You can visit newmanu.edu/lent to read today’s reflection.
St Paul says that “now we see as through a veil, indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then, face to face.” There is much to see, to understand, to ponder! This Sunday, we find many contrasting elements in the life of Jesus, as He approaches His final agony and death. The “Covenant” referred to in Jeremiah, is still a living reality in our relationship with God, the God who reveals Himself in the beauty of all created things and living beings! The Covenant is gift!
How amazing that this God/man, Trinity, who share their life with humans and instill in us the capacity to desire union with the Holy One! In re-living the life of the historic Christ, we enter into and prepare to experience again the death and Resurrection of Jesus. How heart-rending Jesus’ cry to the Father to spare him from this hour! As always, Jesus gives total surrender to the Father’s will! Now, after centuries of human greed, hunger, hate, racism, materialism, and domination, all creation cries out with Jesus in this terrible suffering! The hour is coming when Jesus will be glorified, but first the grain of wheat must die.
In God there is no time; all is Present. In the evil we do, we are part of Christ’s Crucifixion. It is all NOW, THERE IS NO PAST IN GOD! Still there is Divine Mercy and forgiveness, and we have the promise, ”When I am lifted up, I will draw all things to myself!”
Sister Stephanie Heskamp ASC
“I will fall into your hands, rather than sin in the sight of the Lord.” For me, the story of Susanna serves as a reminder of how we, as sinners, frequently rush to judgement. Before Daniel stepped in, the assembly was quick to believe the elders over Susanna, without so much as an examination. How many times in our lives are we tempted to think similarly? To cast judgement without asking questions? To read only the headline and neglect to think deeply? Susanna knows that God is the one, perfect and righteous judge, and she wisely chooses to sacrifice her reputation and life to do right by God. That’s inspiring!
Courtney Klaus ‘20
St. Joseph is described as a just man. I remember hearing these words when I was a child. As I continue through this Lenten season, reflecting on the role of St. Joseph in the life of Christ leads me to consider my own life. St. Joseph did the day-to-day things that are required of a father and provider. Are my actions in my daily life, the actions that I perform as a part of my vocation, those of a just man? Am I giving a just day of work for a just day of pay? Am I giving my wife and children a just amount of attention? It’s easy to look at others and judge, but when I look through my own actions, do I meet the definition of “a just man”? Let us pray daily for the grace to do the little things that are required in life.
Alan Oberley, Professor of Chemistry
Today’s readings invite us to extraordinary trust in God. Am I willing to undergo the “fire of death” in whatever form it presents itself to be faithful to God? Am I a son/daughter of Abraham and God who knows deeply in my heart the Truth that will make me free? Jesus assures us that, if we love Him, Truth will be known to us, and we will be disciples. How much am I willing to risk to be known as a disciple of Christ?
Mary ‘68
“I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and he is the judge…At this, they picked up stones to stone him….”
Our Lord saves, and he is just. Jesus works through us, and we work through his Word. I don’t want anyone’s glory; I just want to be saved. I don’t want to “just” speak his words; I want to rejoice in his name! Stones may kill us, but they will NEVER kill our spirit – that I know, and that I live for. May I be judged and blessed with grace.
Gabriel Trevino, Newman Student
On this Friday of Lent, we are reminded of the challenges faced by the prophets and Jesus himself in proclaiming the truth. Jeremiah’s lamentation echoes the struggles many face when speaking truth in the face of opposition. In John’s Gospel, we witness Jesus’ confronting those who refuse to accept his divinity, yet he remains steadfast in his mission. Both readings urge us to remain resolute in our faith, even when faced with adversity. In our Lenten journey, let us draw strength from the examples of Jeremiah and Jesus, trusting in God’s guidance and persevering in our witness to the truth.
Geoff Louvar, Admissions Digital Marketing Manager
During Jesus’ teaching mission, he encountered many who had faith and others who were confused or filled with doubt or lacked faith. The latter wanted to kill Jesus, to take this troublemaker from their midst. Jesus’ teachings about self-denial and the importance of serving others are key takeaways in the Gospel. He emphasizes that following Him requires a willingness to let go of personal desires and ambitions in favor of a life dedicated to serving God and others. Today we are encouraged to pray for a stronger understanding and acceptance of the mysteries of faith, as well as the assurance that God’s plan is being fulfilled through Jesus. This will help guide us towards a deeper understanding of God’s love and salvation plan, encouraging a personal and communal transformation that aligns with the heart of the Lenten season.
Jeff Lipp ’88 Board of Trustees
From Ash Wednesday through Easter, Newman Community Members shared their thoughts about the daily Mass readings for the 2024 Lenten Season
On March 6, students, staff, faculty and community members gathered for a city proclamation on campus. District 6 Council Member and Vice Mayor Maggie Ballard made an appearance at the event and recognized the important work social workers provide to the Wichita community and beyond.
“A lot of the issues that we’re dealing with in regards to mental health and housing, a lot of it we need social workers to help provide those wraparound services,” Ballard explained. “Social work is the root that helps make all of it work.”
The proclamation emphasized that social work is one of the fastest growing occupations of the decade.
Yelando Johnson, program director of Newman’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program and the division chair of social work and associate professor, was pleased to help recognize the “tireless work of social workers in the community” with the city proclamation.
“It meant a lot for our program especially,” Johnson said. “This inaugural proclamation speaks volumes to our community and partners, and I’m just so grateful to see everyone here to support.”
These 10 students and alumni of Newman have proven a commitment to social work, making a difference in educational settings, city positions, as first responders, caseworkers and within private practice.
As a MSW student, Khan’s desire to enter the field is deeply rooted in her passion for breaking generational curses and advocating for those who may not have a voice.
“I’m driven by the belief that every person deserves a chance to share their story and receive the help and understanding they need.”
In October, Newman University Master of Social Work student Maggie Papalia, who’s also a graduate of the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program, was awarded a prestigious $10,000 fellowship from the Council on Social Work Education. Her work met the mental health needs of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of color) communities as a culturally competent behavioral health professional.
“Everything I have in my life today is the result of the work I’ve put into my recovery. It was really powerful to start from nothing.”
After 25 years as a paramedic, Winters decided to pursue his Master of Social Work degree to help people even further.
“Working for EMS, I certainly saw that I had a blind window I needed to fill with knowledge in order to better understand those who are hurting in the community so that we can help them out better.”
Burke, a member of AFSCME (the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees) Local 3972, works as a social caseworker with Adams County.
“We’re always taught to help others out, but I don’t think we’re ever really taught to advocate for ourselves, so this has been a different form of social work, which I enjoy.”
Since graduating with her MSW degree, Corral has been volunteering with Silver Key Senior Services in Colorado Springs as a veteran companion.
“The professors and the literature can only teach a student so much, but the heart of the individual is what makes us the best in the helping business.”
Hanson is the director of the BSW program and assistant professor at Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kansas.
“If we do good work with kids and families today, we’ll potentially create new opportunities for future generations of that family to not have to deal with some of the same trauma.”
Horn, a Master of Social Work graduate, works at the Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging — Family Caregiver Support Center, the same organization where she had her field placement as a Newman student.
“Social work is probably the most versatile degree a person can get, especially if your desire is to help advance equity and social justice.”
Trejo works as the impact specialist for Wichita nonprofit Empower, an organization whose goal is to provide educational resources to Wichita’s North End to increase the quality of life for the community.
“The best way to encourage others to participate and lend a hand is by showing them that there is a bigger picture than what they are able to see at first glance.”
Nolasco ’20 is the owner of Feeling & Healing Therapy, which provides services to children, pre-teens, adolescents and adults within clinical and educational systems across southeast Kansas.
“My goal is to help those that are wanting the help, provide them an outlet for growth.”
In 2022, Harbaugh worked with Wichita’s Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Homeless Outreach Team.
“I have been able to do all levels of social work in this position. I work on the micro-level when working with individuals to obtain and maintain housing; the mezzo-level by working with other partner agencies to be able to achieve the best outcomes with clients. Macro work has included collaborations with the wider community.”
Gomez, a Master of Social Work student, worked alongside Harbaugh with the Homeless Outreach Team.
“It has truly been a pleasure learning at Newman and working with the Homeless Outreach Team,” Gomez said. “They care about their job and even if they can’t help with the resources they have, they will try and reach out to others who might be able to help.”
Our program offers an empowering experience that prepares students with skills for broad, entry-level, generalist social work practice.
Explore the highlight reel of the exciting contests, speakers and events from all of February’s Heritage Month festivities.
On Feb. 1, Father Adam Grelinger, chaplain of Newman University, celebrated Mass for the Newman community in honor of St. Maria De Mattias’ feast day.
The feast day for St. Maria De Mattias, foundress of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, is celebrated by ASC sisters around the world, and in and around St. Maria De Mattias’ hometown of Vallecorsa, Italy. It is a major celebration of her life and legacy that lives on today.
Senior Alondra Valle won $100 in the Heritage Month scavenger hunt when she found the hidden Newman medallion on Feb. 9, the final day of the search.
“I thought it was going to be in different buildings each day, so it was hard to find,” Valle said. “I guess I had my guardian angel with me!”
Every year, Newman University celebrates the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) by recognizing the leadership efforts of one student, faculty and staff member.
The 2024 honorees were faculty member Yelando Johnson, program director of Newman’s Master of Social Work program and the division chair of social work and associate professor; staff member Andi Giesen, dean of students; and student Alondra Valle.
Alumna J. Michelle Vann presented “Beyond February: Unearthing Hidden Gems in Black History” during a special noon luncheon in the Dugan Conference Center.
The prompt for this year’s Heritage Month contest was “What advice would St. Maria or St. Newman give to students living in today’s world?”
Matthew Fowler, a freshman, won with his three-page essay answering the prompt; Beth Griffiths, a junior, won for her essay titled, “A Love Unbound and Free;” senior John Suffield won for his graphic art entry with St. Maria De Mattias.
Brad Richards of The Kansas African American Museum visited campus and presented a history of Black inventors and their integral contributions, from traffic lights and refrigerated trucks to home video security systems.
One of the longest-standing Newman traditions, the beloved St. Newman High Tea event was held Wednesday, Feb. 21, following the St. Newman Mass. The teatime event has been going strong since the mid-1980s and celebrates both St. Newman’s birthday and his English tradition.
In the spirit of Newman Giving Day, HiFi Productions performed during a Dueling Pianos night at Newman University.
The aim for 2024 Giving Day was to secure 200 donors, but the community went above and beyond with gifts from 234 individuals. Among these generous contributors were 49 current Newman students, which emphasized the active involvement of students in supporting their university. A grand total of $62,812 was raised for Newman University.
More than 120 individuals participated in the seven-round trivia competition, including a group of students from Cowley County’s Quiz Bowl. Father Adam Grelinger started the event with a prayer, calling upon God as the “knower of all trivia,” and jokingly asking “May Professor Larry Straub and staff member Clark Castle forget everything they know.”
Six lucky participants won door prizes simply for attending — thanks to Wizard’s Alley in Wichita — and three Newman students took home the $300 gift card prize pack for winning first place.
A leap year homecoming night at Newman brought together roaring student crowds, alumni from the ages and student-athletes to celebrate the end of Heritage Month.
Students sported their best attire during an evening filled with music, delicious food and memory-making moments with Newman friends.
Newman theater presented the new adaptation of “Treasure Island,” featuring a tale of piracy on the high seas based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson.
Save the date for the spring musical April 25-27.
Thank you to each and every student, faculty and staff member, ASC sister, Newman alum and community member who helped make the 2024 Heritage Month a success!
You can visit newmanu.edu/lent to read today’s reflection.
Sister Tarcisia Roths ASC, former president of Newman
The message in today’s scripture presents us with images of love, light and life: God’s love for us, shown in his gift to us of the light who is Christ, who brings us life. The message of God’s love is clear: “God has compassion on his people.” “God is rich in mercy, because of his great love for us.” “God so loved the world that he gave his only son.”
God sent his own son — Christ, the light — into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. By coming into the light of Christ, we who were dead in sin now live this gift of God’s love. “It is not our own doing, it is God’s gift.” We are truly God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus, to lead the life of good deeds that God has prepared for us. With such a powerful affirmation of God’s love, and empowered by the light of Christ, we are challenged to bring God’s life into our broken world.
Debbie and Kent Shank, parents of a Newman student
In Isaiah, we are promised a vision of heaven that is beyond our imagination. Isaiah speaks of Jerusalem being transformed into a place of delight and joy. In this Lenten season, we are invited to release the burdens and shortcomings of our past, knowing that God is making all things new and there will be an end to sorrow and suffering.
Jesus, returning to Galilee, is met by a father whose son is very ill. This father’s heartache resonates with us as we face many trials and challenges in life. The father’s faith is tested when Jesus responds without complete reassurance: “Go, your son will live.” Lent calls us to a deeper faith and to trust, even in the absence of miracles.
Caleb Garner, student seminarian
As I learn and experience more of life, I contemplate what my role is in all of it? What does God ask of me and how can I respond? What God asks of me is to obey the voice of his servant Jesus. Though this may cause me to walk in darkness at times and not see the effects of the light or cause me to lie down in torment at times, I know that if I trust in and rely on the Lord, God will bring me to everlasting life. I will walk by the light of the fire that God kindles in my heart if I but obey and trust and, most importantly, love.
Alysha Keck, student
In Isaiah, the Lord says that just like a mother does not forget her nursing child so will God remember His people. Having witnessed the strength of the bond between mother and infant, these words provoke the image of God holding me in His arms and giving me life. The Israelites during that time probably interpreted this as a promise of freedom from their captivity, but looking forward to the Messiah, I can see the even bigger promise of salvation fulfilled, as shown in John. As we come closer to the remembrance of Christ’s loving sacrifice, let us “sing for joy” and give thanks for the life we have received from our loving Father!
Robert ’82 and Vanessa Jacobs Condreay ‘20
Actions speak louder than words. In the Gospel, Jesus says that He could have the testimony of other people, even John the Baptist, but that his works are the best testimony about who He is. But this is a challenge to us. What are our works saying? Would the person on the street recognize us as a Christ follower based on our actions? Moses stood in the gap to plead with God for mercy on His chosen people. Jesus intercedes on our behalf and sends us the Holy Spirit to empower us for works that will testify about Him.
Anonymous staff member
Prejudice and evil blind us, we are told in the Book of Wisdom, and prevent us from “knowing the secret purposes of God.” This was also true for the people of Jesus’ time. “Yet we know where this man comes from.” How could the Messiah possibly come from Nazareth? Each of us has our blindness, our inability to see the good in every person and sometimes in ourselves. We need to “rev up” our prayer as we enter these last days of Lent and ask for “insight” to know the one who created and loves us and every other person. God is very near, within us — let God give you wisdom and new sight.
Sister Therese Wetta ASC
“No man has ever spoken like this man.” This response by the temple guards in today’s Gospel is as true now as it was then. But why should we be surprised? Jesus is the Word — the Word of God who is Truth and Life and Love poured out, even to the shedding of each drop of His Blood. Jesus is the “gentle lamb, led to the slaughter.” (Jeremiah) What is Jesus saying to me today?
The aim for 2024 Giving Day was to secure 200 donors, but the community went above and beyond with gifts from 234 individuals. Among these generous contributors were 49 current Newman students, which emphasized the active involvement of students in supporting their university. A grand total of $62,812 was raised for Newman University.
In addition to the giving games, Newman hosted a Dueling Pianos event Feb. 23 and a Pop Culture Through the Decades Trivia Night Feb. 28, which both benefited Giving Day efforts.
At trivia night, more than 120 individuals took part in the seven-round trivia competition, including a group of students from Cowley County’s Quiz Bowl. Father Adam Grelinger started the event with a prayer, calling upon God as the “knower of all trivia,” and jokingly asking “May Professor Larry Straub and staff member Clark Castle forget everything they know.”
