Challenge Alumni Magazine Fall 2012

Cardinal Newman Medal | Speakers Bureau | Alumni Awards

connected. diverse. ambitious. hopeful.

Challenge Alumni Magazine Fall 2012

The Newman CodeAs a member of the Newman community, I pledge to live in the spirit of critical consciousness by respecting the dignity of every person, honoring both personal and institutional integrity, and striving to embrace all humanity.

Cover photography by Danielle Wallace

Adorers of the Blood of Christ – United States Region Leadership Team

Newman University Board of Trustees

National Alumni Board

Newman University Executive Officers

Barb Hudock, ASC, Regional LeaderMaria Hughes, ASC

Janet McCann, ASCJan Renz, ASCFrancine Schuster, ASC

On the Cover: Newman University students today are nothing like - and everything like – students from previous generations. Learn more on page 8.

Gerald (Jerry) T. AaronRose Therese Bahr, ASCSheryl BakerTeresa Hall BartelsRene Steven BrandNoreen M. Carrocci, PresidentMary Catherine Clark, ASCDenise Ann Clifford, SLKenneth C. DoonanGlenn Dugan ’85Bart Grelinger, MID, FAAN ’83Msgr. Robert HembergerGerry Killeen ’69Michael Ludlow, MD ’78Archie Macias ’74Tony Madrigal

Jan Renz, ASCVera RoblGabrielle Rowe, ASCLarry P. SchumacherBob SimpsonLinda Snook ’77, Vice-ChairDouglas L. Stanley, ChairAnthony Tamburro ‘03, ‘07 Jacqueline ViettiElaine M. Vitello Rev. Thomas A. WelkStephen Williamson, MD ’76 Director Emeritus: Thomas M. Ruane, Sr.

Timothy Belsan ’05Kevin Blick ’05Larry Crow Jr. ’06Sarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ’86, ’90Tad Druart ’87, Vice PresidentPatrick Edwards ’07Jesse Gray ’12Jennifer Green ’88Renee (Soukup) Hein, Ph.D. ’02Ryan Huschka ’07, Faculty RepresentativeDennis Hemken ’73

Luke Knoblauch ’06Jeffrey Lipp ’88Michael W. Ludlow ’08, SecretaryNicole (Lee) Manbeck ’09Leona (Darveau) O’Reilly ’64Diana Rawlings, ASC ’76Chet Schrader, M.D. ’01Judith Simon ’66, ’70Anthony Tamburro ’03, ’07, President

Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. PresidentMichael Austin, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President

for Academic AffairsRhonda Cantrell, M.S. Vice President for

Human ResourcesJohn Clayton, M.Ed. Dean of Admissions

Mark B. Dresselhaus, M.B.A. Vice President for Finance

and AdministrationTroy Horine Vice President for

University AdvancementVictor Trilli, M.S.Ed Director of Athletics

Stev

e Ra

smus

sen

Dear Alumni and Friends,

In this issue of Challenge we take a look at today’s students – who they are, where they come from, what they value and why they chose Newman.

In many ways, this is not a simple task.Every year, hundreds of surveys are produced,

thousands of magazine articles and books are published, many T.V. news stories are broadcast, and an untold

number of blogs, articles and essays appear online focusing on this very topic. From this media, some characteristics and trends emerge, and some conclu-sions can be drawn. Yet in the end we are left with generalized, aggregate portraits at best, and broadly drawn caricatures at worst.

As we all know, each individual student is unique, with his or her own talents, values, opinions and attributes. This has been true of every generation. Not every student in the ‘60s rebelled against the establishment, for example, any more than every student today wastes hours a day keeping up with “friends” on Facebook.

Of course, Newman students have always been different. They may share tastes in music, clothing, and amusements with their counterparts at other colleges across the country. But students at Newman and its predecessor institutions have qualities on a level not always seen at other college campuses – a commit-ment to service, a devotion to faith and desire to grow spiritually, a dedication to excel academically, and an eagerness to blaze new trails for the future while maintaining a heartfelt respect for the past.

Yes, the times may change for Newman students in terms of the language they use (OMG instead of “far out”), the people they choose as role models (Jay-Z rather than Roy Orbison), even the way they learn (online versus classroom). Yet the quality that sets Newman students apart – the ability and drive to transform society – is the same today as it was almost 80 years ago.

I’m willing to bet it will be the same 80 years from now, too.

Thank you for your support of Newman students and all you do for Newman University.

Sincerely,

Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D.

CORRECTION: Steffen and Angela (Giroux ’88) Scheide were incorrectly identified in the 2010-11 Annual Report.

23

6

16 Remembering the Five Martyrs

8 A look at Newman students today

22‘A fitting honor’

Supporting Student Success

Helping hearts

Loving every moment30

It ‘just gets better every year’24

Dani

elle

Wal

lace

Dani

elle

Wal

lace

GP P

hoto

grap

hy

cour

tesy

pho

tocour

tesy

pho

to

Challenge Alumni MagazineFALL 2012

Challenge Magazine is published twice a year, in October and April, by the Office of University Advancement, University Rela-tions Department for alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the university. Send address changes to [email protected] or Alumni Director, Newman University, 3100 McCormick, Wichita, KS, 67213-2097.Mailing lists are confidential and are not furnished to outside organizations. New-man University is a Catholic university named for John Henry Cardinal Newman and founded by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ for the purpose of empowering graduates to transform society. Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleg-es and Schools, 30 N. LaSalle St. Ste. 2400, Chicago, IL, 60602-2504, 312-263-0456. Newman University does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, creed, hand-icap, national or ethnic origin. ©2012 Newman University

CHALLENGE Vol. 49 Issue 1

NEWMAN UNIVERSITY

PresidentNoreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D.

Vice President for University AdvancementTroy Horine

Director, Alumni RelationsSarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ’86, ’90

Director, CommunicationsKelly Snedden, M.A.

Director, Editorial ServicesKen Arnold

PUBLICATIONS STAFF

EditorsKen ArnoldKelly Snedden

Contributing WritersKen ArnoldSarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ‘86, ‘90David DinellJesika ElmquistPatrick GallagherJean SchildzNick Veith ‘11Chelsea Whipple

Graphic DesignSonny Laracuente’12Prasuz Tamrakar ’09Andrea Unrein ’09

PrintingDonlevy Lithograph, Inc.

2 NewmanNews

4 NUAthletics

16 NUPerspectives

20 NUGiving

26 AlumniNews

33 ClassNotes

http://challenge.newmanu.edu

NewmanNews

2 | N E W M A N C H A L L E N G E

Newman University of Wichita, Kan., U.S.A. entered into a partnership with Newman University, Birmingham, UK in February 2012 that will offer students more opportu-nities for study abroad.

While the partnership is initially a student-exchange program, university officials on both sides of the Atlantic hope it will develop to include faculty and staff exchanges, combined research oppor-tunities, and perhaps other

initiatives. The idea to form an agreement grew from a 2010 visit to Birmingham by Newman officials for the beatification of Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman.

Newman University in Birmingham was founded in 1968, and has one of the highest graduate employment rates of any higher education institu-tion in the UK. Like Newman in America, it began as a teach-ers college, and is named for Blessed John Henry Newman.

Two American Newman students are now studying in Birmingham. Look for more information about their

experience abroad and Newman University UK in an upcoming edition of Challenge.

Sister Diane Leary, Monsignor Thomas McGread to be honored Diane Leary, CSJ and Monsi-gnor Thomas McGread will each be awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa during Fall 2012 Commence-ment, Dec. 15. The university bestows the honorary degrees upon members of the extended Newman community based on exemplary dedication to one of the university’s Core Values: Catholic Identity, Culture of Service, Academic Excellence, and Global Perspective.

Sister Diane was selected for her commitment to Academic Excellence. Over an illustri-ous career as coach, athletics administrator and educator for Newman and other Catholic schools, Sister Diane stressed to student-athletes the

importance of academics as well as athletics. During her career, she taught history, math, religion, science, Russian culture and other subjects, and is known for teaching students values and character both on and off the playing field. In athletics, she helped launch girls’ athletics programs at sev-eral schools, led her teams to many championships, and was the first woman in Kansas to serve as athletic director. She continues to teach history as an adjunct instructor at Newman.

Monsignor McGread, who was selected as a model of Catholic Identity, has been called the “Father of Catholic Stewardship in the United States” for his work developing

the stewardship concept. He served as pastor of St. Francis of Assisi parish for more than 31 years, and helped create the stewardship program for the Diocese of Wichita. He also played a key role in drafting the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ pastoral letter “Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response,” and is the subject of a book about his steward-ship message. Monsignor McGread served three terms on the Newman Board of Trustees, and has been a generous supporter of student scholarships, projects and programs at Newman Uni-versity. He is now Director Emeritus of Stewardship for the Diocese of Wichita.

Diane Leary, CSJ

Monsignor Thomas McGread

cour

tesy

pho

tos

Newman U.S. and Newman UK create international partnership Ra

ymon

d W

illia

ms

Students walk to class on the Newman University, Birmingham campus.

NewmanNews

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 3

Hele

n H.

Ric

hard

son,

The

Den

ver P

ost

Newman Colorado campus threatened in devastating firesThe fires that devastated homes in and around Colorado

Springs, Colo., this summer caused much heartache and displace-ment for residents. Those affected included the Newman University community in the area, when fires crept up to the Newman Colorado Springs campus doorstep.

On June 26, the fires that had raged just outside the city rushed over the final mountain ridge between Waldo Canyon and the building in Colorado Springs that houses the Newman Master of Social Work Distance Education program. The fire edged into the northwest part of town and burned 346 homes to the ground in minutes, fueled by winds exceeding 65 m.p.h.

Fortunately, none of the 65 Newman students, faculty, or staff were physically harmed by the fires, although Assistant Profes-sor of Social Work Terrie Cox-Pauly, LCSW and her family were forced to evacuate their home for a full week.

Still, the Newman community in Colorado Springs was willing and ready to take care of one another during the emergency, accord-ing to John Moragues, MSSW, assistant professor and coordinator of the Colorado Springs Distance Education MSW program.

“We sent out an e-mail request twice to all students and faculty, asking if they needed evacuation assistance, or if they could offer space or other evacuation assistance,” Moragues

said. “I received at least a dozen offers of assistance, from both students and faculty, and both for people and for pets, if needed. However, I did not receive any requests for assistance.”

Moragues also personally reached out to several students and alumni whose homes were in an evacuated area and therefore at risk. In each case the families had successfully evacuated, and none lost their homes.

Moragues said the Newman school building, which is located approximately four miles east of a mandatory evacuation zone, was filled with smoke on the evening of June 26. After consulting with Newman officials in Wichita, he cancelled classes for the remainder of that week.

The massive fire, which occurred in extreme hot and dry conditions in the area, burned more than 18,000 acres of forest and urban territory (29 square miles), and caused in excess of $350 million in damages. Two people died in the fire and more than 32,000 were forced to evacuate.

The fire was declared fully contained on July 10, but was not completely extinguished until sometime later. More than 1,200 firefighters from 34 states took part in the effort to contain fires in Colorado Springs and throughout the state.

NUAthletics

Newman University student-athletes are taking to the fields and courts wearing top-notch gear thanks to a five-year contract signed in June with athletic apparel company Adidas. Under the agreement, Adidas is provid-ing exclusive apparel and footwear, including practice and travel gear, to all 16 Newman athletic teams.

