Newman University is excited to announce the appointment of Michael J. Probus as its new vice president of enrollment management.
Probus brings more than 11 years of higher education experience and a proven track record of driving successful enrollment growth.
Most recently serving as assistant vice president of enrollment at Schreiner University in Kerrville, Texas, Probus led initiatives that resulted in record-breaking enrollment numbers and significant growth in both undergraduate and graduate programs. He oversaw the entire undergraduate and graduate enrollment process, leading a team responsible for pipeline development, enrollment, events, revenue, budgeting and data integrity.
President Kathleen S. Jagger, Ph.D., MPH, is excited for Probus to lead Newman’s enrollment efforts.
“Michael’s experience, coupled with his passion for higher education and commitment to student success, will make him a terrific addition to our leadership team. He is a data-driven decision-maker, strategic planner and servant leader who will be instrumental in advancing Newman University’s enrollment goals and enhancing our student experience,” Jagger said.
The Probus perspective
Probus is grateful for the opportunity he has with Newman.
”I am deeply honored and immensely thrilled to have been selected as the new vice president of enrollment management at Newman University,” Probus said. “This opportunity represents not only a significant milestone in my career but also a chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the broader university community.”
He added, “From the moment I learned of my appointment, I have been filled with a profound sense of gratitude and excitement. I am eager to roll up my sleeves and begin the important work of shaping Newman’s enrollment strategy and fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus environment.”
Probus’ journey began at a Catholic university
Prior to his time at Schreiner, Probus worked at the University of Dallas, his alma mater, where he served as director of admissions. He believes the experience equipped him with leadership abilities, strategic mindset and collaborative approach needed to boost enrollment and improve the overall student experience.
“During my time at UD, I spearheaded initiatives to expand the university’s outreach efforts, streamline admission processes, and strengthen partnerships with community organizations and educational institutions,” Probus said.
Ready for the challenges ahead
Lessons learned at both career stops make him well prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead at Newman.
“I am confident that my background in enrollment management, my expertise in data analysis and strategic planning and my commitment to student success and diversity will enable me to make a meaningful and lasting impact at Newman,” Probus said. “Supporting Newman University’s mission of academic excellence, service and community engagement excites me, and I am committed to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students and community partners to achieve our shared goals.”
A family homecoming
The move to Wichita is a homecoming of sorts for the Probus family. His wife, Melissa, is a Wichita native and has deep roots in the community and cherishes fond memories of her upbringing in the city.
“When the opportunity arose for me to pursue the vice president of enrollment management position at Newman University, we both saw it as a chance to return to a place that holds a special significance for Melissa and her family,” Probus shared.
The family is excited for the move to Kansas.
“My wife and children are looking forward to reconnecting with old friends, exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage and becoming active members of the Newman University community. As a family, we are eager to embrace all that Newman and Wichita have to offer,” Probus said.
First impression about Newman University
Probus’s initial impressions of Wichita’s Catholic university have solidified his conviction that he has found a place where he can truly make a difference.
“Throughout the interview process and my visit to campus, I was struck by the palpable sense of passion and dedication that permeates every aspect of Newman University,” he said.
“From the warm welcome extended to me by faculty and staff to the insightful conversations I had with students, it was evident that Newman is a place where academic excellence and community thrive hand in hand,” Probus continued. “I was particularly impressed by the university’s commitment to its core values and its unwavering focus on empowering students to reach their full potential.”
He has clear priorities for his first year in his role as vice president.
“My primary focus will be on building a solid foundation for success and laying the groundwork for long-term growth and sustainability,” Probus said.
This will involve deeply understanding Newman’s current enrollment landscape and collaborating across the university.
“I will prioritize engaging with key stakeholders across the university, including faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners, to solicit their input and perspectives on how we can enhance our enrollment efforts,” Probus added.
“I will approach the role as a servant leader who embodies and lives out the mission and core values of Newman — to seek truth, better society, live a purposeful life, serve others and transform society.”
Probus began his position June 17. He and Melissa have two daughters, Montserrat and Margot.
Explore Newman University
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.