Six lucky participants won door prizes simply for attending — thanks to Wizard’s Alley in Wichita — and three Newman students took home the $300 gift card prize pack for winning first place.
Director of Student Activities Joshua Prilliman, who served as the trivia night host, said the best part of the event was that it brought more than just Newman community members to campus.
“One lady walked up to Andi Giesen (dean of students) and made a $1,000 donation right there,” Prilliman said. “I think it’s pretty special that she could have done it from a computer, but we gave her an opportunity to come to campus and be part of the community. Now our efforts are extending beyond Newman. … I think that’s the coolest thing on the planet.”
Director of Annual Giving Laura Hartley emphasized the importance of bringing people together throughout all 24 hours of Giving Day.
“There are lots of ways people can spend their money and many organizations to donate to, but choosing to support Newman is an investment in the future unlike any other,” Hartley said. “You get to be a silent contributor to someone else’s story, helping them accomplish their goals and I think that is a pretty amazing thing.”
I witnessed staff hearing stories from an alum of the 1960s, overheard faculty and students trash-talking before the start of trivia and alums and students socializing at the student booth. It was truly a community affair.
Laura Hartley
Several students, alumni and community members participated in giving challenges and drawings for prizes. For the following individuals, giving back paid off even more than they anticipated.
Special videos were unlocked on social media when Newman University reached 50, 100 and 150 donors. At 50 donors, Professor Alan Oberley conducted an explosive experiment with flour and a sifter; at 100, the Newman chorale sang a “thank you” to donors; when 150 donors were reached, the Newman cheer and dance team “flipped out” with excitement and gratitude for Newman donors.
Many donors’ money went even further thanks to the following Giving Day matches. Newman University is grateful for the following for their generous matching offers:
On behalf of Newman University, Hartley would like to acknowledge every person for choosing to support the Catholic university on Newman Giving Day.
“This Giving Day we certainly came together as a community,” Hartley said. “And for students to give on Giving Day just blows me away. That act is them acknowledging that while they are the present of Newman University, they want the future of this institution to be just as bright as it is today.”
Giving Day may be over, but your gifts make a difference for students no matter when you give them.
Sister Tarcisia Roths, ASC, said she loves coming back for as many Newman basketball games as she can, “but especially for homecoming.
“It’s that special time when everybody renews their love for Newman, and over the years my love has only grown,” Roths said. “I hope to see more alums here at the games, it’s always fun to see more of you coming back and attending.”
The women’s basketball team started strong against the Griffons of Missouri Western State University on Feb. 29, with noteworthy baskets from sophomores Monica Redondo, Valeriya Lioukina and senior Amiya Josey. The Jets were eventually defeated by the MIAA regular season champions by a final score of 105-38.
In the men’s game, the Jets jumped put to an “electric start” with sophomore Sam Somerhalder scoring five of Newman’s first nine points. Another sharpshooter early in the game was sophomore Jacob Joe, whose three-pointer gave Newman one of its biggest leads of the game. Western would take control of the game in the second half to win 86-68.
Both teams will conclude the 2023-24 season in Edmond, Oklahoma, on Saturday, March 2, when the Jets take on the University of Central Oklahoma.
One of the most renowned traditions of Newman homecoming night is the crowning of the student king and queen, which took place at the halftime of the men’s game.
For Dean of Students Andi Giesen, this homecoming night was especially sentimental. Her first day on the job at Newman was one year ago on homecoming night when she served as the emcee for the 2023 crowning.
“In that year, I have developed an even deeper appreciation for the diversity of students that come to Newman University,” Giesen said. “I’m inspired by the students we work with every day, and proud our Student Life team can help give them a safe, secure, emotionally happy and joyful experience here at Newman.”
This year, Student Life received more than 30 nominations for homecoming royalty.
“I’m really proud of our team and Student Life,” Giesen said. “We’re trying to reach as many students as possible this year, and the number of students who were nominated to be on the homecoming court showed us that the team is doing effective things to reach students, to bring them together and connect them to campus.”
The 2024 kingly court consisted of seniors Asher Khokhar, Joshua Dessenberger, Chase Wiebe, Felix Tellez Ramirez and Luca Penteado. The female candidates for queen were Martina Lolli, Marie Brunet, Elise Helfrich, Amiya Josey and Hope Strickbine.
Following a dramatic drum roll from the bleachers, Director of Student Activities Joshua Prilliman announced the homecoming king and queen: Wiebe and Helfrich.
Both were humbled “even to be nominated,” but it was a heart-stopping moment when their names were called out as the winners.
“I was very surprised because I know there were a lot of great candidates,” Helfrich said. “I feel honored because it means I must be some sort of role model to the student body. I’m humbled.”
For Wiebe, “I just want to know who nominated me,” he said with a smile. “I don’t even know how I got on the court, but I’m very honored to win this. It’s a pretty good feeling.”
Helfrich and Wiebe’s Newman experiences were memorable from the very beginning. Newman University provided a home for community building, a rich education and personal growth as leaders.
“When I first visited, I loved that it was a Catholic campus where I could go to Mass every day and receive the sacraments,” Helfrich said. “Campus Ministry was a big part of it, and also I’m going into the healthcare field so I knew that the biology program would prepare me well.”
Helfrich’s orthodontist served as an inspiring role model to her, and she was drawn to his holistic approach to caring for patients. She not only received this person-first education from Newman professors like Michael Bradley, Ryan Huschka, Jenna Persons and Chaplain Father Adam Grelinger, but also lived it out in her work as a residence assistant and member of the Student Government Association.
Helfrich’s ultimate goal as a future dentist is to infuse her faith into her profession, serving as “the hands and feet of Christ to everybody.” She is excited to pursue this future and has received early acceptance to the University of Missouri – Kansas City.
Wiebe is also pursuing a health care career, which was one reason he decided “Newman is the place for me.”
“My high school chemistry teacher really made a big impact on me, and the professors at Newman added to my love for chemistry,” he said. “Being on the basketball team made it feel even more like a family.”
His goal is to heal those who are sick, help as many individuals as he can and “be generous with the blessings I’ve been given,” he said.
Wiebe will always remember his years at Newman fondly thanks to the transformative professors, coaches and friends he’s formed as an athlete on the men’s basketball team.
“Newman really is a family,” Wiebe said. “Hopefully I’ve made lifelong friends and relationships I can carry on for the rest of my life.”
Join the campus community that empowers students to shape their future and their impact on the world around them.
You can visit newmanu.edu/lent to read today’s reflection.
On this third Sunday of Lent, we are reminded in the gospel acclamation that God so loved the world that we were given the Son. When I was young, our church had a huge, beautiful, larger-than-life-size crucifix hanging over the altar. It made a lasting impression on me of love poured out. It said to me, “This love has been given to you. Live out of this love.” I believe that’s our goal in life. Receive God’s love and let it spill over into our everyday life.
Reflecting on the gospel, I’m finding myself called to put God first. If I want to see where God fits in my life, I look at how I spend my time. It is good to spend time with God. But we never think we have enough time for all that happens every day, let alone have time to spend with God. My awareness of God in my life can be as simple as my daily thoughts. I am grateful for the people I’m with — thank you, God. Steeped in worries, I might tell God I could use some extra grace right now. I can daily believe that God is with me and blesses my every step and thought and action.
I can live as if God is with me in all ways — because God is.
Today’s readings reveal God’s presence in unexpected places: Naaman found healing in the muddy waters of the Jordan; Nazareth did not realize their neighbor Jesus was the Messiah. It makes me wonder where have I overlooked God in my life? This Lent, may we all open ourselves to His manifestations, wherever they may be.
As Lent progresses, we must continue with perseverance! The devil tempts us to stop, especially on days when we fail. But on days of failure or struggle we must rise to the occasion for today is our day of salvation. For as Azariah prays, “So let our sacrifice be in your presence today as we follow you unreservedly for those who trust in you cannot be put to shame.” Azariah keeps faith though things in life tell him otherwise. We mustn’t lose faith in God. If we are desperate for God’s help or fear that we cannot continue any longer with our Lenten observances, we must remind ourselves that God is worth it all. Ponder the question, “Where is God loving me and where am I refusing him?”
In Matthew, Jesus says to Peter about forgiving his neighbor, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times.” Forgiveness is a necessary aspect of our lives if we are to live for Christ. If we have a grudge with a friend or someone we know or if I am angry with myself, then listen to Christ’s words. Forgive others. Forgive yourself. Keep in mind the question, “Where am I unable to receive God’s mercy into my own heart by ways of not forgiving others or myself? How can I be more like God in mercy?
Yahweh calls us to always keep in mind the laws He has taught us. This is the way we will have glorious life in the land God is giving us. All peoples will recognize that our God is a God near and dear to His people’s hearts. We need to be vigilant in keeping this reality always in our minds. God is a God of love. God’s greatest desire is to live in relationship with His people and to bring us into the land of eternal life and joy. God has created us solely for this purpose. People will marvel at the love and fulfillment displayed as we live the “laws and customs” He has taught us, the greatest of which is love. Jesus tells us that He is the fulfillment of all the laws and prophecies; they were leading to Him who is the beginning and the end. We are called to bring each other to His kingdom by helping each other keep God’s laws, culminating in the love of self and neighbor. We are walking each other home by our lifestyle which catches others’ attention.
Come, sit under the acia tree during this time where we can rest, where we are sheltered from the storms of life, where God will comfort us with food, life-giving “sweet water” and strength. Believing that our responses will not, could not, should not be an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. For Jeremiah teaches us we are sheltered, shaded by the thick branches and deep roots of the eternal promises of light and love and not the might of arms, drones or machines that kill. During this time of mid-Lent let us find time to sit under the acia tree.
In Mark, Jesus responds to a scribe’s question about the greatest commandment. Jesus emphasizes the centrality of love: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Love is the foundation of true wisdom. Hosea echoes this theme. “The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them.” God responds with abundant mercy, promising restoration and healing. In our lives, we face adversities and we must trust and pray for God’s Love to heal all wounds.
A theme of today’s readings has to do with human’s naive expectations of God. The presumptuous Israelites expected God to deliver them in spite of their wickedness. Jesus’ followers thought that the kingdom of God would appear in Jerusalem “immediately” as Jesus was ending his traveling ministry and approaching the city. A number of Old Testament prophesies stated that the Jews would reject the Messiah. Jesus teaches that being self-righteous is not the disposition for prayer. In our prayer today, let us reflect on what was surely in our Lord’s heart and mind as he neared the time and place of his horrendous suffering and death on the cross.
Attending a college that will help infuse the spiritual and moral principles in your chosen field of study is important. Read on to discover the benefits of attending a Catholic college.
The Student Success Center acts as the hub for several student resources at Newman. The space has a Jets Welcome Center, a soundproof testing center, two conference rooms (one of which is reservable to students), a study hall kiosk to record study hall hours and the Sacred Grounds Coffee & Café.
Here, students can also take advantage of makeup exams, academic accommodations, disability services and F1 international student services. Students can also check out laptops in the Student Success Center, which can be reserved at the front desk.
Appointments for testing, tutoring, career services and room reservations can be made online at Accudemia or at the front desk of the Student Success Center.
Newman University offers both in-person and online tutoring services to all Newman students seeking help with their studies. Appointments can be scheduled online at Accudemia or at the front desk of the Student Success Center in Dugan.
Each student also has access to online tutors (24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year) at TutorMe.com. To access TutorMe.com, a student will go to any of their Canvas courses and click TutorMe in the Navigation bar.
Meet your student tutors
At Newman, Career Services exists to help students find resources and tools that will help them maximize their potential — whether it be in the form of off-campus jobs, career planning, internships or volunteer opportunities.
Located in the Student Success Center, Career Services is located in the Student Success Center. Students can register for career events or search for jobs using Handshake.
All full-time graduate and undergraduate students get 12 free in-person counseling sessions per year and unlimited free virtual counseling sessions. Virtual services are sponsored by the Student Government Association. All counseling and referral meetings are confidential.
Students can request appointments through the Virtual Care Group mental health services and speak to a licensed therapist about conditions such as depression and anxiety, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, grief and loss, life changes, panic disorders, stress, relationship issues, trauma, PTSD and more.
Newman employees can receive three in-person and over-the-phone sessions at no cost. To set up a session, visit guidanceresources.com.
The Jets Resource Hub is a free resource center for students that was established by the Student Government Association and the Bachelor of Social Work program at Newman. It not only provides non-perishable meals and snacks but also provides resources such as over-the-counter medicines and toiletries, like soaps, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, etc. All students are welcome to its resources, located in McNeill Hall room 123.
Everyone needs a moment of quiet and solitude now and then. Prayer and quiet spaces are located on the Newman campus in the following areas:
Musical practice rooms are open to all and located on the second floor of De Mattias Hall. Bring your instrument or use one of the pianos in each of the six practice rooms.
Every month, the Steckline Gallery features a new exhibition. Join us in the Steckline Gallery for a First Friday reception at 5 p.m. on the first Friday of the month.
An Art for Lunch is held each month at noon on the Thursday before First Friday, which allows attendees to hear directly from the artist about his/her artwork. Students can also enjoy a pizza lunch and staff, faculty and outside guests are welcome to bring their own lunch.
Aside from its large selection of books, journals and academic publications, the Dugan Library offers workshops, extended hours during finals week, study rooms, puzzles and more.
Nothing says Jet Pride like fresh Newman swag. Explore the online collection of hoodies, hats, bags and other back-to-school essentials in the online store.
Follow your favorite teams and be in the know about upcoming games, stats and more through the Newman Jets Athletics app.
To download the app to your smartphone or tablet, visit the App Store or Google Play and search for “Newman Jets Athletics.”
The Newman Today news site is the hub for all the latest news and human interest stories, upcoming events and opportunities. Sign up for the weekly newsletter, delivered directly to your inbox each Thursday afternoon.
From the Gaming Club and Asian Student Association to Newman’s Medical Professional Club and the Multicultural Leadership Organization, the Newman community provides several opportunities for students to promote awareness of issues, develop professionally, engage socially and much more. Explore all the clubs Newman has to offer. Students can also engage in multiple academic groups that span several fields of study.
A disc golf course, established in 2021, is spread throughout campus and is open to all to play.
The course is located in front of the library by Parking Lot A. The course is open to the public on weeknights and weekends, but open exclusively to the Newman community on weekdays until 4 p.m.
Campus Ministry is a way for members of the Newman community to deepen their understanding of the faith. Through speaker series, spiritual direction, Bible studies and retreats, students can be a part of a thriving theological discussion.
This program allows students to actively participate in sports such as softball, kickball, basketball, ultimate frisbee, volleyball and dodgeball. Learn more about Intramural Sports at Newman.
You don’t have to major in theater or music to audition or work behind the scenes for productions at Newman. Be on the lookout for upcoming auditions and shows.
Newman University fosters a culture of service among all its community members. As a student, you’ll learn of several opportunities for volunteer service, which not only benefit the organizations served but also allow for personal growth and development.
This list of frequently asked questions covers everything from financial aid, on-campus jobs and advising questions to useful contact numbers and quick links.
Newman University provides a super-charged student support and success program designed to help you thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Five individuals were chosen to receive Newman’s most prestigious scholarship, the St. John Henry Newman Scholarship, for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year.
The St. Newman scholarship is a full-tuition annual award renewable for five years, valued at at least $177,500. Applicants are required to complete an online application, which includes the submission of a personal resumé, a picture and a 30-60 second video explaining why they want to attend Newman University. They also took part in one of two interview days in January.