“This is a great branding move for us, and will give our student-athletes high-quality apparel and footwear to wear as they represent our university,” Newman Athletic Director Vic Trilli said.

The agreement marks the first time Newman teams have been outfitted exclusively by one brand. Newman is now the only athletic program in the Heartland Conference with this type of exclusive agreement with Adidas.

Adidas is part of the Adidas Group, a global corporation that includes brands such as Reebok, TaylorMade and Rockport. Adidas is the official uniform, footwear and apparel provider for more than 70 U.S. collegiate programs.

Newman Athletics signs five-year apparel contract with Adidas

Fugate Gymnasium inside O’Shaughnessy Hall is sporting a new look following a complete refurbishment of the floor. The court, which had not been refinished since the gymnasium was built in 1999, was sanded down and completely refinished in July. The finished product, shown here with Newman Athletic Director Vic Trilli, features the Newman University logo at center court, as well as Heartland Conference logos at each end.

Stev

e Ra

smus

sen

Dani

elle

Wal

lace


NUAthletics

Newman University women’s bowler Georgia Drewes overcame nervousness and the stress of competing on national television to win the National Women’s Singles Championship at the 2012 United States Bowling Congress Intercollegiate Singles Championships in Lincoln, Neb.

Drewes, who graduated this spring with a master of theo-logical studies degree, scored a 204-147 victory in the finals, which was televised on the CBS Sports Network May 4.

“I was more nervous when I was on the practice lanes, and I actually thought I would be sickly nervous when I got on the lanes, but it wasn’t too bad,” Drewes said. “My heart

was beating pretty fast, but I just kept to my routine.”

In recognition of her achieve-ment, Drewes received a special award by the Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission at its annual banquet in June.

The Laurie Bell Memorial 28th Annual Jet Open Charity Golf Tournament drew 188 golfers and scores of Jets fans – and raised approximately $80,000 in support of Newman University athletics. The event began with an Aug. 5 kick-off party with more than 300 people, and included fundraising auctions, awards, and a special presentation of a video featuring Newman men’s golfer Jeremy Gant (see story, page 6). Gant’s story elicited a powerful emotional response from viewers, who made gifts totaling $12,750 for athletics scholarships after seeing the video.

On Monday, Aug. 6, a total of 47 golf teams turned out for the morning and afternoon tournament sessions at Rolling Hills Country Club. This year’s winning team with a score of 51 was Via Christi Sports Medicine, consisting of players, l-r: Mike Sirianni, Cam Clark, Charlie Stevens and Nick Cusick.

Newman’s Georgia Drewes claims national bowling championshipco

urte

sy p

hoto

sco

urte

sy p

hoto

L-r: Head Bowling Coach Billy Murphy, Georgia Drewes, and Athletics Director Vic Trilli at the Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission banquet.

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 5

NUAthletics

When Newman University student golfer Jeremy Gant learned that he had a life-threatening condition that required a heart transplant, the Newman community showed its heart for Gant and his family with fundraisers, social events and plenty of emotional support.

Gant, an award-winning body builder and Dean’s List

student, learned in his sopho-more year that he had a faulty valve in his heart that could not be repaired. Gant, who was 19 at the time, was told by doctors that his heart was functioning at only 10 percent capacity; without a transplant he would likely die within a year.

While Gant and his family prepared for a possible transplant, the Newman

community and residents of his hometown of Chanute, Kan., went to work. Newman students launched a “Support Jeremy Gant” Facebook page and helped organize a golf tournament to solicit support and funds for Gant’s family, The Bank of Commerce in Chanute established a support account for the Gant family, The Chanute Tribune ran stories on Gant and helped gather funds, and several grass-roots groups organized social events and auctions and sold bracelets, T-shirts, and other items.

After only 28 days on a waiting list, a donor heart was found for Gant, and he under-went the surgery in October 2010. Gant has fully recovered from the surgery and is now a senior at Newman.

Gant was recently featured on the NCAA online program “On Campus,” which high-lights personal stories of student-athletes across the nation. The NCAA video chronicles Gant’s physical, emotional and spiritual journey through the process.

To view the story, which includes an introduction by Newman women’s golfer and sports communication major Kendall Anderson, visit www.newmanu.edu/jeremy.

Elmquist is named sports information director at NUJesika Elmquist assumed the duties of Newman University sports information director in early August 2012. Prior to her appointment at Newman, she worked two years in the Guest Services Department at INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita and at the Derby (Kan.) Recreation Commission. Elmquist also volunteered the past two summers for the Derby Twins base-ball team.

Elmquist graduated from Wichita State University in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in sport management. She was the 2010 Under-graduate Sport Man-agement Student of the Year at WSU.

Dani

ele

Wal

lace

Dani

ele

Wal

lace

Newman community shows it has plenty of ‘heart’ for student golfer Jeremy Gant


NUAthletics

SPRING 2012 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Chris Clawson Baseball 1982-1983

Catrina (Rogers) Wallace ’97 Women’s Volleyball 1994-1996

Dan Friend Men’s Volleyball Coach 2001-2004

2004 Men’s Volleyball Team Coach Dan Friend

Via Christi Health

2 p.m. – Recognition at halftime of men’s basketball game Fugate Gymnasium

5 p.m. – Cocktail Hour/Social Tarcisia Roths, ASC Alumni Lounge

6 p.m. – Banquet and Awards Ceremony Dugan-Gorges Conference Center

Banquet tickets $55 per person; $400 table of eight. Tickets will be available soon online or in the NU Athletics Office in January.

Join us as we celebrateThe Newman University Athletics Hall of FameClass of 2013

The Athletics Hall of Fame was created in 2007 to honor student-athletes, coaches, administrators, advocates and patrons who have made significant contributions to the university’s athletic programs. To submit a candidate for consideration, contact the Newman University Department of Athletics at 316-942-4291, ext. 2118.

Join us!

Student-athletes again earn top Heartland Conference GPA awards

For the fifth time in the past six years, Newman University athletics programs have claimed the highest average student-athlete GPA among all athletic programs in the NCAA Division II Heartland Conference.

Newman gained the top spot in the overall rankings for the 2011-2012 academic year with a combined GPA of 3.24. Newman also captured top academic honors among all Heartland men’s teams with an average GPA of 3.16. Newman also took the top spots for baseball with 3.29, women’s golf at 3.83, and men’s soccer at 3.13.

The Newman women narrowly missed gain-ing first place in the overall women’s teams category with a 3.31 average GPA.

Women’s GolfThe Women’s Golf Team

showed once again that they are a program to be reckoned with, finishing second at the Heartland Conference Golf Tournament. Junior Linzi Allan received All-Heartland Conference First Team ac-colades while qualifying for the NCAA Div. II West Regional. Junior Megan Birdsey and freshman Kendall Anderson

received All-Heartland Confer-ence Second Team honors.

Women’s TennisThe Newman Women’s Ten-

nis Team continued to prove itself a threat in the Heartland Conference, finishing the season at 13-9. Sophomore Kirstie Symon compiled a 20-7 record in singles play, while Hillary Hicks earned a 19-5 record.

BaseballThe Newman Baseball Team

finished its best season, securing a spot in the Heartland Conference Tournament for the first time ever. The Jets completed the season with a 28-23 overall record and 20-16 in Heartland Conference play. Seniors Tyler Hancock and David Longmore were named to the Heartland Conference All-Tournament Team.

Stev

e Ra

smus

sen

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 7

# | N E W M A N C H A L L E N G E8 | N E W M A N C H A L L E N G E

A LOOK AT NEWMAN STUDENTS TODAYconnected. diverse. ambitious. hopeful.

ith clockwork regularity, the news media reports on the troubled state of higher education, and the many challenges facing today’s college students.

Rising tuition costs. Crushing debt. Grim job prospects.

Today’s students live in an era where culture, technology, and the economy are defined by their uncertainty. Yet in spite of these problems and more, students come to colleges in greater numbers than ever before.

Who are the students who come to Newman University? How do the challenges of modern life affect them? Where do they come from, and what do they want?

The answers to these ques-tions are, of course, complex. Definitive conclusions are

impossible and even gener-alizations can be misleading. Still, a look at the lifestyles, values and aspirations of this ever-changing group offers some interesting and sometimes surprising insights into the nature of Newman students today.

Our students today come from a variety of religious backgrounds and belief systems, and yet many, if not most, are asking questions and seeking answers to deeper, spiritual realities, to understand the world around them and give meaning to their lives.

— Fr. Michael Linnebur, chaplain, director of campus ministry

By the numbersIn the fall 2012 semester, 3,108 unique individuals enrolled at Newman, a 2 percent increase over the previous year and the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking enrollments. The student body includes 1,396 undergraduate students, 724 graduate students, and 988 high school students taking Advanced Standing classes. Of the total, 1,571 attend classes on the Wichita campus.

The average ACT score for incoming, new freshman students was 25 – another all-time high.

A full 225 students began their educational journey somewhere else and came to Newman as transfers. Many of these students attended community colleges to com-plete their general education courses at a lower cost.

Overall, students come from 23 states, with 293 stu-dents from outside Kansas, and 32 countries. Women make up two-thirds of the student body. About 40 per-cent of students are Catholic. The overwhelming majority, 2,301, are white, while 305 are Hispanic, and 147 are black.

Such diversity has become the hallmark of many schools, but while many students come from afar, still more select Newman because they can stay close to home — In Wichita, three out of four Newman students commute to their classes.

AthleticsAthletic programs draw

many students to Newman each year, particularly since the university transitioned to NCAA Division II. Roughly 25 percent of traditional undergraduate students are involved in the 16 sports teams on campus. Soccer, bowling, baseball, basketball, cheer and cross-country have the most participants, with roughly 20 to 35 students on each team.

‘Traditional’ vs adult students

The stereotype of college students being young people fresh from high school holds true for undergraduate students on campus, whose average age is 19. The average age of all Newman students, however, is 25.

As more adults return to college to start or complete a degree, Newman has responded with more programs designed specifically to meet their needs. Newman now offers several programs online or with evening and weekend classes so that adults can earn a degree and still maintain a job and family life. The uni-versity also participates in the Yellow Ribbon program that offers veterans an opportunity to attend Newman at little or no cost.

The millennialsThe current generation of tra-

ditional students, the millennial

generation, is experiencing college – and life, in an unprec-edented way.

Students today are extremely tech-savvy and extremely con-nected, with the ability to stay in contact 24/7 with friends and family via social media. Most are in regular contact with their parents, and speak to them on the phone two or three times a week. Some make contact two or three times a day.

The millennials commu-nicate through e-mail and text messaging as much as in person, and prefer webinars and online technology to traditional lecture classes.

Students today have a much greater sense of civic duty than students did 10 years ago.

— Rosemary Niedens, associate vice president

of academic services and student development

Students at Newman continuously impress me with the diversity of their ideas, the dedication they possess in pursuit of those ideas . . . These young leaders know they are capable of achieving their goals.

— Lauren Susong, student activities coordinator

While it’s common to think of a university forming its students, it is also true that students have a large role in forming the university, and the millennial generation has clearly made an impact on Newman. Cell phones are as common in classrooms as books and pencils, and grades can be checked and tuition paid at any time online, all facilitated by free Wi-Fi on campus.

