Newman University honored the late Douglas L. Stanley with a posthumous Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa degree during the Fall 2013 Commencement ceremony Dec. 14. Stanley’s widow Sheryl Stanley accepted the honorary degree for her late husband, who was chair of the Newman University Board of Trustees at the time of his death in April 2013.
Newman awards honorary degrees at each fall and spring commencement to notable and accomplished members of the extended Newman community whose life and work reflect exemplary dedication to one of the university’s four Core Values: Catholic Identity, Culture of Service, Academic Excellence, and Global Perspective. Stanley was honored for all four Core Values.
Stanley was Managing Partner at Foulston Siefkin Law Firm in Wichita. He was considered a brilliant attorney by his peers, and received many professional honors. Stanley continued working at Foulston Siefkin until his death, following a battle with cancer. He was 57.
Stanley served as a member of the Newman Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2013, and as Board Chair from 2011 to 2013. During that time, he provided outstanding leadership and support to the Board and the university as a whole. Stanley led the Board through its decision to plan and begin “Facing Forward: A Campaign for Newman University,” which will lead to new science and health science facilities. His commitment to the university is evidenced by the fact that he continued working for the Board until just before his passing, even conducting university business from his hospital bed.
Stanley also had a strong commitment to serving his community. He chaired the Greater Wichita Economic Development Coalition Steering Council, and was a member of the Board of Trustees of Exploration Place and the Board of Directors for the Wichita Business Coalition on Health Care. Stanley was a member of many civic, professional and religious organizations.
Stanley was devoted to Sheryl, his wife of 34 years, and his children, Newman alumni Amanda (Stanley) Marshall ’08, Christopher Stanley ’11 and Rachel Stanley ’13, and Newman students Diana Stanley and Katie (Stanley) Potter.
The Newman University Fall 2013 Commencement took place at Central Community Church, 6100 W. Maple. The ceremony included the awarding of degrees to 45 candidates for associate’s degrees, 98 candidates for bachelor’s degrees, and 50 candidates for master’s degrees.
View photos and video of Newman University Fall 2013 graduation activities.