Applicants must have at least a 3.9 cumulative high school GPA to apply. St. Newman scholars must complete 32 hours of community service, maintain a 3.4+ GPA and live on campus each semester.
The 2024-25 St. Newman Scholars are:
Desiray Cuellar, of Wichita, Kansas, and Wichita East High School; major: biology with a pre-medicine concentration
Jenna Ju, of Valley Center, Kansas, and Valley Center High School; major: biology with a pre-medicine concentration
Janett Lerma-Reyes, of Wichita and Wichita Northwest High School; major: biology with a pre-optometry concentration
Emma Lintecum, of Raymore, Missouri, and Raymore-Peculiar High School; major: biology with a pre-veterinary concentration
Kelly Lotsu-Morgan, of Accra, Ghana, and Temple Christian International School; major: computer science
The university also selected 44 students to receive its prestigious Monsignor Leon McNeill Scholarship for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year. The scholarship is an annual award renewable for five years, valued at a total of $100,000.
Applicants are required to complete an online application, which includes the submission of a personal resumé, a picture and a 30-60 second video explaining why they want to attend Newman University.
The Monsignor Leon McNeill Scholarship is named for the first president of the university. The scholarship requires that recipients have at least a 3.9 cumulative high school GPA. Recipients must complete 32 hours of community service each semester and maintain a 3.4+ GPA.
The 2024-25 McNeill Scholars are:
Shamiha Alam of Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Heed International School; major: biomedical science
Avary Alberg of Viola, Kansas, and Goddard High School; major: nursing
Fabian Alvarez of Orlando, Florida, and Freedom High School; major: exploring
Myrrah Awwad of Wichita and Wichita North High School; major: biology with a pre-medicine concentration
Jennifer Belton of Wichita and Northeast Magnet High School; major: chemistry with a pre-pharmacy concentration
Adam Bosworth of Wichita and Wichita North High School; major: exploring
Cameron Busby of Wichita and Maize South High School; major: early childhood unified
Tanner Casaubon of Argyle, Texas, and Liberty Christian School; major: exploring
Peyton Childers of Augusta, Kansas, and Augusta High School; major: art
Lily Cortez of Wichita and Maize High School; major: nursing
Paighton Crumley of Wichita and Andover Central High School; major: management
Addison Davis of Wichita and Kapaun Mount Carmel Catholic High School; major: accounting
Jarren Freistuhler of Derby, Kansas, and Derby High School; major: business data analytics
Abbey Gatesman of Greenwood, Arkansas, and Greenwood High School; major: management
Katherine Grossman of Wichita and Wichita East High School; major: chemistry with a research emphasis
Grace Hertel of Forest Grove, Oregon, and Forest Grove High School; major: diagnostic medical sonography
Connor Jahn of Wichita and Trinity Academy; major: business data analytics
Jack Judkins of Wichita Kapaun Mount Carmel Catholic High School; major: biology with a pre-dentistry concentration
Kenzee Keeling of Dodge City, Kansas, and Dodge City High School; major: exploring
Avery Kelley of Derby and Derby High School; major: biology with a pre-medicine concentration
Devani Manzano of Ulysses, Kansas, and Ulysses High School; major: elementary education
Mary Kate McClure of Wichita and Valley Center High School; major: exploring
Tessa Mendoza of Marion, Kansas, and Marion High School; major: criminal justice
Payton Meyer of Mount Hope, Kansas, and Bishop Carroll Catholic High School; major: nursing
Ian Miller of Norwich, Kansas, and Wichita Heights High School; major: biology with a pre-medicine concentration
Monicah Namulindwa of Wichita and Kapaun Mount Carmel Catholic High School; major: exploring
Nya Nguyen of Wichita and Wichita East High School; major: diagnostic medical sonography
Abi Oberley of Clearwater, Kansas, homeschooled; major: elementary education
Yaretzi Parga Lamas of Wichita and Wichita North High School; major: radiologic technology
Olivia Patton of Colwich, Kansas, and Andale High School; major: diagnostic medical sonography
Kala Russell of Park City, Kansas and Wichita North High School; major: nursing
Emma Santiago of Derby and Derby High School; major: biology with a pre-medicine concentration
Jada Sublett of Wichita and Wichita South High School; major: marketing
Maya Thomas of Wichita and Valley Center High School; major: radiologic technology
Kyla Toombs of Wichita and Bishop Carroll Catholic High School; major: biology with a concentration in biomedical research
Trung Tran of Wichita and Wichita East High School; major: biology with a pre-medicine concentration
Hannah Tymitz of Bruce Township, Michigan, and Romeo High School; major: exploring
Sandra Vazquez Ulloa of Wichita and Wichita North High School; major: exploring
Katheryne Ventura Molina of Wichita and Wichita Southeast High School; major: nursing
Kira Wagner of Overland Park, Kansas, and Shawnee Mission West High School; major: nursing
Katie Weiss of Salina, Kansas, and Sacred Heart Junior-Senior High School; major: accounting
Nicolas West of Haysville, Kansas, and Campus High School; major: psychology
Lexi Wimberly of Wichita and Wichita Northwest High School; major: diagnostic medical sonography
Vince Wong of Andover, Kansas, and Andover High School; major: biology with a pre-physical therapy concentration
In addition to the St. Newman and McNeill scholarship, 34 students were selected for the ASC Service Awards and 55 were extended invitations for Newman’s Honors Program.
Maximize your potential to receive additional renewable funding for a quality education at Newman University!
“My sister asked, ‘Do you know how to double bounce?’ then double-bounced while we were play fighting,” Turnquist explained. “I propelled my fist into her mouth and knocked out her two front teeth. It was a clean hit — roots and all — and the teeth were still attached to her braces.”
When Turnquist and her sister went to the emergency dentist, the dentist pushed the teeth back into her gums and said, “They should be good.”
Turnquist was fascinated.
“To see that and know my sister got to keep her teeth because of the quick action of the dentist made me want to become one, too,” Turnquist said.
She is now one step closer to achieving her dream, in part thanks to the classes she took at Newman University.
Turnquist, who is a nontraditional student, enlisted in the U.S. Army straight out of high school. It wasn’t until several years later that she decided to take advantage of her GI bill. One of Turnquist’s mantras is “I’m going to be four years older in four years anyway,” she said. “I knew if I started the hard work, I was going to be in a better place later, so I went for it.”
She started her college journey with another local university, but quickly realized it wasn’t the best fit for her.
“I didn’t feel like I was learning things at the level that I should to succeed in the way that I wanted to,” Turnquist said. “When you ask around about Newman, all you hear is quality: ‘Their science department is fantastic; the instructors there are fantastic; they really care about the students’ success.’ Now I’ve witnessed it. At Newman, they want you to be the best in your career field and they hold you to that.”
Turnquist supplemented her work experience at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital with her pre-dental classes at Newman and felt prepared without ever having to earn a full degree. She passed her first dental admissions test and was recently accepted into the University of Missouri – Kansas City’s School of Dentistry Program for fall 2024.
“I highly recommend others take classes at Newman,” she said. “The teachers are fantastic, and the students are so motivated. They really propelled us into another level of learning. That’s why I love Newman. I’ll tell everyone, ‘Yes, go to Newman.’”
Every day, Turnquist tries to lead by example for her children.
At Newman, they want you to be the best in your career field and they hold you to that.
Jami Turnquist
“Your kids see how hard you work and it motivates them to know they can do more, too,” she said. “I think especially for my 18-year-old, seeing me go back to school and juggle all of these things and trying to do it with grace, she was motivated enough to graduate high school with her associate’s degree in college.”
Turnquist hopes that she will also inspire her other children: two high school children, her middle schooler and, eventually, her 3-year-old and 18-month-old. Through it all, Turnquist has her husband and mother to thank for their unending support.
“My mom is over all the time; she loves her grandkids and she’s always there, and my husband goes above and beyond as far as a partner goes to take care of the kids’ needs,” Turnquist said. “He takes them to school, goes to the doctor appointments, he’s the emergency contact, he cooks dinner and does the grocery shopping. He does all of that so I can perform at a high level working full time.”
To other adult learners, Turnquist says it’s worth it to put in the hard work and make your career dreams a reality.
“Call on your family or spouse for support, put in the hard work and know that in four years you’ll be closer to the lifestyle you want,” she said. “It might sound cheesy, but do whatever you can to make it happen, because it’s in your power to do so.”
Experience a super-charged student support and success program designed to help you thrive in a rapidly changing world.
In honor of this day, the Newman Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) committee is hosting an event to celebrate women, featuring three upstanding female speakers from the Newman community. The event, “Strong Women Boldly Building Dreams,” will be held March 8 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center.
All participants must register by March 1. Registration, which includes lunch, is free to members of the Newman community and $20 for others.
Along with the speakers, there will also be many women-owned businesses at the event. Those who attend will have the opportunity to learn and/or support these companies, along with their products, stories and where to find them in Wichita.
Glick retired at the beginning of 2023 from her position as executive director of Catholic Charities in Wichita. She served in this position for six years. She has contributed to the Newman community in many ways, from giving talks to serving on the Board of Trustees.
Lovelady is the current CEO of HealthCore Clinic in Wichita. In 2004, Lovelady found herself in the same clinic needing medicine for her son. Then in 2009, her night class in the Master of Social Work program was held at HealthCore Clinic. Two years later, she became CEO. She holds two master’s degrees from Newman, one in social work and the other in business administration.
Vann is the CEO and founder of Vanntastic Solutions. She graduated from Newman University in 1996 with her Bachelor of Science in elementary education. She taught in the Wichita Public Schools for more than 20 years and is now a full-time speaker and CEO. She has also written multiple books, has a blog and podcast and is an advocate for mental health.
Madeline Vardell, student support specialist, is one of the women behind this event.
“We find these three women motivational, and exceptional in their fields,” Vardell said. “Their fields are so unique, demonstrating a wide scope of women thriving in various areas. We hope this variety will aid every attendee to leave with a takeaway.”
Vardell added, “We believe all attendees will be motivated to continue to strive through the example and information of the presenters.”
All participants must register by March 1. Registration, which includes lunch, is free to faculty, staff and students of the Newman community and $20 for others.
ISSP camp is an immersive, weeklong experience that allows high schoolers to develop a better understanding of work in STEM-related fields through science, technology, engineering and math. For five days, students can perform hands-on research with Newman faculty, experience living on campus in the residence halls and even earn college credit.
The 2024 ISSP overnight program allows campers to fully immerse themselves in campus life with a nightly stay in the residence halls. Campers will arrive in the evening on Sunday, June 2, and depart in the afternoon/ evening on Friday, June 7. Cost, which includes two college credit hours, lodging, breakfast, lunch and dinner for five days, is $420 before April 17 or $450 on or after.
The 2024 ISSP program application deadline is May 17, 2024.
The ISSP camp is made possible by the Berry Foundation.
Each participant will select one interdisciplinary research topic from biology or chemistry. Working within a small group, the student will then conduct a literature search on the selected topics, set up laboratory/field experiments, collect data, analyze the results, draw conclusions from the findings and finally present the research to faculty and students.
Supervision and project background information is provided by the program faculty in one-to-one and small group discussion formats rather than traditional lectures. Guest speakers will provide participants with real-life applications of science and math.
During ISSP students will:
Current high school sophomores, juniors or seniors with a minimum 3.0 grade point average and who have completed at least one high school science course can apply for ISSP. Consideration may be given to freshmen.
Sai Ananya Guntaka, a high school senior from Pittsburgh applied for the ISSP camp after a relative mentioned the opportunity to her mom over a phone call.
“We decided to look into it, and it was a lot of fun,” Guntaka said. “It was one of my first times staying away from home for a week, and I really liked the environment. Everyone was really friendly, and the lab work we did was very interesting because it’s a lot different from what we do in school.”
For more information, please contact NSEP director and associate professor of chemistry, Ryan Huschka by email at huschkar@newmanu.edu or by phone at (316) 942-4291 ext. 2428.
Heritage Month is a time filled with activities celebrating the Adorers of the Blood of Christ (ASC) founders and St. John Henry Newman. It is a way to honor and celebrate Newman’s Catholic heritage and school spirit, and the contest has been a tradition since Heritage Month’s inception in 2015.
The prompt for this year’s contest was “What advice would St. Maria or St. Newman give to students living in today’s world?”
Each winner was awarded a cash prize for his or her winning work at the Newman Board of Trustees meeting Feb. 23.
Matthew Fowler, a freshman, won for his three-page essay answering the prompt. Throughout his essay, Fowler referenced St. Newman’s “The Idea of a University,” sharing what he believes St. Newman would advise the students of today.
“Saint John Henry Newman would advise students living in today’s world to pursue an education guided by an appreciation of the sacred so that their truly virtuous character may enhance society,” Fowler wrote. “He would advise them to uphold their intellectual integrity, to seek information exempt from the abuses of today’s world; to aim for that which is beyond the mere evasion of evil, that which is good in its own end formed by an awareness of that which is higher.”
He concluded his essay with a quote from Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely.” (The New American Bible, revised edition, 2010)
Beth Griffiths, a junior, won for her essay titled, “A Love Unbound and Free.” She was inspired by her family’s background to write the essay.
“I am half Northern Irish, half English and my mother grew up in Northern Ireland in the throes of the Irish Troubles,” Griffiths said. “If you don’t know anything about that, she’s a Protestant and had a very jaded view of Catholics growing up, is what I’ll say and it kind of filtered into my life a little bit.”
She continued, “Coming to Newman has been amazingly interesting to discover myself, the Catholic tradition, the Catholic importance on saints and figures like St. Maria De Mattias,” Griffith said. “I’ve been trying to educate myself and do my best to take away that generational jadedness and find what these figures like St. Maria De Mattias mean and why they’re important.”
In her essay, Griffiths explored the advice she believes St. Maria De Mattias would give to students today.
“I think she would advise us to look around and see what people need,” Griffiths wrote. “She would ask us to think about the ways we can love people better: being generous with our things, talking to the people that are left out, making an effort to forgive that one person, telling others about this unconditional love of God that they need.”
She encouraged her fellow students to “be practical in our service and bold in our faith.”
If students can do that, “I fully believe we are going to be changing the world for the better in every way,” Griffiths said.
Senior John Suffield was the graphic arts winner during Heritage Month.
This is his third year winning for his graphic arts category. He loved being able to express his art two years in a row and jumped at the chance to participate again.
He created a digital illustration of St. Maria De Mattias with her quote “I feel with you in what you are suffering and asking God to make you strong. Don’t be afraid for the work is God’s and it develops amid thorns.”
“I am very thankful for Sister Therese (Wetta) for doing this every year,” Suffield said with gratitude.
One of the longest-standing Newman traditions, the beloved St. Newman High Tea event was held Wednesday, Feb. 21, following the St. Newman Mass. The teatime event has been going strong since the mid-1980s and celebrates both St. Newman’s birthday and his English tradition.
In honor of St. Newman’s 223rd birthday, Newman Events Coordinator Abbi Timmermeyer and Digital Content Specialist Amy Emerson hosted the first-ever live podcast episode for “The Newman Bond.” The duo showcased some of the fancily plated finger foods, fan favorites and credited the hard work of nearly 70 volunteers who made the event possible.
“We especially want to give a shoutout to High Tea Coordinator Sheryl Stanley,” Emerson said. “Sheryl heads the planning committee each year and provides many of the unique tea sets that High Tea is known for.”
The podcast hosts “spilled the tea” on St. Newman’s life and legacy, sharing lesser-known facts about the English theologian and his canonization as a saint.
“Even if you couldn’t make it to campus for this year’s High Tea, we encourage you to pour yourself a warm cup of tea in honor of St. Newman’s 223rd birthday,” said Timmermeyer.