Newman also has a Facebook page and a Twitter feed, as well as a YouTube channel featuring everything from recruitment videos to short documenta-ries on students’ experiences abroad. Through these and other services, none of which are new, a level of access to the university that was unheard of less than a generation ago is taken as a given today.

Some say millennials are rule followers because of tighter parental and social control, while others say this generation has an overarching sense of entitlement and view rules as “something for other people.” Whatever their characteristics, pastimes and viewpoints, they are a force to be reckoned with: Within the next eight years, 46 percent of the U.S. workforce will be made up of millennials.

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 9

Dani

elle

Wal

lace

Our students strive to succeed at higher levels than so many students I’ve worked with in the past. They are strong in academics, perform unusually high number of service hours, and are involved in co-curricular activities, often while holding multiple jobs on and off campus. — Laura Nicholas,

dean of students

I find students today at Newman to be hopeful, excited, nervous, eager. . . They are also nervous about their career choices given our economic indicators. They are very busy with one, even two part-time jobs. Many of them are parents. — Cheryl Golden, Ph.D.,

professor of history

Popular majorsNewman has established its reputation as an excellent

school for science and pre-med, which is reflected in the popularity of those majors.

Of the six most popular majors among undergraduates on the Newman campus, four fall in the science, health care or pre-med category: nursing, biology, occupational therapy assistant, and radiological technology. Elementary edu-cation and business round out the top six.

Elementary education and business are also popular degrees for graduate students. Social work attracts many students as well. And though graduate programs in theology were only recently established, these programs, delivered almost completely online, are consistently in high demand.

Why do students come to Newman?Though much has changed, both in the world at large

and at Newman University in particular, some things have remained constant. Newman’s size and the ease with which students can develop relationships with faculty continue to draw students to the institution. The university’s reputation

for quality, and its dedication to service and the Church, are also cited by students as reasons they are attracted to Newman.

The world may change, and students may change with it. Yet it seems clear that students come, and will continue to come, to Newman University because

it remains, at heart, what it always has been – a Catholic university with a passionate faculty, serving the Church and the community, and dedicated to empowering graduates to transform society.


Newman University students have been studying and serving abroad in Guatemala for several years. This past school year, a course called The Newman Study Abroad

Film Project 2012 was designed to combine this experience with video production.

Andrew Robertson, a student in the class, said the course of-fered much more.

“I don’t think the class was put in place just to teach film or video editing,” Robertson said, “but to raise awareness of social issues around the world.”

Assistant Professor of Spanish Sonja Bontrager, who taught the class with adjunct instructor Kylie Brown, agreed.

“The course was intended to not only enhance students’ technical skills, but to broaden their worldviews,” Bontrager said. “We wanted students in the class to come away with a better understanding of people and cultures different from their own.”

For the class, Bontrager and Brown collected a sizeable amount of footage taken by a Newman student who had studied Spanish and taken part in service projects in Guatemala in

2011. Students in the film class were assigned to select footage and edit it into a five-minute documentary.

In addition to Robertson’s interest in filmmaking and edit-ing, he found the subject matter to be especially significant – In the 1970s, he lived in Guatemala as a child for three years.

“It was like going home,” he said of making the short film. “When I was there, Guatemala was in a civil war, and fear was rampant among the general population. These recordings were done in 2011, and it’s sad to see the people still living in fear 30 years after I left the country. It broke my heart.”

“Because we used footage recorded by a native speaker of Spanish, most students had to engage with images, situations and language outside of their experiences,” Bontrager added. “Andrew and a couple of other

students had the advantage of being able to understand the Guatemalan people, and this added a layer of depth to their final videos.”

To see the videos Robertson and others made for the class, visit http://challenge.newmanu.edu/robertson.

ANDREW ROBERTSONraising awareness

Andrew Robertson

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 11

Dani

elle

Wal

lace courtesy photos

A program that began as a class assignment at Newman University is now being tested by a unit of the U.S. Air Force, in an effort to help improve communications, boost morale – and even save lives.

The program was created by Air Force Staff Sergeant Theresa Maske, who came to Newman in fall 2010 to pur-sue an Interdisciplinary Stud-ies degree. Maske, who works

in a health service management unit, was asked to create a study about leadership as part of a cooperative education course. She decided to base it on her personal work experi-ence, and soon noted that communication between supervi-sors and their troops in her unit was lacking in key areas.

“A lot of the younger members weren’t getting what they needed to succeed,” Maske said. “Bad things were happening at that time. We had suicides and suicide attempts, people had health issues and stress. They didn’t know about programs that could help, because no one was talking to them. They didn’t

have someone from the higher ranks who would help them learn effective communication and give them guidance.”

Suicide in the military has become a national issue. The Air Force official web site reported 66 suicides between January and August 2012. Across all services, 140 took their own lives between January and June. Given those figures and low unit morale, Maske felt the need to act. After performing interviews, surveys and other research, she created a mentoring program that would pair lower ranking personnel and those new to the Air Force with volunteers from higher ranks who would act as confidantes, informal teachers, and role models.

To ensure good matches between mentors and their charges, Maske devised a screening process for volunteers that included two recommendations from senior officers, an essay by the candidate explaining his or her qualifications, and a personal interview. She also worked to pair individuals with common interests.

Maske took the idea to her commanding officers, who were impressed and agreed to launch a program using the 300 people in her unit. Depending on the results, the program could expand to other areas, and ultimately other military bases.

“When people feel like they’re cared for, they perform better,” Maske said. “The Air Force focuses on professional growth. This program focuses on personal growth.”

Yanley Rocha said she chose to come to Newman University because, “it is close enough to home, but you are still able to have the college experience.”

For Rocha, “home” is now Oklahoma City, where she, her parents and two younger brothers settled seven years ago after moving from Durango, Mexico.

Rocha is now a senior at Newman majoring in sociology and criminal justice, and mi-noring in pre-law.

“I chose criminal justice and pre-law thinking of pursuing a law career after college,” Rocha said. “I decided to major in sociology after taking Principles of Sociology with [Newman Professor of Sociology] Dr. Heck. I have developed a passion for both sciences.”

Double majoring while also studying pre-law obviously makes for a formidable schedule, but that’s what Rocha likes. On top of her regular studies, she is an ASC Community Scholar, and has been student president of the Newman Hispanic American Leadership Organization (HALO), and coordinator of the recycling team on campus. Off campus, she is involved in Sunflower Community Action, the Immigrant Family Support Network, and prefers to hold at least two part-time jobs.

Rocha’s biggest goal is, in her own words, “to help those in need and make this a better world,” a goal she works toward through 45 hours of volunteer work per semester. Rocha was recognized for her community service and other achievements in September 2011, when she received the Hispanic Rising Star Award from the Wichita Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Though a large part of her decision to attend Newman was because of its proximity to home, Rocha has found that the university can help her achieve her goals as well.

“Once I got here, I found that Newman has a great commit-ment to serving the community, and really empowers students.”

YANLEY ROCHA helping those in need

THERESA MASKE building morale

Rocha, with Professor of Sociology Larry Heck, Ph.D.


cour

tesy

pho

toDa

niel

le W

alla

ce

For the year ending Dec. 31, 2011, graduates of the Newman University nursing program had a pass rate of 96.36 percent – the highest pass rate from among all first-time registered nurse candidates educated in Kansas on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nurses.

The Newman student pass rate was more than 10 percentage points higher than the Kansas pass rate of 85.88 – an average of all nursing programs in the state – and almost 9 points higher than the national average pass rate of 87.89 percent.

Kansas institutions of higher education offer 34 nursing programs – 13 bachelor of science programs and 21 associate degree programs. The number of Newman nursing graduates who pass the NCLEX on their first attempt is consistently above state and national averages. In 2009, the NCLEX pass rate of Newman graduates was 98 percent. View all Kansas nursing programs pass rate results at www.ksbn.org/cne/multiyearpassrates.pdf Note: It may be necessary to refresh or reload the page.

NEWMAN NURSING STUDENTS record highest pass rate

NEWMAN ALUMS now in medical school in WichitaL-r: 2010 graduates Baalman; Le; Engels; Miller; Nguyen, Johnston (Not pictured: Jeff Cotter); 2012 graduates, front: Scheuffele; Gray; Nguyen; Ojile, Michler; back: Stewart; Stanley (2011); McCormick, Gillenwater.

Twelve of 16 Newman alumni accepted into medical schools over the past few years are now in Wichita, launching or continuing their studies at the University of Kansas School of Medicine.

All seven of the 2010 graduates accepted into KU Medical School began their studies at the school in Kansas City, Kan. Now in their third year of the program, all are currently studying at the school’s Wichita facility. The students – Joseph Baalman, Jeff Cotter, Amanda Engels, Isaac Johnston, Phong Le, Kyle Miller and Barbara

Nguyen – will continue their studies in Wichita through their fourth year.

Five of the nine Newman graduates accepted into medical schools this past spring have begun their stud-ies at the Wichita location. They are 2012 graduates Cole Gillenwater, Jesse Gray, Caleb McCormick and Nicholas Ojile, and 2011 grad Christopher Stanley. Other 2012 graduates Anna Scheuffele and Cooper Stewart are at the school’s Kansas City location, while T.V. Nguyen has entered the Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in

Parker, Colo., and Chad Michler is in the biomedical sciences program at the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, Kansas City, Mo.

As part of their studies, Gillenwater, Gray, McCormick and Ojile will take a biology class in spring 2013 from Newman Associate Professor of Biology Susan Orsbon. Orsbon and Assistant Professor of Biology Michael Bradley, Ph.D. are providing biology courses to KU students as part of an agreement with the KU Medical School in Wichita. KU previously required

medical students to take the first two years of their program in Kansas City; students now can begin their studies in Wichita. For more information, see the story on page 10 of the Fall 2011 issue of Challenge magazine, or online at http://challenge.newmanu.edu.

Newman has a long-standing tradition of excellence in its pre-medical program. Over the past 10 years, more than 96 percent of qualified Newman pre-med students who applied have been accepted into medical schools.

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 13

Dani

elle

Wal

lace

Stev

e Ra

smus

sen

Newman University students James and Laura Bell have much in common: A love for each other and their family, a strong religious faith, a solid work ethic — and childhoods marked by domestic disputes, poverty, drug and alcohol abuse, and broken homes.

James, a biochemistry major, is 41. Growing up, his family moved often, which meant he was always in a different school. Police often came to his home to break up fights between his parents, who ultimately divorced. His father then married a woman who was cruel to James, his brother (who spent seven years in prison), and his sister (who is now homeless and a meth addict).

Laura, a nursing major, is 37. Her father sold drugs, and her mother worked long hours, leaving Laura to raise her younger brother. Her parents also divorced. Laura said of her childhood that she “hated myself, hated oth-ers, and hated life.”

James and Laura became high school sweethearts at Wichita High School South, and married in 1991. They have four children. Schyler, 20, began his studies in pre-med at Newman this fall.

In the early years of his marriage, James worked in sales, a calling he didn’t like, but which provided much-needed in-come. His career dream was medicine, but pursuing that goal would have meant immediate financial hardship, so he postponed it until last year when he enrolled at Newman.

Like many non-traditional students, life for the two is a chaotic balancing act of school, work and family. James is a paramedic

for Sedgwick County, pulling 12-hour overnight shifts. He also carries 12 hours of classes. James is aiming for a summer 2014 graduation. He then plans to enter The University of Kansas Medical School, and become an emergency room doctor.

