Newman launches task force to improve athletic facilities

In a major move to enhance the athletic and academic experiences of its student-athletes, Newman University announced the establishment of a task force to lead a significant fundraising initiative.

This effort focuses on modernizing outdoor athletic facilities with new artificial turf and advanced lighting systems for the baseball, soccer and softball venues.

The initiative, titled “Continuing Maria’s Mission: The Next 90 Years Begin With A Champion Like You,” aligns with the university’s long-term vision of fostering an environment where athletes excel both on the field and in academics.

The names behind the task force

The task force is comprised of members who bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to Newman’s athletic programs:

Ginny Wylie ’93, a sociology major and retired Wichita Police Department officer, currently serves on the National Alumni Board. She played women’s soccer at Newman and received the Spirit of Acuto Distinguished Alumni Award in 2017.

Jay Holmes ’89, also a sociology major, played and coached women’s soccer at Newman. He was honored with the Spirit of Acuto Distinguished Alumni Award in 2018.

Cyle Barnwell attended Newman for three years before transferring to Emporia State. He is the CFO of Keystone Solid Surfaces and played men’s basketball at Newman. He is also a member of the Jet Open committee.

Justin ’05 and Krystal Crumley ’05 bring a unique partnership to the task force. Justin, a business management major who earned his MBA at Newman and played on the men’s bowling team, is currently an assistant bowling coach. Krystal, a nursing major and women’s bowling team alumna, is a school nurse in Andover schools.

Adam Hunter ’98, an elementary education major, played on the men’s soccer team and is head soccer coach at Butler Community College. He is also in the Newman University Athletic Hall of Fame.

Dan Carsey ’02, a history major and Ablah Award recipient, played men’s basketball at Newman and currently works at Hall Estill in Oklahoma City. He has been invited to join the committee.

Chris Clawson, an honorary alumnus from 2015, attended Newman and played men’s baseball in 1983. He is in the Athletic Hall of Fame and is now the General Manager of Gymtech.

Strategic enhancements for Newman Athletics

The proposed upgrades are designed to significantly reduce weather-related cancellations due to the durability and lower maintenance needs of artificial turf. This will ensure more reliable game schedules, provide athletes with more consistent training and performance opportunities and allow for greater community use during off seasons. Enhanced lighting will improve visibility for evening events, boosting the spectator experience.

Director of Athletics Joanna Pryor believes the upgrade will have a big impact for Newman.

“By modernizing these facilities, we not only boost our competitiveness in the MIAA conference but also open up new revenue streams by renting out these state-of-the-art venues to the broader Wichita community during off-seasons,” Pryor said.

Boosting academic and athletic excellence

This initiative reflects Newman University’s dedication to offering the best opportunities for its student-athletes, ensuring a balance between their athletic and academic commitments. The improved facilities will allow student-athletes to spend more time in classrooms and labs, minimizing disruptions caused by inclement weather.

Additionally, the enhanced fan experience is expected to energize university athletic events, fostering a lively atmosphere that supports the teams in their pursuit of conference titles.

A call to action for alumni and friends

Newman’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement Bob Beumer is helping coordinate the task force’s efforts.

“Investing in these upgrades is not just about enhancing facilities; it’s about creating a legacy of excellence and opportunity for future Newman athletes,” Beumer said.

Newman is reaching out to alumni and friends of the university to support this critical project. The fundraising initiative is designed to garner support from the university’s broad network of alumni and community partners.