Newman University is more than halfway through its 10th annual Heritage Month which celebrates St. Newman and the university’s founders, the Adorers of the Blood of Christ (ASC).
“This month is really about celebrating our history,” Timmermeyer said. “Even though Newman University has been around since 1933, it really started because St. Maria De Mattias, who was from a small village in Acuto, Italy, believed it was her life’s mission to help educate young women. She founded the ASC in 1834, and eventually those sisters went on to found the Newman University that we know and love.”
In his homily during the St. Newman Mass, Father Adam Grelinger reflected on St. Newman’s words in his work, “The Idea of a University.”
“St. John Henry Newman says, ‘A Catholic university should be proud of its divine knowledge because it has something — a gift handed onto it from the generations before,'” Grelinger said. “Our heritage has been given to us and we can accept it, learn from it, cherish it and hopefully pass it on.”
Heritage Month was established in 2015 by the late Sister Charlotte Rohrbach, ASC, when she noticed how many university-related milestones took place between Feb. 4 and March 4.
“Feb. 4 marks the feast day of St. Maria De Mattias, St. Newman’s birthday is Feb. 21 and the ASC sisters were established on March 4,” Rohrbach explained in a 2016 video interview.
Today, alumni, students and community members can celebrate many facets of Newman University’s history during February. Scroll to view more Heritage Month events yet to come, or click to see the full calendar.
The Newman Bond podcast series discusses a wide range of topics from Catholic faith to basketball featuring guests from the Newman community.
“Looking In” will be on display March 1- March 29. An artist talk, which includes a discussion with the artist and pizza lunch for Newman students, will take place Feb. 29 from noon to 1 p.m. All events are free and open to the public.
“Looking In” showcases Conover’s photographs from various points along the border of Kansas — a project he started in early 2021.
“Relying on internet maps, I am able to scout many of the locations ahead of time from my home in Wichita in south central Kansas,” Conover explained. “Some locations are barren and austere, others offer a more scenic, picturesque view. Although I resist the traditional ‘postcard’ view of the sunflower state, I enjoy being a tourist in my home state.”
Conover has photographic experience as a contributing photographer for “The New York Times,” “The Village Voice” and as a staff photographer for the “Monroe Evening News” in Michigan. As an adjunct professor at Newman University, Conover teaches analog and digital photography.
Conover received his bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from Kansas State University, a Master of Education degree from Emporia State University and a Master of Fine Arts in photography from Savannah College of Art and Design. He has showcased his photography in several exhibitions locally, New York and even London. He is based in the Midwest.
To explore more of Conover’s artwork, visit his website, https://www.caryconoverphotography.com/.
The Steckline Gallery is located inside the De Mattias Fine Arts Center on the Newman campus, 3100 McCormick. The gallery is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays or by appointment.
For more information, email gallery director Shannon Johnston at johnstons@newmanu.edu.
Interested in exhibiting at the Steckline Gallery?
You can visit newmanu.edu/lent to read today’s reflection.
(Genesis 22:1-2,9a, 10-12, 15-18; Romans 8:31-34; Mark 9:2-10)
Sister Barbara Jean Franklin, ASC
A mountain of laundry, a mountain of dirty dishes, a mountain of papers to write and exams that will require a lot of study. Whether one works in the hospitality industry, in a hotel or restaurant or if a person happens to be a student; there are always mountains of things that challenge us each day. Abraham was in anguish as he climbed the mountain with his beloved son. Peter, James and John climbed a mountain with the “Beloved Son.” They were challenged to let go of preconceived notions about Jesus. In both biblical passages God breaks through in surprising ways. We, too, are challenged to name our mountains and climb them in faith that our God will break through for us. Our lives will be transformed as surely as Jesus was transfigured. The mountain top awaits our arrival. God waits to break through into our everyday lives. Let’s climb together.
(Daniel 9:4-10; Luke 6:36-38)
Cynthia Smith Lohkamp ’66 SHA
In both Daniel and Luke, we are reminded of God’s great mercy and His command, “Be merciful just as your Father is merciful.” Offering compassion, unconditional love and forgiveness often hurts and leaves me vulnerable. Am I strong enough to carry additional pain? Do I remember to ask for and accept the grace needed to show mercy? Can I remain humble and nonjudgmental? Yes, by the Grace of God! Mercy can flow throughout the whole world as we each commit to the practice.
(Isaiah 1:10-, 16-20; Matthew 23:1-12)
Zachary Kelsey, student seminarian
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Jesus calls us to humble ourselves and trust in Him. In Isaiah, God tells us how to do this: “Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good.” Jesus adds to this in the Gospel saying, “The greatest among you must be your servant.” To live humbly, I must recognize that I need God and to return that need for God by serving others who are in need. I am not called to live for myself but to love God and serve others. Lent is an opportunity for me to humble myself before God by being honest and asking what barriers I put up around my heart that keep me from giving myself entirely to Him and how I can best serve others.
(Jeremiah 18:18-20; Matthew 20:17-28)
Diana Crook ‘85 Board of Trustees
Entering the second week of Lent, I think about the great gratitude I have toward our Lord for all that he came to do for us. In Jeremiah, we see the people ready to destroy Jeremiah about anything he spoke. He asked that his suffering be taken away. But Jesus was willing with full knowledge to enter into the passion as we read in Matthew. But he would rise again.
The excitement of our Lent is to consider that all the suffering on earth has meaning because of Jesus. Recognizing that we are sinners and that Jesus knew that his sacrifice was our ultimate gain, our heavenly reward, we pray, “Oh, how we are blessed! We thank you our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
(Jeremiah 17:5-10; Luke 16:19-31)
Steve Karlin, professor of education
Reflecting on Jeremiah — we are so fortunate for the glorious gifts we have been given by God to serve others through teaching and service through our university mission. “I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every person according to his ways, and according to the fruit of their doings.” While there is much sin, greed and materialism in our world today, using our gifts with dedication and passion as humble servants for the benefit of our students and others is living out God’s will. What will I do today for others? How else can I use my talents to honor the gifts that God has given me?
(Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13m 17-28; Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46)
Laura Hartley, director of Advancement Services and Annual Giving
What must Joseph have felt when he realized his own brothers planned to kill him or leave him for dead? His emotions, I am sure, were running wild with confusion, betrayal and hurt. How often have we all felt those same emotions when coming into contact with the faults of people?
I know I have. But what brings me comfort comes from the Gospel today when Jesus says, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes.” Let us always remember that God is with us and, whatever the world throws at us, we are wonderful in His eyes.
(Micah 7:14-15, 18-20; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32)
Joanna Pryor, director of Athletics
This Lent I think of both sons. The older son so we don’t become bitter with God and the younger son, so we don’t take advantage of what we are given. More often than we like to admit, we have been the prodigal younger son, being wasteful and reckless; we have also been the older self-righteous brother, diligent and doing what is asked of us. I ponder and realize how this is very much like parenting. We can have one child who does everything asked of them and another who is challenging and pushes all the limits. As a parent, we love them both and work to give them understanding. Through the six weeks of Lent, we need to remember the Father’s generosity through it all.
They all shared research at a national conference held in Oklahoma City as part of their chemistry research class with Associate Professor of Chemistry Alan Oberley.
Current students Nathan Klaus and Hope Strickbine along with recent graduates Daniel Oberley ’23, Alex Dehoet ’23 and Emily Hua ’23 presented their research Friday, Nov. 17, on arsenic detection in well water.
Klaus, a senior majoring in chemistry and Strickbine, a senior majoring in biochemistry learned about the American Chemical Society (ACS) conference through Oberley. Klaus applied to go, not really knowing what he was getting into.
“I got a message at 9 p.m. the night of the application deadline asking if I wanted to go or not before I even really knew what I was attending. I figured whatever it turned out to be, it would be a good networking opportunity, so I agreed to attend and I’m glad I made that choice,” said Klaus.
The group presented a poster about new methods for detecting arsenic in well water.
According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, arsenic is a naturally occurring semi-metallic element that is widely distributed in the Earth’s crust. It is found in water, air and soil.
“Alex and Danny presented a version of this presentation at Scholars Day in the spring of 2023, so we were able to use the basis of their presentation to build the poster for the ACS conference,” said Strickbine.
Arsenic in water has been known to have both short- and long-term effects. A few of the long-term effects consist of cancer, high blood pressure and heart disease, while short-term effects can include arsenic poisoning, which leads to nausea and pain in the abdomen. These are just some of the many problems someone with arsenic in their well water could face, according to the World Health Organization.
“Testing for arsenic is both time-consuming and expensive, not to mention the machines necessary for the testing are too large to move to the water, so the water has to be moved to the test site. We’re working on a method that is not only more portable but also cheaper and faster as well,” Klaus said.
Strickbine explained that the goal of the group’s research was to identify or create a dye that would allow them to identify and quantify arsenic in groundwater on-site using a more affordable instrument.
“We started from an older method that uses a heptamolybdate dye,” Strickbine explained. “The problem is, this method cannot currently distinguish between arsenic and phosphate, and since phosphate is permissible at much higher levels in groundwater there is a signal interference issue.”
The group discovered that at certain low pH levels, or more acidic solutions, the phosphate and arsenic signals may change.
“They may change significantly enough for us to develop a new method that can distinguish between the two compounds,” Strickbine said.
Through the group’s research, Strickbine learned that finding chemicals in groundwater is a global issue that affects many communities, regardless of how well-developed they may be.
“I have learned a lot about troubleshooting, identifying sources of error and contamination and about the issue that we are trying to solve,” said Strickbine.
Like Strickbine, Klaus worked on this research continuously each week during the fall semester in preparation for the conference. According to Strickbine, their group was the largest undergraduate poster presentation, which allowed them to rotate shifts where some could walk around and look at other posters and presentations, while others stayed back.
Klaus said his biggest takeaway from the conference was the overall experience of “witnessing chemistry, and science as a whole,” he said. “Also where ideas are readily shared for the advancement of all goals related to scientific advancement.”
Strickbine described the conference as “fairly formal,” but not as intense as she had anticipated. She recognized it as a good opportunity to meet recruiters from graduate schools as well.
“Everyone there was really nice and interested to learn from each other,” Strickbine said. “I met representatives from several different graduate schools and was excited to apply to some of the schools that I learned about at the conference.”
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The four safely traveled to Birmingham, England, home to Newman University’s sister school with the same name in mid-January. Since arriving, they have already started exploring exciting destinations like Oxford as part of their study abroad experience.
With a tiny microphone in hand, Katie shared a TikTok video with scenes from a group breakfast at Gail’s Bakery, The Eagle and the Child, the Bodleian Library and Botanical Gardens’ greenhouse. The group also made a stop at the oldest pub in Oxford, Turf Tavern, along with Radcliffe Camera.
Stay tuned for more TikTok videos, photos or blog posts from these dynamic travelers as they complete their semester overseas.
Students are encouraged to participate in Newman University’s overseas study and exchange programs, which contribute to individual and intercultural development.
According to BeMo, veterinary school acceptance rates in the U.S. are notoriously competitive, with only 10-15% of all applicants accepted annually. The two Newman graduates defied the odds, however, and recently passed the even more challenging licensure exam for veterinary medicine — a test students only get five chances to pass in a lifetime.
Now, Huber and Santiago each look forward to graduating from Kansas State University’s four-year veterinary program in May.
Huber has always known she was called to a career in a caring profession, particularly one where she can advocate for those who can’t care for themselves.
“During my undergrad years at Newman, I worked at a day care and really enjoyed working with children from the ages of 2 to 5 years old. However, I really wanted the chance to practice medicine and dabble in surgery,” Huber said.
Huber was drawn to veterinary medicine because it involves intensive training to properly examine, diagnose, perform surgery and assess treatment options. She also loves being able to think critically as she problem-solves.
“Working with exotic species also introduces unique challenges such as patient size and stability, the amount of published data available for reference and species-specific variations in anatomy and physiology,” Huber said.
Since graduating from Newman in 2019, Huber has worked on call as a radiology student worker (taking radiographs for emergency patients) as a tutor, participated in a summer research program and worked as a lab assistant. She has also participated in many externships, which refers to shadowing professionals, with clinics in Wichita as well as the Sedgwick County Zoo, which she described as “an absolute blast.”
While a Newman biology student with a pre-veterinary concentration, Huber was part of the ASC Service Award program, a member of Campus Activities Board, a tutor and a lab assistant for several classes.
Through every obstacle Huber has faced in veterinary school, she’s found her courses at Newman helped prepare her for the rigorous study demands of vet school.
I really enjoyed Newman’s smaller faculty to student ratios, the opportunities for research and the success rates of graduates after leaving Newman.
Hanah Huber ’19, pre-veterinary medicine graduate
“I think I am most excited to actually get the chance to practice medicine with a variety of species,” Huber said. “I am hoping to get a job where I can continue to see at least exotic companion species in addition to dogs and cats.”
Huber will be notified of her placement for a veterinary job in March. In the meantime, she is eager to begin her work as a fully fledged veterinarian. She will be forever grateful to her family, friends, professors from Newman and vet school for helping her along the way.
From all the vets who’ve allowed her to shadow to her very own furry friends at home, “thank you for being patient and tolerating so me and my peers can practice what we learn on real animals,” Huber said.
When it came time to pick a college, Santiago applied for Newman University’s full-tuition St. Newman Scholarship. He took it as a sign when he was one of 10 students awarded in 2019.
“My mom brought me and my brother here to the United States from the Philippines to provide us with the best opportunities for a better life, so being awarded that scholarship was very important to me,” he said. “It eased the burden of paying for my education off of my parents.”
At Newman, Santiago flourished as a leader, serving as vice president of the Newman University Weight Training Club and a member of the esports Club, Asian Student Association and the Multicultural Leadership Organization. He earned his Bachelor of Science in biology with a pre-veterinary concentration.
Post-graduation, he worked at a veterinary clinic as an assistant, applied for veterinary school and was accepted into Kansas State University’s veterinary program. For Santiago, the dream he had been working toward since high school was finally realized.
The biggest challenge of vet school was managing his study time, Santiago said. Rather than studying for a certain amount of hours in a day, Santiago set goals to study particular topics.
“After studying, any time left over in the day would be spent taking care of myself whether that be mental or physical health — going to the gym, hanging out with friends or playing video games,” he said.
Santiago said working with all different kinds of animals (as well as humans) is by far the most rewarding aspect of being in the veterinary field.
“As a veterinarian, I also get to educate and empower pet owners, who share my love for animals, to provide the best care they can with their own pets,” he said.
As a veterinarian, I get to educate and empower pet owners to provide the best care they can with their own pets.
Kenneth Santiago ’19, pre-veterinary graduate
After graduation, Santiago will practice in Houston as a general practitioner who works with small animals and exotics. He credits his family — parents, grandparents and girlfriend — for inspiring him and supporting him through veterinary school, and his lifelong friends at Newman for “being with me every step of the way.”
“I am excited for my journey as a veterinarian in an ever-evolving field,” he said. “I look forward to all the pets and people that I get to help daily.”
Our pre-<mark>veterinary</mark> science program is designed to give you the skills and knowledge necessary to enter <mark>veterinary</mark> school.
The 2024 MLK Distinguished Service Award Ceremony held Feb. 8 did just that in a renewed and spirited fashion, starting with a performance by the Newman Chorale directed by Music Director Deanne Zogleman. The students greeted guests with the soulful songs “In That Great Gettin’ Up Mornin’” and “I’ll Fly Away.” Pastor Samuel Kayode of RCCG Victory House Church then led an opening prayer.
“We thank you, Lord, for the great vision and message Dr. Martin Luther King has left behind,” Kayode prayed. “And thank you to the award recipients who choose to follow the principles and ideas of Dr. King in love, in equality and in freedom.”