“Ever since I was 18, I dreamed of practicing medicine,” he said. “For me, it’s the pinnacle of achieving something.”

Laura, who entered the traditional nursing program this semester, wants to work with women through delivery and newborn care, and ultimately earn a master’s degree. Laura

doesn’t work outside the home, but is plenty busy, as she has home-schooled the couple’s four children the past 14 years. With all six members of the family now full-time students, Laura has to use an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of everyone.

James and Laura said they overcame their childhood struggles through their deep faith in Christ. Given their troubled upbringings, it’s little surprise that the Bells

want to make life better for themselves. They also want to make it better for others, which is why they have chosen the medical field. As Laura explained, she wants to take the hurt and abuse from her past, learn from it, and make it the “fuel” for treating others with dignity and compassion.

“It’s my way of making sense of the pain,” she said, “and turning something negative into a positive.”

JAMES & LAURA BELLnon-traditional students working hard to achieve their dreams

Mariah, Micah, Haley, and Schyler Bell

1 4 | N E W M A N C H A L L E N G E

cour

tesy

pho

tos

Newman University alumnus and longtime supporter J.V. Johnston will receive the Cardinal Newman Medal in 2013 for his distinguished service to the university.

Johnston graduated from Kansas Newman College in

1982 with a degree in business administration. In 1997, he and his wife Veronica (Arm-endariz), who is also a 1982 Newman graduate, received the St. Maria De Mattias Alumni Award.

Johnston served four terms on the Newman Board of Trustees from 1999 to 2011, including a term as Chairman from 2007 to 2011. Among his many accomplishments as Chairman, Johnston played a key role in completing Founders Plaza on the Newman campus. He also championed the Newman Strategic Plan

2009-2014 and the May 2010 Campus Master Plan, and guided successful efforts to in-crease enrollment and balance the budget.

Johnston and his family have also supported the uni-versity through generous gifts to capital campaigns, athletics, and student scholarships.

J.V. and Veronica Johnston have four sons: Benjamin, a 2006 Newman graduate; Jacob (Jake), a 2008 Newman gradu-ate; Issac, a 2010 Newman graduate, and Jordan.

Cardinal Newman Week activities set for Feb. 17 – 23, 2013

Mark your calendar now and make plans to join us as the Newman community celebrates the life and works of Blessed John Henry Newman, Feb. 17-23, 2013. This year’s events feature the traditional High Tea, a world-renowned Cardinal Newman scholar, and the awarding of the Cardinal Newman Medal and alumni awards. See the schedule of events for more details.

Longtime NU supporter J.V. Johnston named Cardinal Newman Medal recipient for 2013

Leading authority Fr. Ian Ker to deliver Cardinal Newman Lecture

The Gerber Institute for Catholic Studies will host Father Ian Ker as the featured speaker for the 2013 Cardinal Newman Lecture.

Ker, a theology professor at Oxford University, is considered the leading international authority on the life and thought of Blessed John Henry Newman. Ker is the author and editor of more than 20 books on Newman, including the Oxford critical edition of The Idea of a University and the definitive work, John Henry Newman: A Biography. He is also the author of The Catholic Revival In English Literature,1845-1961, Mere Catholicism, and other highly acclaimed and influential works.

Sunday, Feb. 177 p.m. Mass, St. John’s Chapel, reception to follow

TueSday, Feb. 197 p.m. Cardinal Newman Lecture – Father Ian Ker Performance Hall, De Mattias Fine Arts Center

WedneSday, Feb. 202 - 4 p.m. High Tea, Gorges Atrium5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Evening High Tea, Eck Hall

ThurSday, Feb. 2111 a.m. Cardinal Newman Mass, St. John’s Chapel7 p.m. Newman Board of Trustees dinner with Cardinal Newman Scholars

SaTurday, Feb. 235 p.m. Sunday Vigil Mass, St. John’s Chapel6 p.m. Cardinal Newman Banquet and Alumni Awards Ceremony, Dugan-Gorges Conference Center

Watch your mailbox or check www.newmanu.edu frequently for more information and to reserve tickets for the Cardinal Newman Banquet and Awards Ceremony.

Cardinal Newman Week 2013

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 1 5

Mid

west

Pho

togr

aphy

Net

work

cour

tesy

pho

to

NUPerspectives

In October 1992, in and around the small town of Gardnersville, Liberia, five sisters of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ were killed during a civil war that raged

in the West African nation.The women – Mary Joel

Kolmer, ASC, Shirley Kolmer, ASC, Kathleen McGuire, ASC, Agnes Muel-ler, ASC and Barbara Ann Muttra, ASC – had been in Liberia for many years working to help the poor, illiterate and powerless

women of Gardnersville. The sisters’ ministry included medical clinics, education, and countless acts of kindness.

On Oct. 20, Sisters Barbara Ann and Mary Joel were

killed in an ambush as they drove one of their workers from Gardnersville to a nearby town. Three days later, soldiers of the National Patriotic Front of Liberia shot Sister Kathleen as she approached the gate of the convent compound, then separated Sisters Agnes and

Shirley from a group standing in front of the convent, and shot them in cold blood.

Although the war had been moving closer to the convent for weeks and many had fled the area, the sisters chose to stay and continue their work, honoring the covenant they had estab-lished with the people of Liberia. They were, as Sister M. Clare Boehmer, ASC wrote in her book Echoes In Our Hearts, “. . . heroic both in their dedication and their commonplaceness. Through pondering their lives and work, we Christians can rediscover the fact that it is precisely in going about our ordinary business with an extraordinary spirit that we become saints.”✳

For their sacrifice and faithfulness to God’s call to serve, today they are revered by the ASC as the five Martyrs of Charity.

✳Echoes In Our Hearts was first pub-lished in 1994 and is scheduled for re-issue in early 2013 with updated information and other new material. For more information on the Martyrs of Charity, visit www.adorers.org.

Mary Joel Kolmer, ASC

Shirley Kolmer, ASC

Kathleen McGuire, ASC

Agnes Mueller, ASC

Barbara Ann Muttra, ASC

Remembering the ASC Martyrs of Charity

The ASC Martyrs Memorial at the ASC Center in Ruma, Ill., commemorates the lives and service of the five sisters killed in October 1992 in Liberia, West Africa.


cour

tesy

pho

tos

NUPerspectives

The brutal murders of the five Adorers of the Blood of Christ in Liberia, West Africa in 1992 is a painful yet inspira-tional memory for all Adorers, and for all others whose lives were touched by the martyrs and the events surrounding their deaths.

In observance of the 20th anniversary of the martyrs deaths, Newman University is presenting a series of Mission Talks throughout the 2012-2013 academic year that focus on different aspects of the sisters and their tragic end.

“I think it’s important to tell the special story of the martyrs,” said Newman Director of Mission Effectiveness

Charlotte Rohrbach, ASC, who has presented Mission Talks over the past few years that explore various facets of Newman University and its mission. “Many people know that it happened, but they don’t know the details of the story. With the 20th anniversary coming up, I thought this

would be a wonderful oppor-tunity to do it.”

Rohrbach contacted several Adorers who were associated with the sisters and the events of 1992, and asked each to prepare a presentation based on their unique perspective or connection. To make the talks available to more people, each

of the four presentations are offered on an evening as well as during the day.

“This is an interesting topic, not just to people associated with Newman and the ASC, but also to the general public,” she said. “I think they’ll find the talks fascinating and challenging.”

The Adorers of the Blood of Christ, U.S. Region, commemorated the 20th anniversary of the deaths of the five Martyrs of Charity in October with a variety of events at the ASC Centers in Columbia, Pa., Ruma, Ill., and Wichita, Kan.

ASC Columbia Center Saturday, Oct. 20 Events at the Columbia Center took place at St. Anne’s Retirement Com-munity, on the same grounds as the Center, 3954 Columbus Ave. Scheduled activities included:• A meal at the Retirement Community• A panel discussion featuring:

- Martha Wachtel, ASC - Former missionary in Liberia

- Sister Claire Chabot - Bernardine Franciscan Sisters community

- Theresa Hicks - Volunteer coordinator for the Society of African Missions

ASC Ruma Center Sunday, Oct. 21 Events at the Ruma Center included family members of the martyrs, Liberian women who lived with the martyrs in Liberia, other Liberians connected with the Adorers, area religious congregations and clergy, people who assisted the Adorers at the time of the killings, and others. The Ruma Center was decorated with an African theme.

Scheduled activities included:• Mass, with reflections by Barbara

Jean Franklin, ASC• A presentation by U.S. Regional

Leader Barbara Hudock, ASC, Raphael Ann Drone, ASC, and Ramona Virgil. The mistress of ceremonies was Elizabeth Kolmer, ASC, sister of Shirley Kolmer, ASC and first cousin of Mary Joel Kolmer, ASC.

• A PowerPoint presentation, and a display of books related to Liberia, the deaths of the five martyrs, and personal stories of people who knew them.

• A cemetery procession, where Adorers and guests processed as one family to the gravesites of the martyrs’ remains. White roses were placed on the martyrs’ graves, and prayers were offered for forgiveness, reconciliation and peace in Liberia and throughout the world.

ASC Wichita Center Sunday, Oct. 21 The theme of the celebration at the Wichita Center was “The raising of consciousness concerning the plight of the Liberian people.” A special display featured a photo of the five martyrs and various articles, including a fish net, soil, a cross, stamps and coins.

Scheduled activities included:• Mass with special Mission Sunday

Liturgy. Wichita Center Chaplain Father Thomas Welk celebrated Mass and gave the homily.

• A prayer service in the Center’s Assembly Hall.

• A presentation immediately following on the martyrs and Liberia, by Janet Sue Smith, ASC, a former missionary in Liberia and now the center’s director of com-munity life and mission.

• A reception in the ASC dining room following the presentation.

Newman University ‘Mission Talks’ offer unique perspectives on martyrs

MISSION TALKS• Dedicated to the 20th Anniversary

of the Liberian Martyrs• Free and open to the public • All noon presentations are in the

Tarcisia Roths, ASC Alumni Center, Dugan Library and Campus Center

• Lunch provided for 40 guests during noon presentations by RSVP only: 316-942-4291, ext. 2167.

• All evening presentations are in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center, Dugan Library and Campus Center

Oct. 9, 2012, Noon Oct. 10, 2012, 7 p.m. Retelling the Story of the Five Martyrs Twenty Years Later Mildred Gross, ASC - Provincial at the time of the five sisters’ martyrdom.

Nov. 13, 2012, Noon Nov. 14, 2012, 7 p.m. Go Tell It on the Mountain: From Tragedy to CelebrationFran Schumer, ASC – Adorers communications director in 1992.

Feb. 5, 2013, Noon Feb. 6, 2013, 7 p.m. The Missionary Life of the 5 Martyrs: How Extraordinary Was Their Work? Elizabeth Kolmer, ASC - Sister and cousin of two of the martyrs.

April 9, 2013, Noon April 10, 2013, 7 p.m. Serving in the Liberian Mission, Then and Now Raphael Ann Drone, ASC - Liberian missionary 1971-1988, and 2010-2012.

