Second-year Newman University student Landon Roy is a young man of many interests.
The radiologic technology student is a talented musician, future radiation therapist and at one point, could type more than 200 words per minute on a stenograph machine that court reporters use.
A schedule of classes, clinicals, a part-time job as an X-ray technologist and many music commitments can be challenging to balance. But for Roy, hard work and passion have always been at the core of his focus.
“I would not be where I am without my initiative and passion,” Roy said.
Hitting high notes
Music has been a driving force for as long as Roy can recall. He began piano and violin lessons as a child and hasn’t stopped playing since. Growing up, his dream was to work as a studio musician for TV and film soundtracks.
“Many people do not realize that when they are watching a movie, most of the time there is a live ensemble of musicians recording the film score,” Roy said.
While Roy’s career goal is no longer to pursue music full time, it will always be “an important part of my life as a creative outlet and side hustle,” he said.
In fact, 2025 marks his fourth season as a section violinist with the Wichita Symphony Orchestra — a part-time, fully professional orchestra.
“Our regular musicians are from many different states across the country, and our guest musical artists that come to solo with us are many times from all over the world,” Roy said.
Roy spends most of his weekends performing at Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center. All students — including those at Newman University — can purchase Wichita Symphony tickets for $10 at https://wichitasymphony.org.
From orchestra pits to X-rays
Roy’s ultimate goal is to become a radiation therapist, with X-ray serving as his stepping stone into the field.
Radiologic technology allows Roy to make meaningful impacts on future patients as they undergo difficult treatments. Roy also loves the combination of advanced technology and compassionate care.
Roy describes his experience in the Newman radiologic technology program as “challenging but incredibly rewarding.” He credits his professors for their strong academic preparation and hands-on clinical experiences.
‘The program is well-structured, and the faculty is deeply invested in student success,” he said. “I would especially like to thank the faculty in the radiologic technology program — Professor Jeffery Vaughn, Kristin Weakland, Sherry Ewing and Jeskan McGovern — for their outstanding teaching and support. I’ve had the opportunity to apply what I learn in the classroom directly to real-world scenarios during clinical rotations, which has been invaluable.”
He also likes that the program prepares students for a wide variety of situations, with rotations in multiple facilities across Wichita and surrounding areas.
“This is a huge advantage for building confidence and skills,” Roy said. “My favorite aspect of attending Newman is the tight-knit and supportive community. There’s a sense of belonging that makes the experience more personal and fulfilling. I also appreciate how the school emphasizes service, which aligns with my values.”
No matter where his future may take him, Roy will continue working hard and pouring his passion into all he does.
Explore radiologic technology
The radiologic technology degree at Newman University empowers graduates by giving them the skills necessary to be a highly valued employee through providing high quality, compassionate patient care.
