Married couple Todd and Janie Stephenson, pursuing their college degrees at the same time at Newman University has been nothing but a positive experience. They know just what kind of encouragement each other needs and what each other is going through.
“We’re able to support each other through it,” Janie said.
Janie is a social work student at Newman, doing her studies fully online. She also works part time as a CNA at an assisted living facility while raising her and Todd’s two kiddos.
In fact, that’s why she chose to attend Newman in the first place: because of the flexibility the university provides. Janie plans to graduate in 2025 and then pursue a Master of Social Work degree so she can become a licensed social worker and practice family and marriage counseling.
It’s been very encouraging to know I can go to school and be a mom and a wife, and I still can have all the support from the Newman faculty. The professors are wonderful.
Janie Stephenson
Todd has worked at Spirit AeroSystems for the past five years and is the lead in his department. He earned an associate degree from Hutchinson Community College back in 2009 but chose to enter the workforce right after graduating instead of continuing his education.
Todd wanted to eventually earn a higher degree, and Janie ended up encouraging he pursue his options. Next thing he knew, he came across an advertisement for Newman.
He was convinced to pursue a degree in organizational leadership after a Zoom meeting with a couple faculty members via Zoom, including Larry Straub, director of the Doctor of Business Administration program.
“I haven’t looked back since,” Todd said. “It seems to be my calling.”
He’ll graduate this spring with his bachelor’s degree and plans to earn a master’s degree in 2025. Todd is on track to become a manager within Spirit AeroSystems, in part because of his Newman education. He also recently started his own business focused on construction and earthwork.
For both Todd and Janie, attending Newman has been a phenomenal experience.
“It’s been very encouraging to know I can go to school and be a mom and a wife, and I still can have all the support from the Newman faculty,” Janie said. “The professors are wonderful.”
Todd added, “I see Newman as a great tool, and they don’t consider you a number; they consider you a success story just waiting to happen.”
I see Newman as a great tool, and they don’t consider you a number; they consider you a success story just waiting to happen.
Todd Stephenson
Earn an online degree from Newman University
Newman University understands the challenges that come with pursuing higher education while balancing personal and professional commitments. That’s why we offer online/hybrid formats for multiple degrees.