Adorers across U.S. Region commemorate deaths of Five Martyrs of Charity

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 1 7

NUPerspectives

Each year, Newman faculty members publish and present a variety of literary and scholarly works. Here is a sample of recent activity and other achievements.

For a complete listing, visit http://challenge.newmanu.edu/fall12-facultypub.

Bernadette Fetterolf, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Nursing and Allied Health:“Pediatric Decompensation: Stabilization and Management,” presentation at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita, Kan., Jan. 12, 2012.

Sue Ellen Gardner, Ph.D., LMSW, Associate Professor of Social Work:“Social Work, Evidence-Based Practice, and Older Adults,” presentation at the Southwestern Social Sciences Asso-ciation annual conference, San Diego, Calif., April 7, 2012.

Program Chair, Southwestern Social Work Affiliate of Southwestern Social Sciences Association. 2012–2013.

Gloria Hegge, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Social Work:Defended doctoral dissertation “The Subjective Experience of Women in Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder,” October 2011; awarded doc-toral degree in Social Welfare from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, January 2012.

Don Hufford, Ph.D., Professor of Education:“The Novels of W.E.B. Du Bois as Bildungsroman,” presentation at the Newman University Literature Festi-val, March 30, 2012.

“Biographical Research: A Search for Truth, Goodness, and Beauty,” pre-sentation at the International Society for Educational Biography, St. Louis, Mo., April 29, 2012.

Gina Marx, Ed.D., Assistant Pro-fessor of Graduate Education:Common Core Trainer for English Lan-guage Arts, Kansas Department of Educa-tion, Wichita, Kan., Jan. 30-Feb. 1, 2012.

“Student and Instructor Perceptions of Care in Online Graduate Education,” presentation at the Global TIME Online Conference on Technology, Innovation, Media & Education, presented online, Feb. 7-9, 2012.

Marguerite Regan, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of English:“How to Write Your Spiritual Memoir,” presentation to the Masonic Keystone High Twelve Club, Kansas Masonic Home, Wichita, Kan., Aug. 13, 2012.

“The Mindful Meeting: Shifting the Para-digm for Faculty Meetings,” presentation at the Summer 2012 Conference of the Assembly for Expanded Perspectives on Learning, Estes Park, Colo., June 29, 2012.

Ron Shipley, M.S.Ed. RTR, Assistant Professor of Radiologic Technology, and Blake Goddard, Mark Johnson, Duane Lanterman, Lee Walker and Bob Wingate:Co-authored “NARCON 2012,” Sport Rocketry, the Journal of the National As-sociation of Rocketry (NAR), July/August 2012. Shipley reported on three-time space shuttle astronaut Col. Sam Gemar, keynote speaker of NARCON 2012, the NAR annual convention, held in 2012 at the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, Hutchinson, Kan.

Surendra Singh, Ph.D., Professor of Biology:“Governments and Philanthropies Promoting Education of American Youths,” Journal of Higher Education, Vol. 50, No. 02, the Association of Indian Universities, Jan. 15, 2012.

Amy Siple, MSN, FNP-BC, Associate Professor of Nursing:“Unraveling the complexities of Parkinson’s Disease,” presentation at Lakewood Heights, Wichita, Kan., Jan. 10, 2012.

“The Mechanism and Management of Alzheimer’s Disease,” presentation at Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, Wichita, Kan., Jan. 25, 2012.

“Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease,” presentation at Larksfield Place, Wichita, Kan., Feb. 7, 2012.

Joan Purkey, M.Ed., Associate Professor of Education; Barbara Sponsel, Ph.D., Associate Profes-sor of Mathematics; Lori Steiner, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Mathematics, and Connie Watson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Education:Received Title IIB Mathematics and Science Partnership Program Grant from the Kansas State Department of Educa-tion for “Using Mathematical Practices to Understand Content,” program to serve educators from the Wichita Public Schools, Diocese of Wichita Catholic Schools, and Haysville Public Schools during the transition to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics.

Lori Steiner, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Mathematics:“Effective Mathematics Tutoring Strategies” chapter in Handbook for Training Peer Tutors and Mentors. Karen Agee and Russ Hodges, eds., Mason, Ohio: College Reading and Learning Association, 2012.

Barbara Sponsel

Faculty activity and achievements

The following faculty members were recently promoted and/or granted tenure:Bernadette Fetterolf, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Nursing. Granted tenure and promoted to Full Professor.

Jill Fort, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice. Granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor.

Fr. Joseph Gile, S.T.D., Assistant Professor of Theology. Granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor.

Barry Koch, Ph.D., LCSW, Assistant Professor of Social Work. Granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor.

John Leyba, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Chemistry and Physics. Promoted to Full Professor.

Marguerite Regan, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of English. Granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor.

Karen Rogers, Ed.D., Associate Professor of Education. Promoted to Full Professor.

Barbara Sponsel, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Mathematics. Granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor.

Debbie Strickert, MN, ARNP-CNS, Associate Professor of Nursing. Granted tenure.


file

phot

o

file

phot

o

file

phot

o

NUPerspectives

Newman University Director of the School of Nursing and Allied Health Bernadette Fetterolf, Ph.D. and Nurse Anesthesia Program Director Sharon Niemann, CRNA, MHS were among 27 Wichita-area administrators, practitio-ners, educators and volunteers selected as Health Care Heroes for 2012 by the Wichita Business Journal.

Health Care Heroes honors companies, individuals and organizations for their contributions to improving health care

in Wichita and the surrounding area. Fetterolf and Niemann were two of only four individuals selected in the Health Care Educators category. In addition, Newman was one of only two higher education institutions represented in the entire group (the other was the KU School of Medicine-Wichita).

Sharon Niemann, left, and Bernadette Fetterolf

Newman University is developing new relationships in the community through a program that offers knowledge to various organizations at no charge.

The new program, called the Speakers Bureau, features members of the university’s faculty and staff who volunteer to provide lectures or presenta-tions on topics related to their respective areas of expertise. The talks are offered free to organizations and groups throughout the Wichita area.

“This is a great opportunity for Newman University faculty and staff to educate and spread awareness to the community about topics that affect our everyday life,” said Newman Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael Austin, Ph.D.

The program was launched in November 2011. To date, 24 Newman faculty and staff

members have volunteered to provide presentations on topics that include business, careers, health, history, literature, marriage and family, personal

development, and others.The Speakers Bureau has

been well received in the com-munity since its inception, with many groups in Wichita requesting presentations on a variety of topics. Among the

first organizations to request speakers was the Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland.

Several Newman employ-ees joined together to offer

a five-session series to the Nonprofit Chamber of Service in Wichita on “Enhancing Nonprofit Executive Leaders.” Each member of the group created a presentation that covered topics such as

“Servant Leadership and Personal Mission,” “Coach Leadership: Making ‘Difficult Conversations’ Doable,” and “Meeting, Madness and Mayhem.” The program began in August and will run through December.

“The leadership series hosted by Newman University for the nonprofit community is a terrific example of how two groups can benefit each other,” said Nonprofit Chamber Executive Director Perry Schuckman. “We are proud to highlight our relationship with Newman, and the speakers have been outstanding.”

For more information on the Speakers Bureau, call 316-942-4291, ext. 2164, or e-mail [email protected]. To reserve a speaker, visit the Newman Speakers Bureau Web site at www.newmanu.edu/speakers-bureau.

Newman Professor of Communication Audrey Hane, Ph.D. presents the first of a five-part series of programs to the Nonprofit Chamber of Service in Wichita.

Speakers Bureau brings faculty, staff expertise to community

Fetterolf and Neimann named Wichita ‘Health Care Heroes’

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 19

Anth

ony

D’Al

essi

o

Anth

ony

D’Al

essi

o

commercebank.com / 261.4700© 2012 COMMERCE BANCSHARES, INC.

Find theUNEXPECTED

…by expecting more from your bank.

If you’re looking for the local decision-making of a community bank but need the depth of resources offered by a larger bank, you’ll find both at Commerce Bank.

If you’re looking for the unexpected, look no further, and expect no less.

Proud to support Newman University.

J13417 Newman magazine ad.indd 1 5/30/2012 2:51:39 PM

Wichita native Troy Horine was named Vice President for University Advancement at Newman University, effective July 16, 2012.

Horine oversees Newman’s Advancement Department, which includes Fundraising/Development, Alumni Relations, University Relations, and Mission and Archives.

“We are thrilled to welcome Troy to Newman,” said Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. “He has a real track record of success, and truly glowing references from previous employers and staff.”

“I was educated by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ sisters at both St. Francis of Assisi grade school and at Bishop Carroll High School, and I am delighted to return to Wichita to help them advance their mission of education, justice and service,” Horine said.

One of Horine’s earliest jobs, from 1982 to 1986, was Director of Development at then-Kansas Newman College, where he helped conduct the institution’s first capital campaign.

Horine’s most recent position was Director of Major and Leadership Gifts at the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine. From 2006 to 2008, he served as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Major Gifts at Washington University in Saint Louis, and

prior to that was Assistant Vice President for Develop-ment – Health Sciences Center, at Saint Louis University.

Between 1986 and 2004, Horine worked in several positions of increasing responsibility at Creighton University in Omaha, Neb., including Director of Annual Giving, Director of Major Gifts, Director of Development, and Assistant Vice President for University Relations.

Horine earned a bachelor’s degree in business administra-tion and a bachelor’s degree in education, both in 1980 from Kansas State University. He also earned a master of business administration degree from Creighton in 1990.

Read more about Horine at http://challenge.newmanu.edu/horine.

Newman names Troy Horine Vice President, University Advancement

Troy Horine

Dani

elle

Wal

lace

NUGiving


University Advancement De-partment members Coryanne Graham and Anne Chandler focus their efforts on attaining gifts to help support students, faculty, staff and programs at Newman University.

Graham serves as Major Gifts Officer. In this capacity she works directly with individual donors to support student scholarships, the Newman Fund, the university endowment and other projects. Graham previously served as TOGETHER Vision Communications Coordinator for the Catholic Diocese of Wichita and as art director and graphic designer at the Wichita Eagle. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Kansas.

To contact Graham call 316-942-4291, ext. 2174, or e-mail [email protected].

Chandler serves as Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations. In this role she works to secure funding for equipment, programs, events and other Newman initiatives, by preparing grants, proposals and other gift requests to companies, foundations and other charitable organizations. Chandler previously served as regional development director for the ALS Association, and as a grant writer, project director and ultimately executive director of the Wichita Area Technical College Foundation. She earned a bachelor of business administration degree from Wichita State University.

To contact Chandler call 316-942-4291, ext. 2225, or e-mail [email protected].

Advancement Department’s Graham, Chandler seek funding for university

Newman University has received several gifts and grants over the past year to support various programs and student scholarships.

• The Kansas State Department of Education awarded Newman a $110,000 Kansas Mathematics and Science Partnerships Pro-gram Grant. The grant supports a program to help math teach-ers in the Wichita and Haysville

public school systems and in the Diocese of Wichita Catholic schools strengthen their knowl-edge and teaching skills in regards to new math standards. If proven effective, the grant could be re-newed for two additional years.

• Anonymous donors made a gift of $75,000 to create The Fr. Emil Kapaun Annual Scholarship for students involved in Campus Ministry at Newman University.

• The Children’s Miracle Network awarded the Newman School of Nursing and Allied Health a highly competitive $30,000 grant to purchase simulation equip-ment, including lifelike manikins that mimic realistic situations in the healthcare environment.

