Newman University senior Isabella Torres has been named a 2025 recipient of the Kansas Independent College Foundation’s (KICF) Maud Wyatt Recognition Scholarship, an honor reserved for high-achieving students who exemplify academic excellence, integrity and service across the state’s private colleges.
Torres, a biology major with a Spanish minor, maintains a 3.56 grade point average and plans to attend medical school in Kansas. She is one of only 18 students across the state selected for the scholarship, which includes a $1,547.50 award to support their final year of undergraduate studies.
“My immediate reaction when I learned I had received this award was pure happiness and gratitude,” said Torres, who is from Wichita. “I feel so honored and thankful, especially knowing that it recognizes academics, character and integrity. I’m also grateful for the support I’ve received from my family, friends and professors.”
Established by the KICF, the Maud Wyatt Recognition Scholarship celebrates students nearing graduation who embody the mission of private higher education in Kansas.
Torres’ dedication to service, mentoring and future plans in health care made her an ideal candidate, according to Newman University President Kathleen S. Jagger, Ph.D., MPH.
“Isabella is an exceptional student whose academic excellence, dedication to service and compassion for others reflect the heart of Newman University’s mission,” Jagger said. “She is not only preparing for a career in health care — she is already making a meaningful impact on our campus and in the community. Her work with Hispanic first-generation students, development of academic support resources and cross-cultural health advocacy make her a standout leader and a deserving recipient of this honor.”
Torres’ Hispanic initiatives
Through her studies and mentorship from Sonja Bontrager, assistant professor and co-director of Hispanic initiatives at Newman, Torres has focused on improving communication with Spanish-speaking patients and addressing health disparities.
“Professor Bontrager’s courses helped me build confidence and prepare to break language barriers in healthcare settings,” she said. “My science and honors courses have equipped me for the academic rigor ahead and my service work has shaped my ability to listen and empathize, which are essential in medicine.”
As a first-generation student, Torres understands the challenges of navigating higher education and is deeply invested in supporting others navigating the college journey. She is currently developing a “Failure Kit” to help underclassmen build resilience in the face of academic challenges and leads initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility for Hispanic families exploring higher education.
“I know firsthand how isolating the college experience can feel,” she said. “I want to break that isolation and provide support, especially by bridging language and information gaps for Hispanic families.”
Beyond the classroom
Beyond academics, Torres runs cross-country for Newman and has completed more than 200 hours of volunteer service in the Wichita community. She said the scholarship allows her to remain focused on her education and service during her final year.
“This scholarship is going to help me in so many ways,” she said. “It gives me the flexibility to focus on research, coursework, volunteering and staying active. It’s helping me grow closer to my goals and stay involved in giving back to my community.”
Torres encourages prospective students, especially other first-generation students, to look for institutions where they feel supported.
“Find people who believe in you and want you to succeed,” she said. “At Newman, I found academic and emotional support in a community that truly cares. Newman is a place that makes you feel like you are at home.”
More on the KICF Maud Wyatt Scholarship
The Maud Wyatt Recognition Scholarship was established in honor of Maud Wyatt, whose generosity has supported Kansas’ independent colleges since 1961. Recipients are selected from institutions that are part of the Kansas Independent College Association (KICA), which works to enhance the quality and accessibility of private higher education throughout the state.
“The students attending Kansas’ independent colleges are poised to become the leaders, innovators and changemakers our world needs,” KICA president Matthew Lindsey said. “Supporting them through scholarships is one of the most meaningful and impactful roles our association plays.”
For more information about the KICF Maud Wyatt Recognition Scholarship or Kansas’ independent colleges, visit kscolleges.org.
Begin your Newman University journey
At Newman University, we help you discover your difference. Experience a personalized and transformative education that empowers you to make your distinctive mark in the world.
