This year on Sept. 12, 2022, Newman University’s beloved building Sacred Heart Hall turns 100 years old.
On Sept. 12, 1922, the building’s cornerstone was laid by Most Rev. Bishop Augustus John Schwertner of the Catholic Diocese of Wichita. The following year on June 24, 1923, Sacred Heart Hall was dedicated.
In honor of Sacred Heart Hall turning 100, there will be a celebratory Mass at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 11 in St. John’s Chapel in Sacred Heart Hall. All are welcome to attend.
The heart of Newman University
Not only is it a celebration of the oldest standing building on campus, but it also is a celebration of Newman University’s history and every person who has been a part of it.
Both Newman University President Kathleen Jagger and Sister Therese Wetta, ASC, director of mission effectiveness talked about what the 100th-year celebration and historical milestone mean to them.
“Every single student at Sacred Heart Academy, Sacred Heart Junior College, Sacred Heart College, Kansas Newman and Newman University has likely been in this building at some point in time,” Jagger said. “I just believe this is something not only to be celebrated but also to be appreciated for what Sacred Heart Hall has done for the students throughout the decades here. It is something that binds us all together. I often say Sacred Heart is the heart and soul of our campus because of all of the history it holds. It’s been a presence of every piece in the university’s history.”
I often say Sacred Heart is the heart and soul of our campus because of all the history it holds. It’s been a presence of every piece in the university’s history.
President Kathleen Jagger
Wetta said the celebration gives all members of the Newman community an opportunity to “remember the many generations of people who have lived, worked and served in this building.
“In celebration, we’re honoring the courage and the vision of the people who helped design and build this structure as well as people who have helped renovate it and change it over these hundred years to continue to serve the changing needs and changing populations,” she said.
“It is also the opportunity to gather and share the memories which I think is important, significant and a source of joy,” Wetta said.
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Have a Sacred Heart Hall memory to share?
We’re collecting first and favorite memories from our Newman community members, both past and present, of their time spent in Sacred Heart Hall. Help us capture the building’s rich history by sharing stories you remember from Newman’s oldest building!