• The Fred and Mary Koch Foundation awarded $10,000 to Professor of Biology Surendra Singh, Ph.D. to help fund the 2012

Investigative Summer Science Program. Singh established the program 23 years ago to give high school students a taste of college-level research and to explore the benefits of careers in the sciences.

Recent gifts to Newman help education programs, student scholarships

Coryanne Graham, left, and Anne Chandler

Dani

elle

Wal

lace

NUGiving

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 21

An anonymous donor has made a gift of $25,000 to establish a scholarship in honor of one of the pioneers of science education at Newman University – Margaret Knoeber, ASC.

According to the donor, the Sister Margaret Knoeber, ASC Endowed Scholarship was created out of great respect for Knoeber, and to recognize the high level of energy and enthu-siasm she brought to her work at Newman and other organi-zations. While complete guide-lines are still being established, the scholarship is designed for full-time students with demonstrated financial need. For the immediate future, the scholarship will be awarded to one student per year, at a dollar amount yet to be determined. The first award is expected to be made next fall for the 2013-14 academic year.

“This is a beautiful tribute to a truly beloved member of the Newman community,” said Newman Major Gifts Officer Coryanne Graham, who is working with the donor to establish scholarship guidelines. “Sister Margaret has made so many important contributions to the develop-ment of this institution. This scholarship is a fitting honor to her and everything she has accomplished.”

“I’m very pleased to know that someone is providing funds for this scholarship, and very appreciative,” Knoeber said. “This will help

create opportunities for many Newman students in the years to come.”

In setting up the scholarship, the donor noted Knoeber’s love of life, happiness with her religious life, and com-mitment to students. The donor also pointed to Knoeber’s ability to inspire students and help them realize their full potential.

Knoeber has a long and celebrated association with Newman. She attended

Sacred Heart Academy, graduating in 1949, and became a professed member of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, taking her first vows in 1950 and her final vows in 1955. For nine years she worked as an elementary school and music teacher in rural parochial schools, and took classes in the summers in education and science. She received a bachelor’s degree in natural sciences from Sacred Heart College in 1961.

Knoeber discovered she had a knack for chemistry, and earned a doctorate in organic chemistry at the University of Notre Dame in 1967. She then returned to Kansas and over the following 11 years in effect created the Chemistry Department at Sacred Heart, working as instructor and associate professor of chemistry.

Knoeber also served as alumni director from 1983 to 1990, and later helped pioneer interactive television technol-ogy in western Kansas while working with Newman to launch a pastoral ministry program for rural communi-ties in the Diocese of Dodge City. She also served a term as provincial counselor for the ASC, was community archivist at the ASC Wichita Center, and was a member of the Newman Alumni Board of Directors. She continues her connection to Newman today as an active alumna, maintaining many relationships with her former students and alumni.

Additional contributions to the Sister Margaret Knoeber, ASC Endowed Scholarship can be made in any amount from any donor. For more information or to make a gift, contact Coryanne Graham at 316-942-4291, ext. 2174 or [email protected], or visit www.newmanu.edu/give.

Anonymous donor establishes Margaret Knoeber Scholarship

NUGiving


cour

tesy

pho

to

Anonymous donor establishes Margaret Knoeber Scholarship

For anyone looking to truly make a difference in the lives of Newman University stu-dents, there is a simple and effective way to help now and for years to come – the Newman Fund.

The Newman Fund helps support the heart of the Newman University experience and is a vitally important source of funding for the university’s ongoing needs. One of the main goals of the fund is to provide scholar-ships and financial aid so that all deserving students have

the opportunity to attend Newman University.

In that respect, gifts to the Newman Fund are more than donations; they are invest-ments in today’s students – and tomorrow’s leaders.

This year’s goal for the Newman Fund is $525,000, and Newman officials are now actively seeking support.

They note, however, that it is not merely the amount individuals give, but their involvement that counts.

“Whether you can give $10, $100, $1,000 or more, partici-pation is the key in helping us provide necessary services and support to Newman students,” said Director of Annual Fund Chelsea Whipple. “Contribu-tors to the Newman Fund help maintain the day-to-day excel-lence of the university – and make a difference in every aspect of our students’ lives.”

Look for these upcoming events to help support the Newman Fund:

Fall Phonathon: Now through Nov. 16

Holiday Appeal: November

Holiday E-mails: December

Spring Phonathon: Feb. 1- March 1, 2013

Spring Appeal: May 2013

Spring E-mail: June 2013

‘Supporting Student Success’

Gifts to the Newman Fund can truly make a difference

To make a gift or for more information, contact Chelsea Whipple at 316-942-4291, ext. 2445 or e-mail [email protected].

‘participation is the key’

NUGiving

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 23

It was beer, braten and Black Forest cake for the 500 people who gathered on Founders Plaza Sept. 22 for Newman University’s annual fundrais-ing bash – “Party on the Plaza – Oktoberfest.”

The event, which is the university’s largest single fun-draiser of the year, raised more than $100,000 to help support student scholarships. This year’s party again featured a Bavarian theme complete with authentic German food, drink and music. Following a 4:30 p.m. Mass at St. John’s Chapel, the event kicked off with a ceremonial “tapping of the keg” and the opening of a silent auction fea-turing scores of donated items.

The event also featured a German dinner of sauerbraten (marinated beef), Cornish game hen and several side dishes, and a choice of Black Forest cake or apple strudel. The night was capped by a live auction featur-ing such items as a big-screen TV, Carrie Underwood concert tickets, and authentic, home-style Italian dinners prepared by Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D.

“We were very happy with the turnout, and the enthusi-astic response to the auctions,” Carrocci said. “It was a great event that just gets better every year. I thank everyone – our sponsors, guests, students and Newman faculty and staff – for making it all possible.”

See video of the event at http://challenge.newmanu.edu/pop2012.

‘Party on the Plaza – Oktoberfest’ draws 500 in support of Newman University

NUGiving


Dani

elle

Wal

lace

Proudly Supports

316.260.3711 www.legacy-bank.com

Party on the Plaza

Fund your future.PERSONAL BANKING RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES BUSINESS BANKING

Proud Supporter of

Proud Supporter OfNewman University’s

Party on the Plaza – Oktoberfest 2012J.T. Klaus (’87)

TWG is a results-driven, innovative law firm offering a wide variety of legal services to businessand individuals. Our attorneys litigate commercial,business, probate, trust, consumer, adoption and taxdisputes and advise in matters relating to business,real estate taxation, estate planning and municipalfinance, including service as Bond Counsel toCatholic and other not-for-profit, mission-driven institutions throughout the State of Kansas.

2959 N. Rock Road, Suite 300 • Wichita, KS 67226 Phone: (316) 630.8100 • Fax: (316) 630.8101

www.twgfirm.com

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 25

AlumniNews


Niki Manbeck ‘09Luke Knoblauch ‘06

Jesse Gray ‘12 Ryan Huschka ‘07

Larry Crow Jr. ‘06 Patrick Edwards ‘07

Logan Winter ‘13Leona O’Reilly ‘64

Dear Fellow Newman Alumni,

I am honored and privileged to serve as your Newman University Alumni Association president for 2012-2013. I offer a special welcome to members of the Class of 2012, and to students entering Newman for their first year. I look forward to working with board members and the director of Alumni Relations to help Newman further its mission of empowering graduates to transform society.

Please join me in welcoming our newest Alumni Association board members: Larry Crow Jr. ’06; Patrick Edwards ’07; Jesse Gray ’12 (Young Alumni Representative); Ryan Huschka ’07 (Faculty Representative); Luke Knoblauch ’06; Niki (Lee) Manbeck ’09; Leona (Darveau) O’Reilly ’64, and Logan Winter ’13 (Student Representative). Also, now serving on the Executive Committee are Tad Druart ’87 as vice president, and Mike Ludlow ’08 as secretary.

We are proud of our alma mater and through our involvement, we hope to attract more alumni volunteers and professionals to return to campus and help us build stronger, deeper, more meaningful relationships with a wider base of our alumni.

Please be our guests and join us at one of the many outstanding events held on campus each year: The Party on the Plaza-Oktoberfest in September, The Fall Sports Reunion in October, The Athletics Hall of Fame and the Cardinal Newman Banquets in February, and The Last Call Party for seniors in May. We also invite you to cheer on our Jet student-athletes as they compete in a multitude of sports.

The association embraces your continued support, your selfless commitment to volunteerism, your enthusiastic participation and your generous financial commitment to make a difference. I encourage each of you to stay connected and give back to the institution that has provided us with so many life and career options. You are the stakeholders of this fine university.

It is indeed my pleasure to serve as your president. The coming year promises to be an exciting time, with many outstanding activities and events.

I hope to see you around campus and in the community at large.

Go Jets!

Tony Tamburro ’03, ’07

Welcome alumni and board members

Tony Tamburro ’03, ’07President, Newman University

Alumni Association

cour

tesy

pho

tos

GP P

hoto

grap

hy

AlumniNews

Welcome alumni and board members

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 27

The effort to re-establish the theatre program at Newman University took a big step forward recently when the Sacred Heart Academy and Sacred Heart College cam-paigns met their goals.

To help raise $100,000 per year for three years needed to launch the program, the Sacred Heart campaigns were created to raise $60,000 while honoring three women who were instrumental to the program’s success in years past – speech teacher Ambrosine Comerford, ASC and music teacher Salome Herman, ASC at Sacred Heart Academy, and drama teacher Lillian (Sister Theophane) Taylor at Sacred Heart College.

To recognize the past while moving into the future, Newman officials decided to name a room in the theatre area of the De Mattias Fine Arts Center for each of the three women. The campaigns were developed to raise $20,000 per room, or $60,000 total. The campaigns sought to raise $30,000 through alumni gifts, with the other half to be matched by the Adorers of the Blood of Christ.

Sacred Heart theatre campaigns reach goals

Thanks to the generosity of Sacred Heart alums, the goals were readily met.

“We’re very happy with the response alumni had to the campaigns,” said Director of Mission Effectiveness and Sacred Heart College alumna Charlotte Rohrbach, ASC. “Since Sister Ambrosine and Sister Salome each taught at Sacred Heart Academy, many alumnae donated to both rooms, and we surpassed the goal of $20,000 per room. Sacred Heart College alumni also met their goal for the room in honor of Lillian Taylor.”

The dedication of the Sister Ambrosine Comerford, ASC Scene Shop and the Sister Salome Herman, ASC Re-hearsal Hall was scheduled for 2 p.m. on Oct. 14 in the De Mattias Fine Arts Center. Dedication of the Lillian Taylor Gathering Space & Conference Center will be at 1 p.m., Nov. 11 in the Fine Arts Center, followed by the theatre production Something’s Afoot at 2 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public. For more information call 316-942-4291, ext. 2167.