The 2024 MLK Distinguished Service Award honorees were presented to faculty member Yelando Johnson, program director of Newman’s Master of Social Work program and the division chair of social work and associate professor; staff member Andi Giesen, dean of students; and student Alondra Valle.
For all three, it was a humbling surprise to receive the awards.
Johnson was nominated for always finding ways to promote equity and inclusion on the Newman campus. In the words of her nominator, “as a social worker, Dr. Johnson has taken an oath to serve humanity and do what’s right, and she excels every day in this mission.”
Johnson has served on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, which plans the event, in years past and is no stranger to the work it takes to organize the MLK Distinguished Service Awards event and the nomination process.
“I’ve been here for so long and I’ve been a nominee many times, so I was really surprised I won it,” Johnson said. “I feel like I do the work I do naturally and I think all of us try to. There are so many great people who live by the principles of Dr. King — Melissa Castle (employment specialist), Sonja Bontrager (assistant professor of Spanish and co-director of Hispanic initiatives), Marguerite Regan (director of teaching and learning) and so many others.”
Johnson added, “If I can do something to make even one student feel like they belong, that makes me happy. I’m just so proud to represent that work.”
Giesen was nominated for “going above and beyond the call of duty,” and for “working effortlessly with students, faculty and staff to make sure no one is left out or behind.” Giesen helped plan the event with the DEI committee, so she was surprised when “it came back around my way and I had to confirm my own attendance to be there (as an awardee).”
“I am extremely honored,” she said. “Dr. King’s work is amazing and I would give a nod to the university and the committee for perpetuating his work. And then for any bit of what I do to be likened to his work is most amazing.”
Valle’s nominators described her as a leader with “a profound commitment to the pursuit of equity and justice in various capacities.”
Valle, who serves as president of the Student Government Association, stated, “Dr. Martin Luther King did a lot and I wouldn’t classify myself as being at his level, but being even close to it with this award was a huge honor.”
Keynote speaker Marquetta Atkins-Woods, founder and executive director of Destination Innovation Inc., challenged all attendees to reflect on King’s belief that “love that does not satisfy justice is no love at all.”
I want us to hold space for these change makers, for everybody that gets up every day and says, ‘I’m going to fight.’ Because there is nothing easy about it.
Marquetta Atkins-Woods
“Oftentimes when we celebrate his legacy, we hear the love, but it’s hard to see,” Atkins-Woods said. “Love is in action, not just in words. Do we see that love in policy? Do we feel that love in leadership?”
Atkins-Woods noted how the award winners’ work is grounded in equity and creating an environment that is just and safe for every person, but this work takes tremendous courage.
“I don’t think we talk about enough about how scary it is to go against the grain, to stand in the fight; how sometimes the losses in this work outweigh the wins,” she said. “So today I want us to hold space for these change makers, for everybody that gets up every day and says, ‘I’m going to fight.’ Because there is nothing easy about it.”
Atkins-Woods concluded, “Let’s celebrate and build beyond this moment. Let’s make sure we create a space for these leaders to feel supported, heard and seen in their daily work so that we can do the same for future leaders. Give yourself grace, because if this man died for his strengths, surely we can live for ours.”
In this inclusive, faith-inspired university community, you’ll create meaningful connections that will endure and help you become the difference maker you are meant to be.
To help inspire us during the Church’s grace-filled season of Lent, Newman University community members share their reflections on the Mass readings for each of day of Lent. We begin with Ash Wednesday and will continue through Easter Sunday.
You can visit newmanu.edu/lent to read today’s reflection.
Growing up Catholic I remember so well as a child trying to explain to my public school, non-Catholic classmates why I had a black smudge on my forehead. Quite the challenge to explain as a kid.
Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. We will receive ashes on our forehead. The ashes will come from the burning of dried, brown and dead palm branches; much like our souls that can become dried and dying from sinful behavior. This is our opportunity for renewal and cleansing.
St. Paul writes, “Do not receive the grace of God in vain.” During Lent, we do not want to receive the grace of God in vain.
Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew spoke of humble prayer, fasting and giving to the poor. What a perfect time for all of us to be renewed and increase our prayer life, fast and take care of the poor with our time, talent and treasure. Oh, how I wish I knew this when trying to answer my classmates, why I had a black smudge on my forehead.
Within these verses from Luke, Jesus foretells his forthcoming rejection, suffering, death and resurrection. He extends an invitation to all, urging us to shoulder our daily challenges and walk in his footsteps. I frequently ponder the nature of my own trials, questioning whether I am wholeheartedly embracing them to align myself with Jesus. Am I leading a purposeful life rooted in self-discovery and a meaningful relationship with God? Is there a divine calling prompting me to dedicate my life to serving others with genuine compassion? Am I fulfilling that which God is calling me to do?
In Isaiah 58:1-9 we read, “Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife… you cannot fast as you do today and expect our voice to be heard on high… Is this what you call a fast?” There is danger in turning the gift of sacrifice into a very self-centered thing. We can become cynical or prideful when sacrifice is not focused on glory of God and service of our brothers and sisters. The Lord asks us about fasting, “Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?” Fasting is sacrifice, which includes both contrition for love of the Lord and compassion for our brothers and sisters.
In Luke, Jesus responds to the question, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” with these words, “Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do.
I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners.”
Lord, let me not be so prideful that I forget that I, too, am sick. My efforts at holiness do not change my need for the Divine Physician. Let the awareness of my need for divine healing drive me to solidarity with my fellow tax collectors and sinners.
Where will the flowing waters lead us today and through the rest of our Lenten river?
The waters in today’s readings take us on a journey with water from the ark to baptism, to the desert where we thirst for more. Many days we turn on the faucet first thing in the morning to wash our face and brush our teeth and repeat these steps to end our day. There are parts of our country and world where the access to potable water takes many more steps than simply turning on the faucet. What if every time we turn on our faucets, we pause to let our hearts journey with Christ to be present in prayer with our dear neighbors who struggle to meet even their basic needs? May our prayers and pauses this day and every day forward be the living waters of hope and love as we continue to be in connection and communion with our dear neighbor.
Preface: As the season of Lent begins, allow yourselves to seek after God’s love and the command to love placed on us all, so not to forget the perfect love Jesus displayed on the cross.
We are called to love God first and foremost, then to love our neighbors, including our enemies. (Matthew 5:44) It is impossible to love, unless we fully surrender, allowing Christ to make us a new creation and be reconciled to the one whose name is love (1 John 4:8). Today’s readings both demonstrate instances where a person is given a command or commands to follow and then judged based on ability to live up to the task. Failure will always arise unless our behavior is motivated by God’s love. Through that kind of love, we have passion to help and care for the less fortunate. Our “love actions” can help mend parts of this broken world back together.
Bread – the staple food of almost every country in some form, a food sustaining life when almost nothing else is available. A symbol of culture and religious rituals and spirituality. Both readings today speak of bread – “giving seed to the sower and bread to those who eat” (Isaiah) and “give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew).
Lent is a special time to daily “eat” the bread of the living word of God that “goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty but it shall accomplish what I mean it to do.” As I eat bread today, will I be grateful for God’s care and love for me? Will I make time this Lent to read, even for five minutes, the nourishing bread of Sacred Scripture?
Most of us remember the biblical story of Jonah being swallowed by the whale because he refused God’s demand to visit Nineveh, a pagan city known for its wickedness. Jonah fled on a ship, was thrown overboard during a storm and swallowed by a large fish for three days. Jonah prayed to God to have mercy on him. God did and “commanded the fish to spew Jonah upon the shore,” where today’s reading of Jonah begins. Jonah obeyed God’s command and traveled through Nineveh prophesying it would be destroyed in 40 days if the people did not repent. Fortunately, the entire nation repented.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is preaching to a large crowd. Instead of celebrating the arrival of the Messiah, the people cast doubt on what Jesus was saying and demanded a sign. Jesus said, “This generation is an evil generation, it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah.” As Jonah preached to the Ninevites about repentance, Jesus was preaching the same.
At our final judgment, will we be like the Ninevites and the followers of Jesus who repented?
Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Chair of Saint Peter. Yes, a chair, or “cathedra,” from which where we get the word “cathedral.” It is a celebration of the “seat of authority” Jesus entrusted to Peter and his successors (the popes); a seat that symbolizes the immovable rock of faith on which Jesus builds his Church. This seat of authority is not for Peter to “lord it over” but to “tend the flock of God” and to faithfully witness through the ages that Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Individual popes through history may have served this office well or poorly, but the chair remains and the proclamation of the truth of Christ continues to our day. Now, in this season of repentance and turning our lives back to the Lord, we take seriously again the question of Jesus, “Who do you say that I am?”
Today’s readings take us on a journey, the first from bad to good – if the wicked person turns away from all the sins committed … he/she shall surely live. The Gospel takes us from good to better – leave your gift at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Realizing we need to reroute doesn’t mean we are failures; it means that we can go somewhere better. God wants us to journey ever closer to him, and it’s natural that a journey starts far from its destination. Even if we are already on the path for something good (like the offering), there might be something more important (like reconciliation) that God is asking of us. This Lenten season let’s allow God to be our guide.
In the Scriptures, we are given a unique invitation to live out our Newman mission to transform society for the common good of all. The Lord invites us to be His people, observe the commandments, and to be perfect – not as the world defines it, but “as the heavenly Father is.”
The surest way to transform society for the common good is to first and foremost let Jesus Christ transform us and dwell in us, to let Jesus love, heal, fulfill and make us perfect, to rely on and cling to Christ who is Himself perfect. To let Jesus Christ transform and dwell in us, we must faithfully devote time to foster a relationship with Christ in prayer, the Sacraments, Scripture, and the Church’s teachings. In giving ourselves and becoming one with Christ, we let Jesus accomplish His perfect work in and through us. In this way, we can do our part to help transform society into the Kingdom of Heaven right here on earth.
When Tollefson learned that Andover, Kansas, police officers keep stickers in their vehicles to give to children to help them feel safer and more trusting with authority figures, she wanted to contribute something more tangible.
Tollefson, who started crocheting less than two years ago, recently donated 12 crocheted plushie animals in the forms of cats, pigs, sea creatures, frogs and more to the Butler County EMS and Fire Station in Andover.
“As a criminal justice and psychology student, I know that children often get caught up in scary situations and may not be able to receive comfort from a trusted adult in that moment,” she explained. “Many people in the community drop off larger stuffed animals for donations, but EMS cannot always fit these into the compartments in the ambulances. Instead, they often have to donate these to children’s homes or hospitals.”
The fire chief was impressed, grateful and assured Tollefson that his team would get the plushies into vehicles that same day.
Tollefson hopes the child recipients get just as much (if not more) joy from the crocheted plushies as she had during the creation process.
“I love the arts but I’m not great at drawing, already do enough writing for school and coloring honestly just frustrates me,” Tollefson said. “Crochet is, so far, the only hobby that my ADHD consistently returns to that keeps activating my dopamine.”
Since donating the plushies, Tollefson has also provided crocheted gifts for her husband’s job as well as the preschool at South Central Mental Health, where she works as a children’s care coordinator.
“I develop treatment plan goals and objectives, strengths-based interventions and support system collaboration for kiddos with serious emotional disturbances,” Tollefson said. “I also lead a Dungeons and Dragons social skills and leadership group.”
Witnessing children graduate from her services is “incredibly rewarding,” but Tollefson’s favorite aspect of the job is advocating for the children she works with, which in turn provides some relief to their guardians.
“Now that I’ve worked with children and families, I want to pursue diagnostics and assessments along with competency evaluations for the court system,” Tollefson said. “Ultimately, my goal is to help individuals seeking treatment feel heard and understood rather than placed into boxes just because they fit there.”
My goal is to help individuals seeking treatment feel heard and understood rather than placed into boxes just because they fit there.
Allison Tollefson
She is working toward that goal as she earns her master’s degree in clinical psychology from Fort Hays State University.
“Newman helped me develop a mindset to find positivity in all situations, allowing me to focus on strengths when interacting with my kiddos at work to help build them up,” she said. “They also do not lie when they say they’re preparing you for grad school, which I’m incredibly grateful for as the perseverance I learned during my coursework has made grad school much easier.”
Tollefson knows there will always be more tasks to complete, but assures current students and fellow alumni that taking breaks and investing in hobbies is worth the time and effort.
“Taking a break to do something that makes you love life will help you tackle the endless list, and the tasks will still be there whether you take a break or not,” she said. “Take a step back every now and then to remember your own big picture that will help you prioritize work, school, life and self-care.”
Newman University’s criminal justice program embraces the multi-disciplinary approach to problem-solving and, therefore, it enables graduates to achieve success in a wide array of professional settings.
Newman University student Shelby Bussman is no stranger to the brain disease.
Bussman experienced her first epileptic seizure at just 2 years old in the form of a grand mal seizure. After being prescribed anti-epileptic medication, the seizures stopped, only to return later in the form of partial complex seizures. That’s when her health began to decline.
“I had no control over my muscle movements, my eyes rolled back, I had no awareness,” said Bussman. “During that episode, the abnormal electrical activity had reached both sides of my brain and it wasn’t localized in one section of my brain.”
Bussman knew she wanted to eventually attend a university that would lay the foundation to become a pediatric neurologist. She envisioned herself at Newman University, and the decision proved to be the best one for Bussman.
“I wanted a good path into medical school,” Bussman said. “I saw that Newman had a bridge program to KUMC (the University of Kansas Medical Center), as well as a strong biology pre-medicine program, so I decided to come here.”
Bussman’s first- and second-hand experiences with neurological disorders have without a doubt inspired her future career choice. Her brother was born in 2014 with cerebral palsy, and she received brain surgery a few years later in 2017. She saw and experienced how these disorders affect a person’s mentality, education and relationships with others, and wanted to be part of a solution.
Epilepsy has a broad range of symptoms, and each case is unique. For Bussman, her symptoms included short-term memory loss and stunted growth development. When someone told her something, she forgot it within minutes. Her growth development was impacted severely.
“When I was in fifth grade, I was acting like a first grader,” said Bussman.
Many epilepsy patients experience drug resistance, which is when a patient’s body cannot work with the medication provided. For epilepsy patients, this comes in the form of anti-epileptic medication. When a patient’s body cannot use the medications to stop his or her seizures, doctors must find alternative solutions.
“For me, my drug resistance came when the doctors saw that my seizures weren’t being reduced by the medication I was taking. They had to find another route and decided on brain surgery. Still, science needs to find a way around medication and find more natural ways to treat patients who don’t have the ability to adapt to medications,” said Bussman.
As a Newman student, Bussman has taken her personal research of epilepsy to new heights. When she needed to take a microbiology course, she set out to enroll but also make it an honors course. She added a lab and worked with Assistant Professor of Biology Tomoko Bell one-on-one to conduct research.
Researchers have found that the ketogenic diet, or keto diet, helps reduce seizures in certain types type of epilepsy, including refractory epilepsy. The high-fat, low-carb and restricted-protein diet shifts how the body metabolizes food to create energy. Instead of using glucose, it converts stored fat into energy. Bussman’s research delved into how the diet stops seizures, which is still an under-researched area.
After Shelby’s presentation to my microbiology science major class, everybody was so touched that she shared her personal experience.
Tomoko Bell
“I tried to figure out what was happening in the body to allow this change. In the lab, I used the bacteria lactobacillus, which produced lactic acid. We took garlic to stop the growth of lactobacillus and then took keto diet foods to hopefully do the opposite. We then tested them on the lactobacillus to see if they increased or decreased the growth. A neurotransmitter known as Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is what inhibits epilepsy and then this binds to the GABA receptors, inhibiting seizures from happening. This is often found in anti-epileptic medications,” said Bussman.
