When Theodore Sponsel enrolled at Newman University, he was discerning a call to the priesthood.
“I was in the seminary for two and a half years, praise God,” Sponsel said. “And in my time at Newman, I just had some amazing professors. Just the love that they showed for the academics, the environment in the classroom and their willingness to teach us. … It was really amazing.”
Although Sponsel ultimately chose a different path from religious life, his learning experiences at the Catholic university in Wichita left a profound impact. He earned his Associate of Arts in May 2025, but took away much more than a degree.
He credits Assistant Professor of Medieval Philosophy John Brungardt, Ph.D., as being a standout professor for him not just academically, but also personally. Sponsel describes Brungardt as a key mentor in helping him “become the man I am today.”
“The presence Dr. Brungardt brought as a man of God was inspirational for me,” Sponsel explained. “The way that he structured his classes was unique to each room. He could read a room very well, and brought joy to the classroom. He had jokes here and there that you had to pay attention to catch — and that made it a lot of fun.”
Balancing studies with fun
Outside the classroom, Sponsel was active in Campus Ministry, where he found a “community within a community” through gatherings like weekly Wednesday night activities, Adoration in St. John’s Chapel, board games and even ultimate frisbee.
“It was a lot of fun to get out in the community, meet a lot of new faces and make lasting friendships. I met some really, really great people who had just a great love for our Lord,” he said.
Sponsel also participated in intramural sports like basketball, dodgeball and flag football, and enjoyed attending campus events such as basketball games.
A prime time for reflection
Beyond academics and activities, Sponsel said Newman provided something even more meaningful: quiet.
“One of the biggest recommendations for Newman is part of their (mission) statement. To transform society, that is first done in one’s heart,” he said. “And to do that you need quiet. You need time to think about that. I was able to do that here.”
He noted that the campus isn’t “bustling with people all the time, and that’s okay.” He cherished opportunities for quiet reflection, such as walking across campus between classes.
“We’re a Catholic university that is deeply rooted with the sisters of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ. I had time to ask and reflect on those questions like, ‘Where are your next steps? Where is our Lord guiding you? Where is God calling your heart?’ I transformed myself and, in ways I don’t even know, hopefully transformed those around me.”
Looking to the future
While Sponsel’s path no longer leads toward the priesthood, he leaves Newman with clarity and optimism for the future. He is currently pursuing a career in construction with a long-term goal to start a business alongside his two older brothers.
“I love family and that would be just amazing,” he said.
As for how he hopes to be remembered in life?
“Hopefully I’ll be remembered for my smile,” Sponsel said with a grin. “I love to smile. A smile brings more joy than words can … so hopefully, my smile.”
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