Members of the Sacred Heart Academy Class of 1962 gathered on Academy Plaza during their 50-year reunion May 4-5. Pictured are, l-r, front row: Mary Kay (Arndt) Schauf; Marilyn (Rausch) Krug; Olivia (Betzen) Allen; Norma (Dugan) Crain; Judy (Sheahan) Hageman; Pauline Martin; Ann (Turney) Neuok; second row: Rosalie (Olivier) Wahlstrom; Carol (Weber) Siegrist; Helen (Eck) Orth; Marlene (Linnebur) Simons; Geraldine (Betzen) Sas; LaVerne (Weber) Blasi; standing by statue: Barbara (Johnson) Jacobs; Kathleen Montgomery; Nicki (Shellenberger) Lies.

cour

tesy

pho

tos

cour

tesy

pho

to

AlumniNews


Blick, a priest in the Diocese of Wichita and longtime admirer of Fr. Emil Kapaun, entered the military and served as a chaplain in two deployments – one in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. He returned to Kansas in May. Now a pastor and chaplain in Hutchinson, Kan., Blick accepted the call of the Most Rev. Michael O. Jackels, Bishop of the Diocese of Wichita, to learn Spanish to better serve the people in Hutchinson, and initiated a door-to-door campaign to evangelize Hutchinson residents. Known for his warmth, joy, and exuberance for life, Blick was a model student and Catholic while at Kansas Newman College, and is considered a model priest today who has risked life and limb to serve Christ and His people.

Fr. Ned Blick ‘86 Beata Netemeyer Alumni Award

Beata Netemeyer, ASC served as the provincial of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ for the former Wichita province from its formation in 1929 until 1938. She was instrumen-tal in establishing Sacred Heart Junior College, now Newman University. This award honors alumni who continue her spirit of service as they minister with others bringing about the mission of Christ.

J.T. Klaus ‘87 St. Maria De Mattias Award

Klaus was a Cardinal Newman Scholar and an exceptional student leader who graduated Summa Cum Laude from Kansas Newman College. For the past 25 years he has been a loyal donor and loyal alumnus, attending homecomings, reunions, banquets and other events. Klaus played major roles in the institution’s name change in the late 1990s and on the NU logo design committee, and has been instrumental in supporting various devel-opment projects. A former Alumni Association Board member and president, he continues to provide leader-ship in several capacities. Klaus earned a J.D. from the University of Kansas School of Law and has built an impres-sive career as an attorney and member of Triplett, Woolfe & Garretson, LLC – but still steps up for Newman every time there is a need.

The award, named for the foundress of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, honors alumni who display a deep loyalty to Newman University and its mission. The award recipient has given meritorious and continuous support and stew-ardship to Newman University and Catholic life.

The Newman University National Alumni Associa-tion Board of Directors has announced the recipients

of the 2013 Distinguished Alumni Awards. The awards will be presented at the Cardinal Newman Banquet

and Awards Ceremony, Feb. 23, 2013 in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center on the Newman campus.

Alumni Award recipients to be honored Feb. 23

The recipients and their respective awards are:

alumni awardsco

urte

sy p

hoto

cour

tesy

pho

to

AlumniNews

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 2 9

Potter, now in his 15th year as Newman University head men’s basketball coach, has compiled the highest winning percentage in Newman’s basketball history. A former Newman basketball and base-ball player, Potter was chosen in 1998 to resurrect the men’s basketball program after an 11-year hiatus. In only the second year back, Potter led his team to an undefeated conference championship, a National Tournament berth, and a ranking of 13th in the nation. He has since led the Jets to other conference and national tournaments, and received numerous Coach of the Year awards. Despite his success, Potter found himself in a deep depression several years ago, which he ultimately overcame through treatment. He has since spoken widely of his experience so that others who suffer from depression will know there is hope. Potter is being honored for his courage and ability to turn personal adversity into positive action.

Gregory Cole Sr. ’95 Leon A. McNeill Distinguished Alumni Award

Mark Potter ’86 Spirit of Acuto Award

The Leon A. McNeill Distinguished Alumni Award honors graduates who have achieved outstanding success in their personal lives and careers. They have enriched the church spiritually, made contributions to society, and demonstrated concern for others. The award is named for the first president of Sacred Heart Junior College, now Newman University.

The Spirit of Acuto Award is named in honor of the driving spirit of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ. The conviction, “The charity of Christ urges us” led not only the ASC sisters but also the laity associated with them to respond to the needs of others. This award honors alumni and friends who, as a reflection of their association with Newman University, have been a driving force, using their talent and training at critical junctures to move a vision to reality.

Cole retired after 25 years in the U.S. Army, and has since built a highly successful career in education and training. A high school dropout, Cole discovered in the Army that learning and teaching were important to him, and later earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Newman University and a master’s degree in leadership from Southwestern College. He has served in numerous capacities as a counselor, coach, and teacher, including director of education for the Department of Corrections and director of education and training for several Fortune 500 companies. With his experience and vast knowledge in coaching and leadership development, he has created and implemented training programs in the areas of civic and corporate leadership. He is currently a civic leadership coach for the Kansas Leadership Center, and chairman and CEO of Good Life Company, which sells Little Bits cookies.

For more information or to reserve tickets for the Cardinal Newman Banquet and Awards Ceremony watch your mailbox, check www.newmanu.edu frequently, or contact Kelly Reynolds at 316-942-4291, ext. 2163 or [email protected].

alumni awardsDa

niel

le W

alla

ce

Dani

elle

Wal

lace

AlumniNews

EMILYBECKER

It’s just after 5 p.m. at the busy optometry office where Emily Becker, O.D. practices. Patients are on their way out, the staff is cleaning up, the front door is about to be locked, and the workday should be done. Becker, however, still has more to do; her fingers dance over her iPad, filling in patient charts as she sits down to talk with a visitor.

“Oh, I have to multitask sometimes to get everything done,” said Becker, a 2006 Newman University graduate.

Make no mistake about Becker’s tasks or long days, however. She’s living her

professional dream and, according to her, “I’m loving every moment of it.”

Ever since high school, Becker, 28, knew she wanted to be an optometrist, and she relentlessly pursued her goal. Sure, it would provide her with a good living, but the calling is much more than that to her — it’s making a difference in the lives of others.

“One of my favorite things is when a kid comes in here with a vision problem, and we’re able to correct it and all of a sudden it’s like they’re seeing in HD,” she said. “It’s just so rewarding.”

It’s also rewarding to help those who otherwise wouldn’t be helped, she said. In that regard, for the past two years, Becker has provided free eye exams to children in low-income households through her practice at West Wichita Family Optometrists.

The children, who don’t qualify for any other program, are referred to her by Newman nursing students, who screen secondary school students.

Amy Siple, associate professor of nursing at Newman, oversees the screening program, which takes place twice a year in eight Catholic schools with low-income student enrollment. To Siple, Becker’s contribution makes a vast difference for the less fortunate.

“Emily has a big heart for service,” Siple said of Becker. “She is just amazing and has gone above and beyond to help.”

Some other optometrists contacted by Siple agreed to see one or two cases, but Becker was different.

“She said, ‘Send me all the kids you’ve got,’” Siple said. “And it costs her money because she’s giving up appointment times that could be taken by paying patients, so I do recognize the sacrifice she’s making.”

Siple added that Becker not only donates time for exams, but also helps obtain glasses for her young patients at no cost.

A challengingacademic road

Becker’s path to becoming an optometrist did not come without plenty of hard

loves her calling and giving back to others in need

Emily has a big heart for

service. She has gone above

and beyond. — Amy Siple, associate professor of nursing

Send me all the kids you’ve got


GP P

hoto

grap

hy

AlumniNews

work. After graduating from Garden Plain High School in 2002, Becker enrolled at Newman and maintained a part-time job at the op-tometry office. She said she selected Newman because of its size, atmosphere and personal attention.

“It has all the resources you need and if you have trouble, you are able to approach the professor and get the problem solved,” said Becker, who majored in biology.

Becker added that the university prepared her well for future studies. She would need it, too, as her four years of post-graduate study at the University of Houston College of Optometry were tough – even more difficult than she anticipated.

Becker was up to the challenge, however, and rose to the high standards put before her, including real world experience her final year in which she helped serve patients on an Indian reservation in Oklahoma.

She graduated in 2010 and came back to Wichita to work for the eye clinic. So far, the experience has been “more fun and rewarding” than she even imagined. Becker works most of the week in the practice’s Wichita office, and spends a day and a half at its other location in Goddard. On an average day, she sees nine to 10 patients; on a full day, up to 13.

To Becker, her work is all about building and main-taining relationships. She recalls a child who was the victim of an eye accident. Becker was able to get him healed and now wants to be able to maintain the doctor-patient relationship as he grows and develops into an adult.

Becker said her parents, Brian and Jane Becker, played a major role in shaping who she is today. The couple occupies a place of honor in Becker’s examination room, in photos with Becker as she graduated from high school, college and finally, optometry school.

When not working, Becker enjoys spending time with

Building relationships

KNOW AN ALUM WHO IS TRANSFORMING SOCIETY

Recommend him or her for a future Alumni Profile in Challenge magazine! Just send a brief message on why this person would be a good subject for a profile to Director of Alumni Relations Sarah Cundiff at [email protected].

friends and family, and her mixed-breed dog, 1-year-old Shelby, at her home. Hobbies include “crafty things,” such as quilting and scrapbooking, and she enjoys giving her creations, including baby quilts, to others as gifts.

When asked if she is going to stick with optometry the rest of her career, Becker has an instant reply: “Oh, absolutely.” She is equally emphatic in her advice to others, including young students looking for direction in life: do what you’re passionate about.

“Just find what you are going to be happy at,” she said, “and you’ll love your job forever.”

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 31

Emily Becker poses for an informal picture with family members (l-r) front row: sister-in-law Jolene Becker, nephew Blane, and mother Jane, and, back row:

brother Brandon, father Brian, and brothers Ethan and Joel.

Becker joins with friends for a photo before a 5K race earlier this year.

cour

tesy

pho

tos

AlumniNews

For the fall 2012 semester, Newman University has close to 40 students who come to campus not as newcomers, but as old friends, taking part in an honored family tradition. As the newest flock begins its own NU story, we’re excited to introduce to you these legacy students and their proud Jet predecessors.

Alumni, thank you for choosing Newman again for your sons and daughters. In appreciation, every legacy student is offered an annual Alumni Grant of $1,000. If you want to update your Newman apparel, stop by the Alumni Relations office (3rd floor Sacred Heart Hall) for a free Newman T-shirt to support your “Baby Jets!”

If your Jet is ready to take flight to Newman, please let us know! Your family’s legacy of NU students will be featured in future editions of NU Generations, Newman’s annual salute to our important heritage!

If your name is missing from the list at right, contact Director of Alumni Relations Sarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ‘86, ‘90 at [email protected] or

316-942-4291, ext. 2166.