Bussman wasn’t able to finish the lab and her research, but she will resume it this spring. She hopes to find the results she wants, but if that’s not what is shown in the conclusion, then she hopes it will at least add to existing research.
“Bussman wrote an outstanding paper on how to help people who have epilepsy but cannot take medications due to drug resistance,” Bell said of Bussman’s efforts. “After her presentation to my microbiology science major class, everybody was so touched that she shared her personal experience.”
“It’s inspiring to see her motivation to study about this disease as a pre-med student,” Bell added.
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While heading home, Khokhar received a call from the Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KansasCOM) — a call he had been waiting for since September. Khokhar was told he had been one of the few to be accepted into the school.
“I thought, ‘Oh man, is this the call or is it not the call?’” Khokhar said. “When I answered, the lady told me they would like to offer me a seat. And I just started crying.”
They were the tears of someone who had waited for this day to come, and meticulously prepared for it.
“I have wanted to be a doctor since I was 5 years old,” Khokhar said. “It’s just something that I’ve worked so hard for and now I finally get to go to medical school. I studied (for the MCAT) for eight weeks, Monday through Friday, from what felt like 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.”
Khokhar shared the news with his family. He finally took a sigh of relief from what was a rigorous summer of studying and a semester of patiently waiting.
“Seeing the fruits of my labor paid off at that very moment just made me know in my heart that I am in the right place,” Khokhar said.
Ever since I started as a freshman to now, I feel like the amount of love and effort that the professors put into the students made me want to put in more effort.
Asher Khokhar
That wasn’t the first time Khokhar felt as though he was in the right place. When he applied to Newman University, he felt similar.
“My high school teacher was the one that told me I should go to Newman because of how amazing the science program is,” Khokhar said. “Ever since I started as a freshman to now, I just feel like the amount of love and effort that the professors put into the students made me want to put in more effort.”
During Khokhar’s sophomore year, Talia Powers ’23, the teacher’s assistant for his general chemistry lab, heard him singing. She convinced him to try out for the upcoming musical. Khokhar wasn’t sure how he would be able to juggle his classwork and an extracurricular.
“The fact that she told me other pre-med students participate really drew me to it,” Khokhar said. “Ever since then, I’ve been involved with the chorale and troubadours and I’ve found some of my closest friends that way. That is why I love doing choir and musicals because I’ve formed such close-knit relationships with those people — it’s a family that I’ve formed here at Newman.”
Powers wasn’t the only person who inspired Khokhar during his journey as a Newman Jet. Assistant Professor of Biology Tomoko Bell and Director of Music Deanne Zogleman also served as mentors for Khokhar.
“I almost had to step down from my senior musical (‘The Wedding Singer’) because of a job change and my classwork piling up, but Professor Zogleman didn’t give up on me and said she wanted me to be in it,” Khokhar said. “She made it work for me and I was able to do my final musical here.”
Khokhar also attributes former Newman professors Jenna Persons and David Shubert for their support, as well as his high school teacher, Mrs. Gerber, who convinced him to go to Newman University.
From tediously studying for the MCAT to juggling involvement in theatrical extracurriculars, Khokhar is one giant step closer to turning his childhood dreams into reality.
So, what is next for Khokhar?
After graduating from KansasCOM, he hopes to become a pediatric doctor or an anesthesiologist. In the meantime, he plans to take a celebratory trip this summer.
“I’m a very big Disney fan and my mom promised me that if I got into medical school, she would take me to Disneyland,” Khokhar said. “So we’re planning that trip right now.”
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The feast day for St. Maria De Mattias, foundress of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, is celebrated by ASC sisters around the world, and in and around St. Maria De Mattias’ hometown of Vallecorsa, Italy. The day is a major celebration of her life and legacy that lives on today.
Written by Grelinger
Today we gather together as a community to celebrate St. Maria De Mattias and also commence Heritage Month, a time when we look back to see where we came from, who we are and even who we should be.
We reflect again on our foundations, what makes up the heart of who we are: St. Maria De Mattias, St. John Henry Newman, our mission and core values at Newman University.
We do this because we are inheritors of a tradition, a wisdom, a spirit. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before. Those before us acted in a certain way and, especially at an institution like this, they established in our marrow certain values, beliefs and aspirations.
Our own heritage is for us, I believe, a challenge — something that will always call us up higher. Maybe even something like a mentor who is hopefully proud of us, but still also critical. One who can see the areas where we have real potential for growth.
For example, St. Maria De Mattias was a woman of great faith, who in following God’s call, left home to give her life in service, especially to the education of women. She founded an order of religious sisters dedicated to Christ and his blood poured out for all, who continue to serve Christ in the poor, marginalized and any neighbor in need.
Our heritage is not just dead stories and ideas from the past.
Father Adam Grelinger
It is a spirit and a fire.
This university founded by these sisters would adopt the namesake of St. John Henry Newman who amongst many other things, wrote “The Idea of a University” laying out a strong vision of a Catholic university.
These grand elements and heroes and heroines of our heritage still inspire us today, but they should also challenge us and call us higher.
Do we have the convicting faith of St. Maria? Do we have a deep love for those in need like the Adorers? Does our university live up to the ideal of Newman’s university?
No. Not totally.
I think it is good that this makes us a little uncomfortable. Because these are great things. In comparison, we can come up short. But this should not put us down, but call us up, call us to keep striving. St. Maria, St. Newman and the Adorers knew themselves and they know what we are capable of.
You have probably heard the famous quote from composer Gustav Mahler, “Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.”
Our heritage is not just dead stories and ideas from the past. It is a spirit and a fire.
St. Newman, St. Maria and the women who founded this university during the Great Depression had fire. And they pass it on to us.
Let us preserve it and ever kindle it anew.
Campus Ministry exists to serve the entire Newman University community including graduate students, students of different faith traditions, faculty and staff.
Stanley, who graduated as a history major with minors in English, international studies and pre-law, also spent countless hours as a student worker for Archives.
“Diana has a unique knowledge of the history of Newman, our Heritage Month and our homecoming activities,” Hartley explained.
In this show-and-tell-like episode, Stanley discussed the significance of Newman’s history in the form of cookbooks, posters and a teapot from High Tea; homecoming week articles from The Vantage student-run newspaper, scrapbooks and an Athletics Hall of Fame shield; a T-shirt, pennant, a pompom and even a bronze shoe.
Watch the full episode below to see history come to life through various Newman University artifacts in celebration of Heritage Month.
We are always looking for new guests to feature their stories on the show.
Newman President Kathleen Jagger, Ph.D., MPH, is one of several community members who is excited for Giving Day.
“This day is really about continually increasing the support we can provide students through fundraising,” Jagger said.
Laura Hartley, director of annual giving, said that while the main goal of Giving Day is to raise money, it is also a great excuse to celebrate Newman as a whole.
“This year, we have been blessed to have some of our loyal supporters step up and provide matching challenge funds so that for every dollar you donate to, certain funds will be matched,” Hartley said. “It is fantastic that we have donors who have such confidence in our university.”
The student booth is a personal favorite of Hartley’s. Students can stop by the booth as early as 9 a.m. Feb. 28 in the Student Success Center to donate, play games, win prizes and more.
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Thanks to the generosity of David ’17, Jodie and Randy Reed, every dollar donated to the Fine Arts Fund will be matched up to $5,500. The Fine Arts Fund exists to enhance the quality of the Newman University education by providing operational capital for the fine arts, music and theater programs.
The Newman Fund provides critical funding for student financial aid while also helping fund support services for students, such as tutoring and career services. It is the backbone of Newman University fundraising. This year thanks to generous contributions by Mary Lu Tuthill ’63 and Sheryl Stanley, money given to the Newman Fund will be matched.
Donations to the School of Arts and Sciences ensure programs continue to prepare graduates for their desired careers by developing reflective and critical thinking, communication and research skills needed to be successful and transform society for the better. Diana Stanley ’17 will generously match every dollar given to the School of Arts and Science up to $500.
Every dollar donated by a new donor to Newman University will be matched by President Jagger up to $5,000.
School of Healthcare Professions: Each donation of $20 will be entered into a drawing for a jackpot basket of gift cards.
Each donation over $25 to Athletics will be entered into a drawing to win an MIAA Network Pass for the 2024-25 school year.
If Metanoia receives $5,000 in donations, students from the Catholic living community on campus will dress up as their favorite saints and roam the campus one spring day.
Donate to the School of Education and Social Work and be entered into a drawing to win a themed spring break basket.
Each $100 donation to the Student Affairs Fund will enter into a drawing for free dorm housing for a semester.
This contest applies to any of the three residence halls (Carrocci Hall, Beata Hall, or Fugate Hall). Rules include:
Pop culture fans are in for a treat with a 6:30 p.m. Pop Culture Through the Decades Trivia Night in the Dugan-Gorge Conference Center. Movies, television, game shows, music, sports and other popular culture events will be put to the test.
Sign up today with a maximum number of six individuals per team to compete for first place — a $300 gift card prize pack.
All proceeds will directly benefit Giving Day.
Will you be the lucky donor to win extra money for the area of campus you love? Support for this challenge comes from Amanda Stanley ’08.
On Giving Day Feb. 28, 10 wooden Jets will be hidden around campus, each with a note that says “Congratulations on finding a Newman University Jet! You just won $50 for an area of campus! To redeem, post a picture of the Jet on your Instagram using the hashtag #GiveToNewman and tell us what area of campus you would like $50 to go to.” Support for this challenge comes from Sister Betty Adams, ASC.
Students who donate $5 or more during Giving Day will be entered into a drawing for a $200 Amazon gift card prize. The winner will be announced at 4 p.m. Feb. 28.
In addition to donating to a particular area of campus, Newman community members can support Giving Day by tuning into live streams on Facebook and Instagram, sharing posts and tagging other Newman community members to give via social media.
“One of our biggest goals of Giving Day is to hit the milestone of 200 donors,” Hartley explained.
Special thank you videos will be “unlocked” on social media as the milestones of 50, 100 and 150 donors are reached during Giving Day Feb. 28. Be sure to follow the Newman University Facebook for the latest updates on Giving Day challenges.
Newman University would like to thank each generous sponsor, as well as the staff, faculty and students who contribute to Giving Day in the form of their time, talents and treasure.
“I am amazed and humbled by how many students are willing to give during Giving Day,” Hartley added. “It just shows how much they believe in Newman University.”
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for Giving Day Feb. 28.
On Newman University’s 5th Annual Giving Day, we invite others to continue our mission of empowering students.
Lent is a 40-day period of prayer, fasting and almsgiving that allows individuals to reflect on the 40 days Jesus Christ spent fasting in the desert and enduring temptation by Satan.
Many may be familiar with some of Lent’s common practices, but in this episode of The Newman Bond podcast, Chaplain Father Adam Grelinger and Emily Simon, assistant director of Campus Ministry and The Honors Program, take a deeper dive into the reason for the season.
“Ash Wednesday is the day that marks the beginning of the season of penance and prayer to help us prepare for Easter,” Grelinger explained. “It’s one of those visibly Catholic days, where Catholics normally go to Mass — many Christians, too, — and receive ashes in the sign of a cross on their forehead.”
The use of ashes has biblical roots. In the book of Esther, Mordecai put on sackcloth and ashes when he heard that all Jews were to be eliminated by the king. When Jonah preached to the Ninevites, he, too, put on sackcloth and ashes.
“Daniel does it, Job does it. … It’s a sign of penance, but also a sign of death,” Grelinger added. “We put it on our foreheads to remind us that our sins have caused us spiritual death, and it’s a good reminder because we can sometimes lose sight of the gravity of sin.”
The ashes are placed in the sign of the cross to symbolize that by Christ’s cross and crucifixion, “we are saved by death, so the hope remains there,” he added.
“We do penance for the things we’ve done, but the cross will come on Good Friday [the day of Jesus’ death], which then ends in the glory of the resurrection on Easter and new life is there,” Grelinger said.
Ash Wednesday reminds us that our sins have caused us spiritual death, and it’s a good reminder because we can sometimes lose sight of the gravity of sin.
Father Adam Grelinger
Simon compared Lent to the Catholic sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation when the priest or bishop anoints individuals on the forehead with a sign of cross with holy oil — a much less visible cross.
“Ash Wednesday harkens back to those big moments in your life trajectory as a Christian,” she said. “Part of the significance is that in those moments, Christ is marking you as one of his, but also indicates that you are going out into a spiritual battle.”
“Death is up upon us, but we are also going into the desert for 40 days to really prepare and to make room for Christ as we are marked with him,” Simon added.
Simon and Grelinger explored the Anglo-Saxon roots of the word “lent” and why certain practices, like wearing sackcloth, is no longer common practice. They also discussed the benefits of taking part in Lent, making sacrifices during the 40 days in the name of Christ and critiques Christians sometimes receive for participating in the season of self-denial.
“It’s a season to rid ourselves of the unnecessary things so that we can enter into the joy of what Christ has accomplished even more so,” Simon said. “This is not the time to take a diet and get ready for swimsuit season. But how does it help you engage the Lord and give through almsgiving, as a way of serving Christ who identifies with the poor, sick and needy?”
On behalf of the Newman community, Grelinger added, “We pray that you have a blessed Lenten season, that we continue to pray for each other that we can all have spiritual growth during this season of sacrifice.”
“God bless.”
Know of a Newman student, alum, staff or faculty member who’s worthy of their own podcast episode? Submit your idea to our producers for the chance to be featured.
Video Communications Specialist James Sanny produces and edits each episode featuring various guests — from alumni and students to staff and faculty.
“One of the things that stuck out to me within the first few months of my time working here is that the Newman community is really like a cast of characters,” he said. “There is a uniqueness to each person here that, if you spend even a little time with them, you’ll get the chance to see it shine.”
“The Newman Bond” podcast seeks to showcase the people that make the Newman University community so unique. New episodes of “The Newman Bond” are released every first and third Tuesday of the month at noon via YouTube. In addition to YouTube, all episodes are housed at newmanu.edu/podcast.
Browse below to start listening to published episodes of “The Newman Bond” podcast.
Interested in being a part of The Newman Bond podcast or know of the perfect candidate to feature?
Based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson and adapted by Ken Ludwig, “Treasure Island” will bring an adventurous tale of pirates and buried treasure to life.
Showtimes are 10 a.m. (school group matinee) and 7 p.m. Friday, 7 p.m. Saturday and a 2 p.m. matinee performance Sunday.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the door for $15 for the general public; $10 for seniors, military, Newman faculty and staff, and $5 for students (college age and below). Newman students get in free with their student I.D.
Based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson and adapted by Ken Ludwig, “Treasure Island” will bring an adventurous tale of pirates and buried treasure to life.
According to the NCHC website, “This conference is an annual event designed to support and promote undergraduate honors education.” The program also works to provide resources and training opportunities to its members.
Kelly McFall, professor of history and director of the Honors Program, strives to provide students with quality experiences that will transcend their time at Newman.
“I believe our Honors Program is as good as it is because of the insights, energy and enthusiasm of the students in the program,” McFall said. This year, Sweitzer and Porres were invited based on their outstanding leadership in the Honors Program.
Read on for a Q&A style interview with students of the Honors Program as they share their favorite activities and biggest takeaways from their experience.
Sweitzer: “Attending the NCHC conference was extremely beneficial not only to me but also the Honors Program here at Newman. It was a great opportunity to learn from students, faculty and staff from other universities and colleges.”
Porres: “I was really excited to go to this conference for several reasons. I am an intern for the Honors Program, this is the first year of that position being a thing and I was really eager to learn how to do my job better and really impact the program. On the same wavelength, I am on the honors council and I was very interested in learning about other Honors Programs and considering what aspects we could add to our Honors Program. I had never been to Chicago so that was also an exciting addition to the trip and similarly, I had never really gotten to know AJ and was very excited to get to know her better.”
