For Newman University’s Major Gifts Officer Bryn Kovacic, fundraising isn’t just about numbers — it’s about relationships, vision and strengthening a university she believes in.
“It’s something I’m very passionate about,” the Wichita native said.
Kovacic, who began her Newman role on Feb. 3, fell in love with the higher education sector through her previous experiences at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita. There, she worked as the residency program coordinator and student services coordinator, serving medical students, program directors and faculty alike.
Growing professionally in a university setting wasn’t just a goal for Kovacic; it was a must.
“The major gifts officer position allows me to build relationships and converse with an array of individuals, all while working towards a common goal of building a bigger and better institution and creating opportunities for our students,” she said.
Newman Vice President of Institutional Advancement Bob Beumer said Kovacic’s relationship-building skills and passion for higher education will resonate with alumni, friends and supporters of Newman.
“We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm and excitement that Bryn brings to the position,” Beumer said. “We look forward to her help in continuing the positive momentum of Newman University’s efforts.”
Building a brighter future through fundraising
Kovacic enjoys fundraising as it encourages her creativity, communication and customer service skills. She also approaches its challenges with patience and persistence, recognizing that meaningful contributions take time to cultivate.
“You have to be strong-willed and keep at it in order to one day see a positive result,” Kovacic said.
She plans to pour that same determination into Newman’s biggest fundraising needs, including the Sacred Heart Hall revitalization project.
Sacred Heart Hall.
The century-old building has housed dorm rooms, classrooms, the chapel, a student activities center, archives and work spaces for hundreds of staff members since it was built in 1922. President Kathleen Jagger, Ph.D., MPH, describes Sacred Heart Hall as “more than just a building; it’s a living embodiment of our university’s past, present and future.”
Kovacic is collaborating with the Sacred Heart Hall revitalization task force to enhance the building’s accessibility and modernize infrastructure — all while preserving its history.
“This is a large project and we still have a long way to go, but I am excited to be a leading part of it,” she said.
Educational journey and personal life
Kovacic earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from Oklahoma State University. There, she was a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Although she left Kansas for college, she returned to Wichita as “this is where home is to me,” she said.
Kovacic is the youngest of four girls and “loves being an aunt” to her five nieces and nephews.
“They’re my entire world,” she said. “I actually recently became the godmother to my youngest niece.”
Kovacic attributes much of her work ethic and drive to her mother, Cheri, the founder and namesake of Cheri’s Bakery in Wichita. It was inspiring for Kovacic to witness her mom’s determination to build a successful small business, she said.
“My mom opened her first storefront when I was 4 years old, so I was involved in her business my entire life,” Kovacic said. “She sold it to two of her longtime employees a few years ago so that she could retire, but it still exists and is the same bakery as when my mom left it.”
Community service, a core value of Newman University, is also a cornerstone of Kovacic’s life. In 2025, Kovacic plans to become a big sister through the local chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters, a one-to-one youth mentorship program.
As a new employee, Kovacic describes Newman University’s best feature as “the people.”
“After my first week, it felt as if I had been working at Newman for months already because I integrated into the department so easily and had already formed several connections with coworkers,” she said. “Everyone on my team has been so wonderful and welcoming.”
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Newman University’s mission focuses on educating all students through Catholic values, academic excellence and a culture of service.