NU Generations

The Newman family tradition

From the Director of Alumni Relations Sarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ‘86, ‘90

CURRENT STUDENT PARENT(S)Kalynne Alloway Laurie Beth (Young) Alloway ’96

Anthony Boley Tina (LaBelle) ’90 and Edward ’11 Boley

Kayla Chamberlain Geri (Devins) Chamberlain ’97

John Denny David Denny ’87

Caitlin Elliott Barbara Elliott ’86

Adrienne Fox Ann (Roder) ‘81, ‘01 and Mark ‘78 Fox

Jacob Gaul Kelly Gaul ’89

Ashley Guhr R. Chad Dove ’11

Annemarie Hamersky Jeanne (Riddel) Hamersky ’90 and

Mary (Simon) Hamersky ’56 (Grandmother)

Chelsea Helena Wesley Helena, M.D. ’84

Hillary Hicks Melissa Nguyen ’88

Megan Holick Mark Holick ’84

Kelsie Huffman Marvin Huffman ’84

Deanna Jones Rita (Dick) Jones ’77

Kelsey Jones Arthur Jones ’04

Sarah Jones Mary (Grelinger) Jones ’84

Lindsay Keimig Cristin ’95 and Michael ’95 Keimig

Brett Kimball Angela (Wendel) Kimball ’88

Miranda Kohls Mary (Gorges) Kohls ’81

Brice Logan Lori (Range) Logan ’85

Emily Long Linda and Jeffrey ’92 Long

Thomas Manion Sharon (Miller) ’76 and Patrick Manion ’75

Emma Mattingly Mary Ann (Svoboda) Mattingly ’86

Emily Neises Katherine (Beyrle) Neises ‘81, ‘85

Ryan Pfeifer Sherry (Jimenez) ’88 and Michael ‘87 Pfeifer

Nicole Rau Steven Rau ’81

Tyler Rosenboom Kerry Rosenboom ’87

Erin Sanagorski Paul Sanagorski (Honorary alumnus) and

Debbie (Henderson) Viscosi ’84, ’89

Abigail Schmeidler Elaine (Blalock) Schmeidler ’90

Kara Simon LeAnne (Keefe) ’86 and Mark ’83 Simon

Victoria Simons Amanda (Wiemerslage) Simons ’97

Erika Smarsh Janelle (Kraus) Smarsh ’91

Alisa Sooter Vivian (Blick) Sooter ’75

Emily Spexarth Ann (Becker) Spexarth ’82

Colette Sponsel Susan (Berry) Sponsel ’92

Richelle Stone Jenifer (Meyer) Stone ’93

Elizabeth Unrein Christina (Wetta) Unrein ’91

Shelby Welch Laurie (Werth) Welch ’84

Attention all 2007-2012 Newman graduates:Please take a few moments to complete an online survey, and

your name will be entered into a drawing for $500 cash! The survey is for all Newman graduates who have received a bachelor’s or master’s degree within the past five years.

Your input provides information that is vital to understanding the experiences and perceptions of our alumni after graduation. Make your opinion count!

Simply go online to www.surveymonkey.com/s/RecentAlumniSurvey2012 and complete the survey by Dec. 12, 2012 to be entered into a drawing for a $500 cash award! It will only take a small amount of your time. So, what are you waiting for? Take the survey now!

For 2007-2012 grads

Online survey features $500 drawing!


cour

tesy

pho

to

ClassNotes

CURRENT STUDENT PARENT(S)Kalynne Alloway Laurie Beth (Young) Alloway ’96

Anthony Boley Tina (LaBelle) ’90 and Edward ’11 Boley

Kayla Chamberlain Geri (Devins) Chamberlain ’97

John Denny David Denny ’87

Caitlin Elliott Barbara Elliott ’86

Adrienne Fox Ann (Roder) ‘81, ‘01 and Mark ‘78 Fox

Jacob Gaul Kelly Gaul ’89

Ashley Guhr R. Chad Dove ’11

Annemarie Hamersky Jeanne (Riddel) Hamersky ’90 and

Mary (Simon) Hamersky ’56 (Grandmother)

Chelsea Helena Wesley Helena, M.D. ’84

Hillary Hicks Melissa Nguyen ’88

Megan Holick Mark Holick ’84

Kelsie Huffman Marvin Huffman ’84

Deanna Jones Rita (Dick) Jones ’77

Kelsey Jones Arthur Jones ’04

Sarah Jones Mary (Grelinger) Jones ’84

Lindsay Keimig Cristin ’95 and Michael ’95 Keimig

Brett Kimball Angela (Wendel) Kimball ’88

Miranda Kohls Mary (Gorges) Kohls ’81

Brice Logan Lori (Range) Logan ’85

Emily Long Linda and Jeffrey ’92 Long

Thomas Manion Sharon (Miller) ’76 and Patrick Manion ’75

Emma Mattingly Mary Ann (Svoboda) Mattingly ’86

Emily Neises Katherine (Beyrle) Neises ‘81, ‘85

Ryan Pfeifer Sherry (Jimenez) ’88 and Michael ‘87 Pfeifer

Nicole Rau Steven Rau ’81

Tyler Rosenboom Kerry Rosenboom ’87

Erin Sanagorski Paul Sanagorski (Honorary alumnus) and

Debbie (Henderson) Viscosi ’84, ’89

Abigail Schmeidler Elaine (Blalock) Schmeidler ’90

Kara Simon LeAnne (Keefe) ’86 and Mark ’83 Simon

Victoria Simons Amanda (Wiemerslage) Simons ’97

Erika Smarsh Janelle (Kraus) Smarsh ’91

Alisa Sooter Vivian (Blick) Sooter ’75

Emily Spexarth Ann (Becker) Spexarth ’82

Colette Sponsel Susan (Berry) Sponsel ’92

Richelle Stone Jenifer (Meyer) Stone ’93

Elizabeth Unrein Christina (Wetta) Unrein ’91

Shelby Welch Laurie (Werth) Welch ’84

C o n G r At u l At i o n S t o t h e C l A S S o f 2 0 1 2 ! We welcome you as degreed alumni! Please remember to keep us updated on your new adventures – employment, marriage, children, or anything else you would like your fellow alumni to know.

Marriages

’07 Andrew Kessler and ’07 Heather Likins on June 30, 2012. Andrew is a respiratory therapist at Hutchinson Re-gional Medical Center, Hutchinson, Kan.

’10 Casey Smith and Andrew McGraw on June 1, 2012. Casey is a first grade teacher at Skelly Elementary in El Dorado, Kan.

’11 Tessa Jacobs and Ryan Leonard on May 5, 2012.

Baby Jets

Born to ’02 Nicole Kramer and Jared Easterday, a son, Jonathan Max Easter-day, on June 12, 2012.

Born to ’05 Ashlee (Brooks) and Aaron Hilding, a son, Ian Maxwell Hilding, on July 10, 2012. Ashlee is the sister of ’07 Rachel (Brooks) Ely, and daughter of ’00 Wesley and Patty Brooks. Patty is an admissions processing manager at Newman.

Class Notes

’57, ’61 Pat (Lager) and Martin Hampel celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 27, 2012.

’60 Margie (Simon) and Paul Gru-enbacher celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 26, 2012.

’93 Monica Walker has been named the Texas AgriLife Extension Service family and consumer sciences agent for Baylor County.

’95 Jodi Testa has been honored as a Region I Kansas Master Teacher 2012, and recently accepted a position as as-sistant principal at a new school in USD 475 (Geary County, Kan.).

’99 Jennifer Clark was one of only two teachers selected as USD 361 (An-thony, Harper, Chaparrel, Kan.) Teacher of the Year for 2011-2012.

’04 John Werner has completed his graduate studies from the Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Ind. Werner graduated with a master’s degree in divinity and is currently seek-ing a pastoral ministry assignment in the United Church of Christ.

’05 Mike Scheve, D.O. has taken the leadership position of the program formerly known as the Via Christi Family Medicine Mini-Intership Program, which is the Via Christi residency program’s service to local pre-med undergraduates.

’06 Danna Schweitzer has recently published a novel, Secrets in the Desert. Schweitzer works as a director of religious education for a small parish in rural Oklahoma.

’08 Danielle (Gorges) Dick has joined Advanced Physical Therapy in Haysville, Kan., as a physical therapist.

’12 Stephanie Fleming is a photog-rapher at Total Image Photography in her hometown of Chanute, Kan.

Obituaries

George Riebel, brother of ’38 Florentia Riebel, ASC, and ’40,’54 Leona Riebel, ASC, and father of ‘65 Phyllis (Riebel) James, on April 1, 2012.

’39 Helen (Gunzelman) Pickett, sister of ’36 Verena Gunzelman, ASC, on Feb. 2, 2012.

’40, ’54 Macrina Seidl, ASC, on May 10, 2012.

’47 Lu Vera (Stoecklein) Rohr, sister of ’49 Cleo (Stoecklein) Werth, ’55 Mary Ann (Stoecklein) Pavlu, and ’59, ’63 Darlene Stoecklein, ASC, on June 27, 2012.

’53 Karmen Arlene (Scheer) Schwae, on April 5, 2012.

’54 Alice Marie Albert, on May 3, 2012.

’64 Ellen Catherine (Cregan) Ander-ton, on May 10, 2012.

’67 Betty Mae Tangney, on March 27, 2012.

Julietta Rose “Pelz” Seiler, mother of ’72 Mary Rose (Seiler) Jirak, ’80 Daniel Seiler, ’81 Rebecca (Seiler) Dugan, ’83 Donna (Seiler) Quaney, ’88 Judy Seiler, and ’88 Jamie (’11 Terry) Gorges, on May 3, 2012.

Bonnie Rawlings, mother of ’76 Diana Marie Rawlings, ASC, on June 26, 2012.

Albert Simon Rohleder, father of ’79 Albert Jr. (’82 Maureen) Rohleder, on April 20, 2012.

Wilma Ann (Blough) Rosell, mother ’80 Dana Fugate, on Aug. 1, 2012.

Ruth Helen (Hampel) Heithaus, mother of ’81 Nancy (Heithaus) Vail, on June 11, 2012. A memorial has been established at the Newman University School of Nursing.

Bryce F. Hayes, father of Newman University Nurse Anesthesia Program Director ’82, ’89 Sharon Niemann CRNA, MHS, husband of ’80 Carol (Phye) Hayes and grandfather of ’07 Amanda Wheeler, on April 9, 2012. A memorial has been established at Newman University.

’88 Don L. Schrader, on May 11, 2012.

’02 Holly Gray Potelle, on June 18, 2012.

Friends of the University

Baby Jets

Born to Anne and Chuck Chandler, a daughter, Taylor Alice, on March 24, 2012. Anne is the director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at Newman.

Born to Brian and Laura Hupach, a daughter, MaKaya, on March 20, 2012. Laura is dean of students at Newman.

Obituaries

Jolie Kay (Bond) Crosby, on June 2, 2012. Crosby is the daughter of Sara Bond, who served as director of devel-opment for Newman from 1989 to 2001.

Diane Thomas Lincoln, on June 5, 2012. Lincoln was an art teacher at Newman.

While on her way to dinner with friends this past summer, Newman President Noreen Carrocci, Ph.D. had a chance encounter with ’63 Mary Lu (Coffey) Tuthill, left, and

’72 Tom Dondlinger, longtime Newman supporter and former Board of Trustees chair. Dondlinger’s wife Colleen is a sister of Tuthill. Tuthill was visiting Wichita from her

home in California to celebrate the 94th birthday of her and Colleen’s mother, Erma Coffey.

w w w . n e w m a n u . e d u | 33

Do you have a Class Note to share with fellow alumni

Contact us at: Newman UniversityAlumni Office3100 McCormickWichita, KS 67213 316-942-4291, ext. 2166 [email protected] www.newmanu.edu/alumni

For more Class Notes, visit www.newmanu.edu/alumni

cour

tesy

pho

to

cour

tesy

pho

to

Once again Newman University has been named to the

President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.

Thank you to all our students for their hard work and dedication!

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDWICHITA KS

PERMIT NO. 458

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Challenge Alumni Magazine Fall 2012

Documents

Transcript of Challenge Alumni Magazine Fall 2012