Newman University’s Catholic heritage is the foundation of a Newman University education, and one that student Marie O’Neal holds dear.
Marie, who is majoring in international studies and minoring in Spanish and math, is an energetic and mission-driven student with aspirations to make the world a better place. She will graduate in May 2021.
During her time at Newman, Marie has taken on a multitude of service and leadership roles, especially within Campus Ministry. She has served as a campus minister, organized service trips and retreats, and worked as service coordinator.
She has also served as a liturgical minister, organizing Mass, Adoration and other Campus Ministry events. Marie participated in Guatemala Study and Serve where she was often recognized as the student leader and took initiative to improve engagement and communication within the group of participants.
Marie said, “I chose Newman because of the welcoming community, small class sizes and academic opportunities.” Her faith has always been important to her and Newman provided her with ample opportunities to grow in that faith and develop relationships with fellow students.
Marie is a highly involved, bright, positive individual whose story is unique, but her positive Newman experience is not.
Students often express finding a family at Newman. The small community fosters their gifts and abilities and encourages students to pursue what they’re passionate about.
Marie has found she is not only passionate about her faith but also women’s advocacy, health and education.
Like the majority of Newman students, Marie is able to attend Newman due to scholarships that she earned for her academic performance and service. As a private university, those scholarships are only made possible by generous donors in the Newman community.
She is thankful for the scholarships that have made her Newman education possible. “These scholarships have given me the opportunity to have an impactful and unique college experience. At Newman I have been able to explore so many areas of academic study, which I will continue to reflect on throughout my life,” she said.
