.html?_r=1&| title=Marty Blake, Sharp Judge of N.B.A. Talent, Dies at 86| author=Bruce Weber| date=9 April 2013| work=New York Times| access-date=14 September 2014}}
• Robert Bruggeworth, president and chief executive officer of Qorvo
• Gabriel J. Campana, former mayor of Williamsport, Pennsylvania
• Catherine Chandler, poet
• Jesse Choper, constitutional law scholar and former dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law
• Catherine D. DeAngelis, first woman and the first pediatrician to become the editor of the Journal of the American Medical Association{{cite news| url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/10/09/us/woman-is-named-editor-of-ama-journal.html| title=Woman Is Named Editor of A.M.A. Journal| author=LAWRENCE K. ALTMAN| date=9 October 1999| work=New York Times| access-date=14 September 2014}}
• William R. Evanina, the NCIX, the National Counterintelligence Executive of the United States, and director of the U.S. National Counterintelligence and Security Center{{Cite news|author=Bolus, Kathleen |date=29 June 2014 |title=Midvalley resident rises in the ranks of FBI |url=http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/midvalley-resident-rises-in-the-ranks-of-fbi-1.1711108 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702091450/http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/midvalley-resident-rises-in-the-ranks-of-fbi-1.1711108 |archive-date=2 July 2015 |url-status=live}}
• Kevin Gryboski, professional baseball player and college baseball coach
• Donora Hillard, author
• Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, actor
• Marlon James, Jamaican novelist{{cite web| url=http://instituteofjamaica.org.jm/featured/3679/marlon-james-2013-silver-musgrave-medallist/profficer| title=MARLON JAMES, 2013 SILVER MUSGRAVE MEDALLIST| date=15 October 2013| publisher=Institute of Jamaica| access-date=14 September 2014| archive-url=https://archive.today/20140915003351/http://instituteofjamaica.org.jm/featured/3679/marlon-james-2013-silver-musgrave-medallist/profficer| archive-date=2014-09-15| url-status=dead}} and winner of the 2015 Man Booker Prize
• Evana Manandhar, Miss Nepal 2015{{cite web|url=http://www.ekantipur.com/2015/04/18/top-story/evana-manandhar-crowned-miss-nepal-2015/404236.html|title=Evana Manandhar crowned Miss Nepal 2015|publisher=Ekantipur.com|date=18 April 2015|access-date=19 April 2015|author=Ekantipur Staff|archive-date=19 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150419013004/http://www.ekantipur.com/2015/04/18/top-story/evana-manandhar-crowned-miss-nepal-2015/404236.html|url-status=dead}}
• Eddie Day Pashinski, Pennsylvania House of Representatives member{{cite web| url=http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/member_information/house_bio.cfm?id=1112| title=Eddie Day Pashinski| publisher=Pennsylvania House of Representatives| access-date=14 September 2014}}
• Steve Poleskie, artist and writer, professor emeritus at Cornell University
• Bo Ryan, college basketball coach
• Nisha Sharma, novelist{{Cite web |last=Kita |first=Meghan |date=March 15, 2022 |title=Happily Ever After |url=https://www.muhlenberg.edu/news/2022/sharmaprofile.html |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=Muhlenberg College |language=en}}
• Edward Weber, regional president at Toll Brothers Inc.
• Frank Zane, professional bodybuilder and three-time Mr. Olympia

{{reflist}}

{{ccat}}

• {{oweb}}
• [https://gowilkesu.com/ Athletics website]

{{Colleges and Universities in Pennsylvania}}

{{Northeastern Pennsylvania Colleges and Universities}}

{{United Collegiate Hockey Conference}}

{{Landmark Conference navbox}}

{{authority control}}

Category:Buildings and structures in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Category:Universities and colleges established in 1933

Category:Universities and colleges in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania

Category:1933 establishments in Pennsylvania

Category:Private universities and colleges in Pennsylvania