‘Newman U. at Dodge Brew’ sets stage for higher education dialogue

Oct 08, 2009

Anheuser-Busch and local chefs to provide tasty refreshments

DODGE CITY, KAN. – In mid-October Newman University officials will be present in Dodge City to connect with individuals and to hear their views on the higher education needs in Western Kansas. The event is open to the public in Dodge City and the surrounding communities.

“We’ve heard the desire from some people in the Dodge City area that they would like more course opportunities offered through Newman’s center in Hennessey Hall,” said Tom Heydman, Newman University director of the Western Kansas Education Center and Assistant Professor of Education. “We want to engage in more conversations with more people on this topic and, of course, we wanted to have some fun doing it so we’ve created the ‘Newman U. at Dodge Brew’ event.”

The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Hoover Pavilion in Dodge City. The gathering will feature sample seasonal brews from Anheuser-Busch and appetizers prepared by local chefs while providing the opportunity for individuals to participate in the conversation about the higher education needs in Western Kansas. Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. as well as other university representatives will be in attendance, and welcome all feedback from the community on this topic.

Newman University began serving Western Kansas in 1992 with the closing of St. Mary of the Plains. Newman continues the mission of educating teachers for the area with unique programs and delivery methods to suit the educational needs of the people. Newman’s Western Kansas Education Center began operations in Hennessey Hall on the St. Mary of the Plains campus. Since 1992, Newman has educated more than 600 teachers in Western Kansas. In addition, Newman provides English as a Second Language (ESL) endorsement for licensed teachers in the area, as well as theology courses and a master of social work degree.

Newman officials are grateful for the support from the community and education sectors in the area. The event could not be possible without the assistance of the following committee members: Joe Bogner, President, Western Beverage, Inc.; John Bogner, Western Beverage, Inc.; Chris Boys, American Family Insurance; Jim Coffin, J-A-G Construction; Carol Henderson, NU alum and community volunteer;

JoAnn Knight, Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation; and Brian Weber, Weber Refrigeration, NU alum and Dodge City Council Member.

“Our Western Kansas program continues to have a strong appeal and we’ve really grown our alumni pool in this region of the state,” said Heydman. “In addition, the support we’ve received for this event from our alumni and the area businesses has been tremendous. We’re looking forward to a great time.”

Tickets are $25 per person, $30 after Oct. 9. Proceeds benefit Western Kansas student scholarships. To purchase tickets online and to see who’s attending, visit www.newmanuatdodgebrew.eventbrite.com. For tickets you may also call 620-227-9616.

FacebookTwitterEmailShare