For Jaden Schaefer, life is about giving. After all, “Serving him by serving his people,” was what she wrote on her graduation cap in May 2025 — a message that perfectly captured her heart for others and her celebration of earning her degree in nursing from Newman University.
Schaefer first stepped onto the campus of Newman University at age 17 when she moved from New Jersey to Wichita. Her time at Newman allowed and encouraged her to pursue both of her passions: collegiate bowling and nursing.
Like many college students, Schaefer experienced both excitement and challenges in the pursuit of her purpose. Still, she exemplified dedication and successfully overcame obstacles.
Although it was difficult to be so far from home, Schaefer grew resilient throughout her four years at Newman. She said she was called to inspire the people around her, encouraging classmates, friends and teammates to become leaders — all while being a role model herself.
“Moving 21 hours away from friends and family at such a young age was a big feat,” she said. “But it’s really shaped me; it made me more mature and resourceful. I learned so much, and I’m so glad that I was able to do it here at Newman because my experience has been so amazing.”
Schaefer’s drive to serve others fueled her through it all. As a kindergartener, Schaefer was asked to write down what she wanted to be when she grew up. She immediately knew the answer.
“I wrote ‘nurse’ with a little nursing cap. My mom’s a nurse, so she’s been a huge influence. I’ve seen the hard work she’s done, and I wanted to be on that same level — caring for people like she does.”
Lifelong lessons
As a student-athlete, Schaefer learned the value of teamwork and humility.
“Bowling taught me that you’re not always going to be the person needed at that time,” she said. “Sometimes your role is to stand in the background and cheer for your friends. That’s just as important as being the one on the front lines.”
Every role matters, and every act of kindness counts, she believes.
Professors such as former Associate Professor of Nursing Melissa Romaneschi and Assistant Professor Rachel Cheek left lasting impressions and pushed her to develop not only as a clinician but also as a compassionate leader.
Whether it was smiling at classmates, remembering the names of staff members in the library or offering encouragement to teammates, Schaefer grew exponentially and left her mark through meaningful gestures.
“I just want to be remembered for kindness,” she said. “Smiling at people, waving, treating everyone with love — that’s what I hope people think of when they think of me.”
Start your nursing journey at Newman today
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Newman University provides a unique educational experience, highlighting challenges students will face in their careers as healthcare professionals, to equip them to transform society.
