Belmont Abbey College has announced the passing of Howard “Humpy” Wheeler, Jr., a notable alumnus and influential figure in motorsports. Wheeler, originally from Belmont and a graduate of the Abbey’s Preparatory School, was instrumental in establishing the college’s Motorsport Management program in 2007.
Wheeler contributed to Belmont Abbey College in several capacities. He served two terms on the Board of Trustees and received both the Grace Award and the Sport at the Service of the Spirit Award for his service. In 2008, he was inducted into the Alumni Wall of Fame, and he received an honorary degree from the college in 2019. His connection to Belmont Abbey extended through his family, with two of his children also graduating from the institution.
Dr. Joseph Wysocki, Interim President of Belmont Abbey College, stated, “Humpy Wheeler’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on our college community. As an alumnus, trustee, and generous benefactor, he demonstrated an enduring commitment to the Abbey and its mission. His leadership helped shape the direction of the college, and his support opened doors for countless students. Humpy believed in forming not just professionals, but principled leaders—and his impact will continue to be felt through the lives of the alumni and students he championed so passionately.”
The Motorsport Management program began after Wheeler encouraged then-President Dr. Bill Thierfelder to launch it in 2007. Together with his daughter Patti Wheeler ‘86, Wheeler guided its development into one of few such programs nationwide that connects academic study with industry experience. The program has produced graduates who now work at organizations including NASCAR and various racing teams and tracks across the country. In Fall 2025, Belmont Abbey expanded this initiative by introducing what it describes as “the nation’s only Master of Arts in Motorsport Management,” aiming to further establish its role within motorsport education.
Dr. Trey Cunningham, Chair of Motorsport Management at Belmont Abbey College, commented on Wheeler’s influence: “Humpy was instrumental in shaping the lives of young adults aspiring to enter the motorsport industry. His vision was to create a pathway for students to turn their passion for racing into a profession, and that vision has become a reality for so many. Through his industry insight, storytelling, and unwavering support, Humpy inspired confidence and ambition in everyone he met. His legacy is the foundation of our program, and it will continue to drive our students forward for generations to come.”
Beyond Belmont Abbey College, Wheeler served as president and general manager at Charlotte Motor Speedway where he became known for innovative promotions within motorsports. He was inducted into both the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame (2004) and International Motorsports Hall of Fame (2006). He is set to receive posthumous recognition with NASCAR’s Landmark Award during its Hall of Fame Class induction ceremony scheduled for January 2026.
Abbot Placid Solari reflected on Wheeler’s relationship with Belmont Abbey: “Humpy and Pat Wheeler have been personal friends as well as generous benefactors of Belmont Abbey and Belmont Abbey College and many other worthy causes. Humpy grew up on the abbey campus and always remembered his roots here. He enjoyed an amazing and happy life and was blessed with a beautiful marriage and family. He was the entrepreneur’s entrepreneur. I can imagine he is advising God about some new extravaganza to liven up heaven!”