Sweitzer: “The Honors Program at Newman has given me many opportunities and experiences that have helped me grow as a person. In addition, I have met many wonderful students who have become close friends.”
Porres: “The Honors Program has taught me numerous soft skills that I use every day. If I had to choose one skill in particular that I would deem most valuable it would be communication. I think the Honors Program does a really good job at preparing us to speak well in numerous facets of life. We learn how to formulate complete thoughts, articulate ourselves well and even argue if necessary, have productive conversations and dissolve conflict whilst still getting our point across. The Honors Program also establishes this meaningful and intellectual community that I really love being part of.”
Sweitzer: “Isabel and I were able to go to resume building, interview skills, scholarship application and graduate school sessions, where we learned a ton. We hope to share these takeaways with the Honors Program students. Also, I was able to see many students’ wonderful research projects that were featured at the conference. One session that really resonated with me was called ‘Putting the Art in STEAM,’ which was about how art can be applied to teaching and presenting STEM topics.”
Porres: “I was able to go to several sessions discussing social media and engagement in Honors Programs. Before the conference commenced I was selected to participate in a student ‘fishbowl.’ Myself and six other honors students were the fish, speaking about our Honors Programs and experiences, while about 60 people listened to our conversation. I also went to a workshop where I was able to give my ‘elevator pitch’ and receive feedback.”
McFall: “Isabel, AJ and I attended a variety of different sessions and came home with a variety of different ideas — everything from simple ideas about affirming student accomplishments and value to plans to revamp the senior honors thesis as a way to improve student skills in problem solving and critical thinking.”
Sweitzer: “Isabel and I were able to explore the Field Museum in Chicago and attend a jazz bar night. The food was my favorite part of exploring Chicago because we were able to try all types of cuisines.”
Porres: “I took some time to take a little walk by myself on one of the conference days. We went to the Navy Pier one night as well.”
McFall: “We were mostly in downtown Chicago — and without a car. So we explored downtown Chicago (Navy Pier, etc.), sampled Chicago-style deep-dish pizza (and Indian food) and practiced our public transportation skills. And Isabel and AJ went to a jazz club (it was too late for me, alas).”
Sweitzer: “One of my favorite parts of the trip was walking with everyone around and exploring the city. The views were amazing.”
Porres: “I loved getting to know AJ. She’s a blessing and it is a gift to know her and that was my favorite part of the trip. I loved seeing new places and people, I liked hearing people speak and formulating ideas for our Honors Program, I also really enjoyed eating good food and flying to Chicago.”
McFall: “So there are lots of favorite things. But for me, my favorite thing was the same thing it always is when I travel with students — the chance to get to know AJ and Isabel better and to watch their eyes as they see new things and put what they learned at Newman into practice.”
Sweitzer: “I am truly grateful for being chosen to go on this trip and I have learned a tremendous amount.”
McFall: “I’ve taken students to conferences for almost as long as I’ve been at Newman. In every case, I’ve been inspired by what Newman students can do. And I’ve watched them come back home and make Newman a better place because of their time away. I can’t wait to see how AJ and Isabel make a difference at Newman because of their experience in Chicago.”
The Honors Program at Newman University empowers high-achieving students to transform society. Together, we build a strong community, hone our academic skills and learn more about our earth and the people on it.
For months, the two attended RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) classes every Tuesday night to learn more about the Catholic faith. Then on Christ the King Sunday, Nov. 26, Fullerton and Green officially became members of the Catholic Church in St. John’s Chapel.
Fullerton received three sacraments on Christ the King Sunday: Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion.
Fullerton, a secondary education math major, decided to join the church after being introduced to the young adult Catholic community in Wichita. Marcus Lines and Jose Morales, previous Newman students, introduced Fullerton to what the Catholic Church entails. These conversations combined with his own independent research solidified his decision to become Catholic.
“I regularly went to Mass and grew a sincere faith in the Eucharist. With this faith came an irresistible desire to receive Jesus. This was the final push that persuaded me that the Catholic Church is the same church Jesus entrusted to his disciples,” Fullerton said.
Faith has always been an aspect of Fullerton’s life but he didn’t fully immerse himself until his second semester here at Newman. He describes himself as a “lukewarm Christian” before finding his faith.
“Newman has seen me at my lowest and now at my highest. Looking back, it is clear that God led me to Newman University so that I would first be broken, then find authentic faith, and at last come home to the Catholic Church,” said Fullerton.
Fullerton said he is excited to encounter Jesus in confession and holy communion.
“I’m also excited to be a witness to the Catholic Church and help lead others to the truth,” he said.
Green is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Music Education, K-12, vocal emphasis and a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance at Friends University. He is a member of the Singing Quakers and has performed in several of its opera productions.
In April of 2023, Green began the process of joining RCIA. Since RCIA typically concludes in April due to it being Easter, Green decided to check with Newman to see if they were doing any RCIA classes. When Emily Simon, assistant director of Campus Ministry and the Honors Program, affirmed that Newman offered classes, Green took it as a sign.
Over the summer, while Green was taking RCIA classes, he got the opportunity to travel to Spain and Portugal with the Singing Quakers.
“When I went to Spain and Portugal with the Singing Quakers, I got to sing and tour some of the most amazing churches I’d ever seen. I saw relics and books that just baffled me. I went inside this cathedral in Portugal. The cathedral had wooden remnants of the manger of Christ. When I read the words, my knees buckled and I just fell in awe. When I came back to the U.S., I immediately told everyone I was ready to come home to God’s kingdom on Earth,” said Green.
Green went to the University of Kansas (KU) for a semester and then came back to Wichita because he wanted to be closer to family and his hometown.
“I missed my hometown here in Wichita. I had a lot of teachers from high school who were Friends alumni and I was offered a wonderful scholarship directly from President Amy Carey herself. They quickly made me feel welcome and I loved being back in a Christian-based educational environment,” said Green.
Green’s dad was a youth pastor at Central Christian Church in Wichita for about 15 years. He grew up with bookshelves packed with theology, Christian spiritual formation, faith and commentary books. Green was baptized at age 7 and continued to have a life where Christ was always present, but not always the center. While at KU, Green began his search into Catholicism.
“I was very misinformed about Catholicism all the way through college,” Green explained. “It wasn’t because my dad or even my churches taught me such things, but solely my views and what pop culture said. Then, I met my now fiancé. She is Catholic, and I remember our first date when she told me she was Catholic. I was dumbfounded. The first question I asked her was, ‘don’t you guys worship Mary?’ She was very quick to explain and at least clarify all my misconceptions. It was that single (interaction) that led me to do my own research. She began the process but in no means was the reason I became Catholic.”
Since joining the Catholic Church, Green wakes up every morning and chooses to follow and love Christ.
“I love being able to regularly receive Christ in his entirety in the most true, real and beautiful way. Being a Christian isn’t just following Christ, but it is waking up every morning, choosing Christ, choosing to obey his commands, receiving him every morning and receiving him in his entirety through the Eucharist,” said Green.
At Newman, students will grow in fellowship, service, sacramental life and faith formation through Campus Ministry programming and community.
Regan’s new position is one of several opportunities made possible by the $2.2 million Title III grant “Navigating the University Experience: Integrating Student and Faculty Support for Increased Retention, Graduation and Professional Achievement.” A Center for Teaching and Learning will also be established on the first floor of the Dugan Library as a hub for faculty support.
Lori Steiner, Ph.D., dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and associate professor of mathematics, explained that the overarching purpose of the Center for Teaching and Learning is to promote teaching that leads to impactful student learning.
According to the Title III grant proposal, “By supporting Newman faculty in becoming more effective teachers, the center will support the university’s educational mission and enhance students’ learning experiences.”
Born and raised in Chicago, Regan joined Newman’s English faculty in 2006, having previously served from 2001-2006 as an assistant professor of English at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas.
At a previous institution, she developed a “Reacting to the Past” pedagogy of teaching through historical simulation.
While at Newman, she has pioneered several different pedagogies, including learning communities, service learning, peer-led writing workshops and storytelling circles both in the classroom and community. In 2008 Regan won the Teaching Excellence Award at Newman.
With more than 30 years spent teaching, Regan is no stranger to professional development — something she’s found to be “energizing, invigorating and life-giving.”
“Our first loyalty is to our students and every professor at Newman shares that common ground,” Regan explained. “But in the past, we’ve spent little time being present in that space — of relating to our colleagues and collaborating around the things that matter most.”
As director of teaching and learning, Regan is passionate about establishing a sustainable, supportive infrastructure for faculty — with resources from stipends and scholarships to workshops and technologies. Regan’s mission is to provide a space where faculty are given the resources they need to live out their calling to the fullest.
Steiner describes Regan as “highly skilled, passionate and current in pedagogical best practices” — attributes that will without a doubt benefit faculty and students alike.
“Marguerite is creative, energetic and a skilled facilitator as well as knowledgeable in culturally relevant pedagogies,” Steiner said. “She is passionate about developing collaborative processes that will be essential in understanding faculty needs for helping students learn, grow and be successful toward their goals.”
Our first loyalty is to our students and every professor at Newman shares that common ground.
Marguerite Regan, director of teaching and learning
One aspect of the Center for Teaching and Learning’s support includes a new learning assistant pilot program currently underway for the spring semester.
Modeled after the evidence-based University of Colorado Boulder learning assistant program, the pilot implements peer-led team learning to foster inclusive, learner-centered STEM classrooms. It also builds on the collaboration of faculty, students, the Center for Teaching and Learning, the Student Success Center and the Title III grant.
Regan explained that learning assistants are different from teaching assistants and tutors in that they serve as “pedagogical partners” to the instructor.
“The partnership offers valuable insight to the instructor on the classroom environment and student learning experience, and it calls on the duo to co-design and co-implement evidence-backed pedagogies for facilitating small group learning,” she added. “Learning assistants also serve as helpful, knowledgeable peers to students enrolled in the class.”
Students Sam Roy, Margaret Koenig and AJ Sweitzer currently serve as learning assistants. Regan is confident that creating collaborative learning environments with faculty and learning assistants will “reignite our passion, allow us to be creative and grow.”
Not only will it encourage innovative ways of teaching neurodiverse students but it also will foster linguistic responsiveness for international students, heritage speakers and second- and third-language learners.
“Teaching and learning is the soul of our university,” Regan said. “We’re really working on supporting ALL learners, growing and reaching all of our students, regardless of backgrounds, abilities and learning styles.”
Regan added, “I’m really excited to help integrate these objectives and continue supporting our students by supporting faculty.”
College life is more than classes, books, tests and residence halls — it’s about connecting with other people, making lifelong friends and future colleagues and building relationships with experienced faculty who can be a resource in your career and your life for years to come.
Gilchrist originally transferred from Butler Community College with an interest in Newman’s occupation therapy assistant program. When the program was discontinued, the respiratory care program piqued his interest.
“I looked at Newman’s graduation rates and passing rates for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam, and they were really good,” Gilchrist said. “Around 98% of Newman students pass the exam on the first try. So I figured it’d be worth the money.”
The Gilchrist family has a history of working within the helping profession; his mother is a nurse and his father worked as an emergency medical technician. For Gilchrist, the adrenaline-packed job motivates him to help others in a similar setting.
“With respiratory care, you’re the first ones if there’s a code or a rapid response in the hospital to help intubate,” Gilchrist explained. “I’m interested in the field because I can relate to people, help them through it and I know I can work well under pressure.”
Gilchrist, a self-proclaimed visual learner, is grateful for his knowledgeable professors, one-on-one teaching and hands-on experience in a lab setting.
“If I need extra help, they’re always willing to help me,” he said. “Newman works closely with Ascension Via Christi and Wesley Medical Center, which sets you up for your future job.”
Newman definitely prepares you for working with patients and our professors teach us everything we need to know.
Bryson Gilchrist, respiratory care student
As Newman students, Gilchrist and three others have the opportunity to attain real-world experience together through their current internships at Ascension Via Christi. They work on patient assessments, charting and breathing treatments with bronchodilators — all of which bring textbook concepts to life.
Classmate Sataizha White said working with Gilchrist at Ascension Via Christi has been “extremely helpful.”
“As first-year respiratory therapy students and health care workers, it can be difficult to adjust and get a nice feel for everything,” White said. “We have been able to help each other tremendously with any questions about treatments or medications we have to complete.”
One observation that stands out for Gilchrist is the level of preparedness Newman students have in the hospital setting versus students from other colleges.
“We work with a lot of other students and I have noticed a difference. We take eight practice exams for the NBRC in our final semester whereas other students might not take any and just have to wing it,” he said.
Gilchrist will graduate with his associate’s degree in respiratory therapy in December 2024 with plans to earn his bachelor’s followed by a master’s.
“If you’re thinking about Newman, I definitely recommend it,” Gilchrist said. “You hear all these stories about working in a hospital, but you can’t correlate it to real life until you experience it and have seen it for yourself. Newman prepares you for working with patients and our professors teach us everything we need to know.”
With numerous networking opportunities and a 2:1 or 1:1 student-clinical preceptor ratio, our respiratory care students are given the tools and attention necessary to succeed.
The Student Success Center is designed to empower and support Newman students with improved access to academic, mental health and career services.
Visitors can take advantage of several functions including the Jets Welcome Center, a soundproof testing center, two conference rooms (one of which is reservable) and the newly opened Sacred Grounds Coffee & Café. Adaptive spaces can be customized to suit the needs of users and facilitate peer collaboration with movable chairs, tables and whiteboards.
With 72% of Newman’s student body living off campus, the Student Success Center provides an ideal place for commuter students to study, socialize or grab a bite to eat between classes. The center also gives students an even more efficient way to take advantage of makeup exams, academic accommodations, F1 international student services, workshops, career coaches, counseling sessions or tutoring services, which are offered in-person by appointment or virtually 24/7.
“We are here for the students, and our hope when it comes to the Student Success Center is that they utilize all the services we offer,” said Sarah Rupp, director of career services. “We want to see everybody succeed.”
Rupp and her fellow team members, Student Support Specialist Madeline Vardell and Mental Health Project Coordinator Anna Waggoner, are eager to continue providing critical services for student success, now in a centralized location.
“Even if a student is stuck and not sure what they need or what to do, the Student Success Center is a great place to start,” Rupp said. “Our doors are typically open and appointments can be scheduled through our Student Success Center assistants at the front desk.”
At the Jan. 19 grand opening ceremony, Vice President of Academic Affairs Alden Stout emphasized what this space represents for Newman University as a whole.
“When you go into a classroom, that’s a space for learning,” Stout said. “There are sacred spaces, and those are spaces for worship and reflection. This is a space for student success. And one of the exciting things is we’re going to expand this open concept and level of engagement throughout the rest of the first floor of the learning center to make it a hub for students.”
Several Newman students have already taken advantage of the new center’s resources. Senior Hope Strickbine is particularly excited to see new life given to the campus space.
“The other day I saw people using the space to study and hang out,” Strickbine said. “I love that the tutoring center moved over here and that people will be in a space where they can come by more regularly and enjoy it.”
Stout shared that, for the Newman community to “empower graduates to transform society” as stated in the university mission, the students “must first be transformed.”
“Having a location for that transformative work — a hub and energy to permeate through the rest of campus — symbolizes what we do every day,” he said.
The $1.5 million project to renovate the Student Success Center was made possible with the help of $150,000 from a Title III grant from the U.S. Department of Education, gifts from individual alumni, friends of Newman University and a $350,000 grant from the Sunderland Foundation.
Newman President Kathleen Jagger, Ph.D., MPH, shared her gratitude to every person who supported the renovation of the Student Success Center from its inception.
