Kimberly Lies, a dedicated teacher, was awarded the 2025 Spirit of Acuto Award during Newman University’s Legacy Banquet on April 8.
The Spirit of Acuto Award, named after the birthplace of St. Maria De Mattias and honoring the legacy of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, recognizes alumni who respond to the needs of others and bring meaningful visions to life through their talents and training.
President Kathleen Jagger, Ph.D., MPH, reflected on the significance of the Legacy Banquet and the Spirit of Acuto Award, praising the honorees’ impact.
“I love honoring our alumni who have gone out and been transformative,” Jagger said. “Kimberly Lies is a perfect example of someone who lives out our mission — serving others with compassion and purpose.”
“I was surprised,” Lies said of receiving the award. “It’s humbling and exciting, especially after spending so many hours dedicated to others.”
Lifelong learner and passionate educator
A two-time alumna of Newman University, Lies graduated magna cum laude in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in education and later earned her master’s degree in 2007 with an emphasis in English as a Second Language. But her dedication to learning didn’t stop there. Lies completed extensive training, including Orton-Gillingham certification in a multisensory, structured literacy approach, Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling coursework and crisis intervention certification to better serve her students.
Now a second-grade teacher at Andale Elementary School, Lies is known not only for her excellence in the classroom but also for her tireless commitment to her community. She has developed STEM labs, coached volleyball and mentored future educators.
Going above and beyond for students
Her mother and award nominator Michelle Lies described her daughter as someone who “goes above and beyond for everyone community-wide and they all know and love her.”
At Andale, she serves as a Building Level Team Member, professional development representative, and Local Education Agency representative, in addition to tutoring students year-round, sometimes at no cost to families in need.
She also spent three years tutoring more than 3,500 Chinese students online through VIPKid.com, often teaching in the early morning hours.
“She is constantly working to improve the educational experience for her students,” said Michelle Lies. “When she couldn’t find lesson plans that actively engaged her students, she started making her own to fit the curriculum. That’s just who she is.”
Kimberly is also deeply rooted in her faith. At Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Colwich, she is a member of the altar society, choir and creates monthly liturgical-themed exhibits to engage families and children in the church’s gathering space. She paints original saint portraits and invests her own money into creating an immersive spiritual experience for others.
Additionally, she leads a weekly Bible study at the Wichita Work Release Facility, offering not just scripture and encouragement to incarcerated women but also meals, hospitality and compassion.
“I’m passionate about sharing the love of Christ with others,” Lies said. “Just going weekly downtown Wichita and seeing the homeless on the street reminds me to continually pray for people — no matter who God puts in your corner.”
A legacy shaped by Newman University
During her acceptance speech, Lies acknowledged the impact of her family and Newman community.
“Being part of a small community in college was wonderful,” she said. “Being part of Sacred Heart Parish is wonderful and being a part of Newman is really important to me.”
She also gave a lighthearted nod to her son, Wyatt, who helps bake snacks for her Wednesday night Bible studies.
“The ladies always ask, ‘Did Wyatt bake that?’” she said with a laugh. “Most of the time, he did.”
Lies will always remember her days at Newman fondly, from the volleyball and co-ed softball games and late-night study sessions in the library to “cramming 23 credit hours” while working for the U.S. Postal Service.
“Newman helped me get started right away,” she said. “I’m grateful for the foundation, faith and formation that continue to guide me today.”
Explore Alumni Relations at Newman
Find upcoming events, update your alumni info and nominate fellow alumni for Newman alumni awards.
