The Newman University National Alumni Board welcomed eight new members for the 2024-25 academic year. The additions bring a wider level of national participation as well as one international member.
Ami Angell, Ph.D. ’99, Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies
Angell lives in Alexandria, Virginia, where she runs The h3 Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending homelessness and human trafficking. Angell will always remember her thought-provoking classes, singing in the chorale, and the lifelong friends she made — including the Adorers of the Blood of Christ sisters.
She said, “As an alumna of Newman University, I have experienced firsthand the transformative education and values that the university instills in its students. This has shaped my character and my commitment to serving the community.”
Courtney Klaus, JD ’20, Bachelor of Arts in communication and history
Klaus practices law at Polsinelli Law Firm in Kansas City, Missouri, representing businesses and organizations in commercial litigation matters and disputes. She earned her law degree at Notre Dame Law School. Klaus was awarded the 2020 Leona J. Ablah Award and is now an active mentor for pre-law students at Newman.
She said, “The thing I enjoyed the most about Newman was the people. They made me want to get involved on campus and put my best effort into everything that I did.”
José Morales ’23, Bachelor of Arts in theology
Morales was involved in Campus Ministry during his time at Newman. Morales said the education he received at Newman shaped the way that he thinks and widened his view of the world. He cares deeply for Newman University and wants to see the university accomplish its mission as a Catholic institution of higher learning. He now works at Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School in Wichita where he teaches New Testament theology.
He said, “Keeping my faith at the center of my heart has helped me to succeed and pursue my passions, desires and aspirations.”
Kelly Pendergest ’21, Master of Science in Education
Pendergest resides in Indiana and works in the education field as the assistant principal at St Lawrence School. She found Newman University while her husband was stationed at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita.
Pendergest said, “I hope to inspire in my fellow alumni the drive to evangelize the service and family spirit that the Adorers of the Blood of Christ built on campus, in their local communities and career fields.”
Kiel Pratt ’14, Master of Business Administration, paralegal
Pratt is the president and CEO of Legends Sports Academy, where he leads initiatives that support the growth of thousands of young athletes each year. His journey began at Newman University, where he initially pursued the paralegal program, drawn to the institution’s high academic standards. However, his time at Newman opened the door to a passion for athletics, which has since become the core of his career and purpose.
“As a member of the Newman University Alumni Board, I hope to inspire current students by encouraging them to embrace the unexpected,” he said. “My dedication to lifelong learning and my efforts to make a positive impact on society reflect Newman’s mission to empower individuals to transform themselves and the world.”
Marilyn Roberts ’03, ’07, Bachelor of Science in psychology, Master of Business Administration and Master of Social Work
Roberts was the recipient of the 2024 Leon A. McNeill Achievement Award, honoring her church spiritually, contributions to society and demonstrated concern for others. She is the director of social services at Kansas Soldiers Home and is currently working on her doctorate in psychology.
Roberts said, “God gave me peace beyond all understanding. My Christian faith is the most important thing to me and I try to live out the walk as Jesus did.”
Ochola Wayoga ’03, Master of Business Administration
Wayoga is currently a management consultant and entrepreneur with Knowledge Consults Limited. He has been working in the education sector for the past 11 years, as a rector for three years, is CEO of Tanzania Education Network and CEO of African Higher Education Financing Agencies in Africa. He came to Newman through recommendations from friends who were already attending. He hopes to encourage other Newman alumni to remain Newman ambassadors wherever they are.
He said, “As a servant of the people at a church level where I am an elder, and proud parent of three children living in the biggest city in Tanzania, serving people and serving God is my ultimate passion.”
Gloria Christian ’92, Bachelor of Science in business management
Christian is a retired educator living in Topeka, Kansas. She worked in higher education for more than 30 years. She loves being involved and volunteering for community organizations. She believes in showing love, grace and kindness to everyone she meets.
Christian said, “I have always loved and cared for my students and expected them to flourish and succeed in their communities. I am also in touch with both the students’ and the university’s needs.”
Stay connected to Newman University
As a graduate of Newman, there are countless ways to stay connected with fellow alumni, support students and help drive the mission forward.