“We need to create spaces where students can work with other students, peer tutors and faculty, where they can dream, imagine and prepare joint presentations,” Jagger said. “All that is possible in this new space.”
Newman University would like to thank the following for supporting the Student Success Center project: Dondlinger and Alloy Construction, the Dwane L. and Velma Lunt Wallace Charitable Foundation, Jagger, Vice President for Finance and Administration Tony Beata, Vice President of Institutional Advancement Bob Beumer, Stout, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs Jill Fort, Rupp, Vardell, former Director of Student Success Kate Bussell, the university’s generous donors, the Board of Trustees and the Adorers of the Blood of Christ.
The mission of the Student Success Center is to support all Newman University students on their academic journey.
Feeling & Healing Therapy opened in July 2023 and provides services to children, pre-teen, adolescents and adults within clinical and educational systems across southeast Kansas.
Nolasco was inspired to start a practice that focused on the Hispanic community, while still serving individuals from all backgrounds. She said there was a need for more bilingual providers in the Wichita community and felt called to step into that role.
Working at a coop K-12 school is how she fell in love with working with youth. In addition to running her practice, she also works for Saint Francis Ministries as a family-centered therapist in their family-centered treatment program.
“My goal is to help those that are wanting the help, provide them an outlet for growth,” said Nolasco. “And I’ve found that people who seek help are definitely ready to do the work. Seeing that is inspirational. That keeps me in therapy — seeing people wanting to make change and hoping to make change, which isn’t always easy.”
Nolasco is also working on certifying her 6-year-old black lab mix, Layla, as a therapy animal. She said therapy animals can be a big help with patient treatment, especially in comforting the client.
“I’ve seen this to be helpful in the schools, and being able to self-regulate children and have a presence in the classroom was amazing to watch,” said Nolasco. “Layla has passed all her tests and will complete the therapy training while working with Love on the Leash.
Working with and making connections with her clients is her favorite part of the job.
“The little ones are my favorite because of the connections made with them and their family. What that might look like is them struggling with emotional regulation, so I involve the parents by giving them tools and a change of language to use when their children are upset. The parents are happy to work together to help their children succeed.”
My goal is to help those that are wanting the help, provide them an outlet for growth.
Eva Nolasco ‘20, Master of Social Work graduate
Nolasco is actively pursuing her clinical license. Doing so will take her two years as she staffs cases with her clinical supervisor, learning the best way to be an effective therapist. She plans on completing her license in 2025.
Currently, Nolasco works in her practice on Saturdays and Tuesday evenings. Eventually, she would like to run her private practice full-time and offer holistic services that focus on therapy and mental health including meditation, yoga and more.
New patients can call or email using the contact information on the Feeling & Healing website.
Our cutting-edge trauma-competent curriculum prepares clinical, school, and administrative practitioners with the necessary trauma competencies to deliver high-quality, responsive services.
“Seek and you shall find;
knock and the door shall be opened unto you.”
Matthew 7:7More than 20,000 college students, priests, religious brothers and sisters and campus ministers attended the 2024 SEEK conference in St. Louis Jan. 1-5. Among those were 22 Newman University students as well as Father Adam Grelinger and Assistant Director of Campus Ministry and the Honors Program Emily Simon, all of whom traveled together by bus.
The five-day conference gave attendees the chance to witness live presentations from renowned Catholic speakers like Father Mike Schmitz, Emily Wilson and Jason Evert and meet Catholic students and organizations from across the globe.
For freshman Steven Brown, a theater major, meeting Schmitz was “really something special.”
“When people talked about meeting St. Pope John Paul II back in the day, they described this sort of light from him,” Brown said. “I could feel that vibe from Father Mike Schmitz because he’s influenced so many people with the ‘Bible in a Year’ podcast. Through that podcast, he’s helped me become more holy and motivated to follow God as a Catholic.”
SEEK attendees experienced a Mass offered by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York, and heard the band Judah and the Lion give a lively performance.
“It was pretty amazing,” Simon said. “We also ran into a couple of Newman alumni, including seminarians who are attending Kenrick, like Koby Nguyen and Conrad Sissell) and Karen Do.”
For Brown, other highlights included attending Mass at The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, meeting author Jason Evert and receiving a signed copy of his book “Male, Female, Other?” and growing in friendship with fellow students Austin Fullerton, Charles Morrison, An Tran and Zeke Oberley. He also described a moving, two-hour-long Adoration session shared with thousands of people simultaneously.
“Even though we were kneeling on concrete, Adoration felt like it flew by,” Brown said. “People were crying and saying ‘¡Viva Cristo Rey!’ (meaning ‘Long Live Christ the King!’). It was a powerful moment and I could feel the Lord speak to me in a way.”
Newman senior and seminarian Colby McKee experienced the same profound impact from Adoration.
“One of my biggest takeaways was the beauty of being able to see 20,000 people in this massive stadium and all of these people are seeking out Christ in an intentional way by being at SEEK,” he said.
McKee was also struck by the prominent theme of God’s mercy throughout the five days.
“One circumstance was when Chris Stefanick spoke of his grandmother-in-law converting at her deathbed after he spoke of the good thief on the cross next to Jesus being forgiven,” McKee said. “The other was when a speaker spoke of simply talking to a friend who was dealing drugs and deep in sin. He told him that God’s mercy was enough, God loves you, and he wants to forgive you. He turned his whole life around.”
You don’t have to go out and do amazing stuff and then God will love you. He loves you here and now, he always has and he always will.
Steven Brown
McKee added, “Sometimes we think we are not worth being saved or we’re too far gone, but these are lies. We are very good according to our creator himself and he died for us because we are worth it. He loves us.”
Brown echoed McKee’s thoughts, reflecting on how the self-improvement journey can drive people to “always want to get better.”
“And I’m definitely one of those people,” Brown said. “But sometimes we forget that part of the journey of growing closer to God is realizing that God loves you right now. You don’t have to go out and do amazing stuff and then he’ll love you. He loves you here and now, he always has and he always will, and through him you can do anything.”
Brown’s faith has grown exponentially as a Newman University student, in a big part thanks to Campus Ministry, he said.
“I’ve never appreciated Mass as much as I do now,” Brown. “I’m looking forward to more opportunities to grow in my faith at Newman.”
Discover opportunities for fellowship, faith formation, service and sacramental life at Newman University.
Newman will host a series of exciting events Feb. 1 through March 4, 2024, that celebrate our founders the Adorers of the Blood of Christ (ASC), as well as our namesake St. John Henry Newman. Additionally, the Newman community is hosting a variety of Black History Month events including lunch and learns.
From student contests and scavenger hunts to guest speakers and honorary Mass celebrations, there are a variety of ways to commemorate Newman University’s Catholic heritage and school spirit.
Browse the full schedule of Heritage Month events below.
Heritage Month Student Contest (Feb. 1–16)
Students can submit their essay, graphic art or TikTok responses to the question “What advice would St. Maria or St. Newman give to you students living in today’s world?” Out of all entries, three winners (of any category) will receive prizes for their work.
Mass in honor of St. Maria De Mattias (Feb. 1)
Join us at noon in St. John’s Chapel to kick off Heritage Month with a Mass in honor of St. Maria De Mattias, founder of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ. Then join us for a lunch of Italian food and birthday cake in Mabee Dining Center, sponsored by Campus Ministry.
Join us for Art for Lunch — a chance for students to enjoy a pizza lunch and hear from the Steckling Gallery’s monthly featured artist — every Thursday before the First Friday of the month. Art for Lunch is at noon in the Steckline Gallery.
This month’s featured artist is Lauren Fitzgerald presenting her work “Symbiosis.”
Staff, faculty and outside guests are welcome to attend, but we ask that you please bring your lunch with you.
All students are invited to join Campus Ministry in celebrating a Catholic feast day at 12:30 p.m. (following Mass). We’ll meet in the student center to enjoy lunch and a presentation or activity to celebrate.
Community members are invited to First Friday in the Steckline Gallery, 5-7 p.m. every first Friday of the month.
This month’s featured artist is Lauren Fitzgerald presenting her work “Symbiosis.”
Medallion Scavenger Hunt (Feb. 5-9)
Students, look out for clues in the Jet Broadcast and search the campus for the Newman Medallion Feb. 5-9. The first person to find it and turn it in to Sister Therese Wetta (first floor, Sacred Heart Hall) wins a prize.
MLK Jr. Distinguished Service Award ceremony (Feb. 8)
Student Life invites you to be part of the Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Service Award ceremony on Feb. 8 from 4-5 p.m. in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center. This event honors Newman students, faculty and staff who demonstrate a solid commitment to fostering positive change, promoting inclusivity, and advancing the cause of equality for all.
Use the following link to nominate your candidate: https://forms.gle/bMQ5Bqxy6PtEfURv7
Beyond February: Unearthing Hidden Gems in Black History (Feb. 13)
J. Michelle Vann presents an overview of Black History Month during a special noon luncheon in the Dugan Conference Center. Vann is a featured TEDx speaker and international presenter as well as an Amazon bestselling author of books that help women heal their minds, bodies, and spirits. She is a community servant at heart, serving in her local church and various community organizations. Please RSVP here.
Lunch and Learn: Black Inventors (Feb. 16)
Brad Richards from The Kansas African American Museum joins us to explore the wealth of Black inventors and their integral contributions as part of our Black History Month celebration. Lunch provided at noon in Bishop Gerber Science Center room 105. Please RSVP here.
Contest submissions due (Feb. 16)
All essay, graphic arts and TikTok entries for the Heritage Month student contest are due by 11:59 p.m.
St. Newman’s Birthday – Mass & High Tea (Feb. 21)
Celebrate the birthday of our namesake, St. Newman, in style. First, join us in the celebration of Mass at noon in St. John’s Chapel. Then head to one of Newman’s most beloved on-campus traditions: the St. John Henry Newman High Tea.
From 2-7 p.m. in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center, enjoy this come-and-go event with tea, delicious finger foods and the company of the Newman community. Guests are encouraged to wear their fanciest hats, peruse the one-of-a-kind tea sets on each decorated table and pay homage to St. Newman’s English heritage.
Dueling Pianos Night at Newman University includes a yummy dinner, drinks and a fun, exciting, and interactive performance by the dueling pianos guys from HiFi Productions. Bring your tip money and try to stump them with your obscure favorite song. All proceeds from this event will go towards the 5th Annual Newman University Giving Day on Feb. 28.
Doors open at 6 p.m. in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center.
Early bird tickets are available through Jan. 31 for $30; after Jan. 31 tickets will be $38 per person. Purchase tickets here
Join us for a 7 p.m. performance by students of the Sloppy Joe Improv Troupe in the Jabara Flexible Theatre.
Spaghetti Supper with the ASC sisters (Feb. 27)
Students are welcome to join the ASC sisters for a free and delicious spaghetti supper at 5:15 p.m. at The Landing (across from Carrocci Hall).
2024 Giving Day at Newman (Feb. 28)
For 24 hours on Giving Day Wednesday, Feb. 28, generations of Newman Jets will come together in celebration and support of the university by giving back to the area of campus that matters most to them.
Visit newmanu.edu/givingday to make a difference!
Pop Culture Through the Decades Trivia Night (Feb. 28)
As part of Newman University’s Annual Giving Day, Student Life will be hosting a Pop Culture Through the Decades Trivia Night at 6:30 p.m. Assemble your team and compete against other members of the Newman community in this contest where your knowledge of movies, television, game shows, music, sports and other popular culture events will be put to the test.
Sign up today with a maximum number of six individuals per team to compete for first place, a $300 gift card prize pack!
General public pricing is $10 per person, or $50 for a six-person table. RSVP here.
Student tickets are $5 per person. RSVP here.
Join us for Art for Lunch — a chance to enjoy lunch and hear from the Steckling Gallery’s monthly featured artist — every Thursday before the First Friday of the month. Art for Lunch is at noon in the Steckline Gallery.
Join us for one of the liveliest events of the academic year — Newman University Homecoming. Cheer on the Jets as the basketball teams take on Missouri Western in the Fugate Gymnasium. Women play at 5:30 p.m. and the men’s game starts at 7:30 p.m.
Celebrate the crowning of student Homecoming royalty at halftime of the men’s basketball game in the Fugate Gymnasium.
Newman theater presents “Treasure Island” (March 1-3)
Join us for the Newman theater production “Treasure Island” March 1-3.
Tickets are available for purchase online or at the door. Reserve your tickets online today: https://onthestage.tickets/newman-university
Students, get ready to sport your best attire for this evening filled with music, delicious food, and memory-making moments with your Newman friends. The fun is from 7-9 p.m. in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center.
This event is not open to the public.
Student Spiritual Retreat (March 2)
Rest and rejuvenate during this student spiritual retreat sponsored by Mission Integration, Campus Ministry and the ASCs.
Join us for a Mass at noon in St. John’s Chapel followed by a social to close out Heritage Month.
“Symbiosis” will be on display Jan. 31- Feb. 24. An artist talk, which includes a discussion with the artist and pizza lunch for Newman students, will take place Feb. 1 from noon to 1 p.m. All events are free and open to the public.
Fitzgerald is best known for artwork made from multiple layers of hand-cut paper. As a multidisciplinary artist, Fitzgerald takes inspiration from recurring patterns, shapes and twisted lines found in nature. Her low-relief process uses an array of organic and abstract imagery to create the final product.
Fitzgerald’s work has been featured in magazines including “Cineplex,” “Hunger Mountain” and “Women’s Focus,” as well as the book “The Art of Being Bill.” Fitzgerald’s artwork is also part of the permanent collection of the Kansas Leadership Center in Wichita and was featured in KLC’s art publication “In Plain View.”
Fitzgerald received her bachelor’s in art from Friends University and her Master of Fine Arts in visual art from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She has showcased artwork in several solo and group exhibitions locally and across the country. She is based in the Midwest.
To explore more of Fitzgerald’s artwork, visit her website, https://laurenfitzgeraldart.com/.
The Steckline Gallery is located inside the De Mattias Fine Arts Center on the Newman campus, 3100 McCormick. The gallery is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays or by appointment.
For more information, email gallery director Shannon Johnston at johnstons@newmanu.edu.
Interested in exhibiting at the Steckline Gallery?
Also known as “A Play in a Day,” the 24-hour Theater Project challenges teams to write, direct, rehearse and perform a play from start to finish within 24 hours. This year’s project starts 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19, and performances begin 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20.
There are several jobs to choose from: actor, playwright, director, stage manager, props, costumes, promotion/ graphic design, lights, sound and other support. All who are interested in being a part of the excitement must complete the electronic form.
Participants aren’t limited to Newman University students, alumni, faculty or staff, either — the 24-hour Theater Project is open to anyone in the community to participate.
Teams will be chosen at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19, in the Jabara Flexible Theatre in De Mattias Fine Arts Center at Newman. Writers begin writing new plays at 8 p.m. and have until 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, to complete their work. At this time, directors and actors will arrive to start memorizing scripts, blocking and rehearsing.
Performances for the 24-hour Theater Project begin at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, in the Jabara Flexible Theatre. Guest admission is $3 per person at the door.
Alumnus Cole Schnieders ‘21 participated in two 24-hour Theater Projects during his time at Newman. One of the most exciting aspects of the challenge, he said, is that “you have such limited time.”
“You would think that having 12 hours would be a restraint, but it is actually very freeing,” Schnieders said in an interview last April. “There is no wrong answer. In this 12-hour period, I just have to write, and write freely. Then you push it out into the world as your creative, team-produced process.”
If you’re interested in being a part of the exhilarating creative process, submit your form and plan to meet at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14 in the Jabara Flexible Theatre. The stage awaits!
Questions? Contact Newman Director of Theater Mark Mannette at mannettem@newmanu.edu.