Fall 2014
sister margaret knoeber devotes life to science and education Alumni award recipients 'the ageless arm'
U N I V E R S I T Y M AG A Z I N E
International ASC team visits newman
from the president
Newman University Magazine Vol. 2 No. 1
Newman University President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. Vice President for University Advancement J.V. Johnston ’82 Director, Alumni Relations Sarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ’86, ’90 Director, Communications Kelly Snedden, M.A. Director, Editorial Services Ken Arnold Publications Staff Editors
Ken Arnold Kelly Snedden Adorers of the Blood of Christ – United States Region Leadership Team Barb Hudock, ASC, Region Leader Maria Hughes, ASC Janet McCann, ASC Jan Renz, ASC Francine Schuster, ASC Newman University Board of Trustees Gerald (Jerry) T. Aaron Donette Alonzo ’88 Rose Therese Bahr, ASC Teresa Hall Bartels ’73 Michael Bukaty Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., President John Clevenger Rev. Frank Coady Linda Snook Davison ’77, Chair Kenneth C. Doonan Tad Druart ’87 Glenn Dugan ’85 Elaine Freund, ASC Bart A. Grelinger, MD, FAAN ’83 Gerry Killeen ’69 J.T. Klaus ’87 Patricia Koehler Jeffrey Korsmo Archie Macias ’74, Vice-Chair Tony Madrigal Janet McCann, ASC Jan Renz, ASC Vera Robl Gabrielle Rowe, ASC Larry P. Schumacher Rev. Michael Simone Bob Simpson ’83 Jacqueline Vietti Rev. Thomas A.Welk Stephen Williamson, MD ’76 Thomas M. Ruane, Sr.* * Director Emeritus
| http://mag.newmanu.edu
Contributing Writers
Robin Allard ’14 Ken Arnold Kati Bush ’16 Sarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ’86, ’90 Angela Howell Annette Lough Alice Mannette
Dear Alumni and Friends,
Steve Rasmussen
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The beginning of a new academic year is always an exciting time at Newman University. It’s always a pleasure to see everyone back on campus, and to greet our new and returning students, who come to us filled with optimism and eager to explore new opportunities for growth and development in academics, sports, music, theatre and all the other courses of study and activities we offer. I think we have a great year ahead of us.
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Newman University Executive Officers Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., President Michael Austin, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Mark Barrett, M.S., Vice President for Enrollment Management Jennifer Gantz, M.S. Vice President for Finance and Administration J.V. Johnston Vice President for University Advancement Victor Trilli, M.S. Ed. Director of Athletics National Alumni Board Tim Belsan ’05 Chase Blasi ’16, Student Representative Larry Crow Jr. ’06 Sarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ’86, ’90 Tad Druart ’87, President Patrick Edwards ’07 Jesse A. Gray ’12 Jennifer D. Green ’88 Renee (Soukup) Hein, Ph.D. ’02, Vice President Dennis Hemken ’73, Secretary Ryan Huschka, Ph.D. ’07, Faculty Representative Paul Kapalata ’10 Eric Leitzel ’10 Kathy (Chervenak) Linnebur ’99, ’08 Michael W. Ludlow ’08 Nicole (Lee) Manbeck ’06 Chet Schrader, MD ’01 Judith Simon ’66, ’70, Academy Representative Leasha Strang ’11 Anthony Tamburro ’03, ’07, Immediate Past President Therese Wetta ASC ’64, ASC Representative Tammy (McCormick) White ’11, ’13 Logan Winter ’13, Young Alumni Representative
Fall 2014 Vol. 2 No. 1 Newman University Magazine is published twice a year in October and April, by the Office of University Advancement, University Relations Department for alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the university. Send address changes to cundiffs@ newmanu.edu or Alumni Director, Newman University, 3100 McCormick, Wichita, KS, 67213-2097. Mailing lists are confidential and are not furnished to outside organizations. Newman University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, 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, handicap, national or ethnic origin. ©2014 Newman University
This past August, we marked the beginning of a new year as we often do, with an Opening Prayer and Reflection in the Woman of the New Covenant Chapel at the Adorers of the Blood of Christ Wichita Center. This year’s service was especially meaningful and exciting, because we were blessed by the presence of the Adorers International General Administration Team. The team, made up of five Sisters from ASC congregations around the world, is based in Rome, and visits each ASC region once during their six-year terms. The Sisters graciously accepted our invitation to visit Newman, where they took part in some meetings with Newman faculty, staff and students a few days before the opening service. Two of the Sisters led us in prayer at the service, and spoke of the theme of the visit, “Prophetic Today, with a Reconciling Heart.” Their words of peace, reconciliation and collaboration were truly inspiring. You can read more about the Sisters and their visit to Newman in this magazine. As I reflect on the Sisters’ visit and the international aspect of the congregation, I am reminded that Newman is the only university sponsored by the ASC, and that Sisters around the world pray each day for Newman, and its students, faculty and staff. With that thought, the 2014-15 academic year looks especially bright. After all, with the prayers of more than 1,300 Sisters Adorers behind us, how could we not have a wonderful year? Thank you for all you do for Newman University. Sincerely,
Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D.
Newman 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.
Newman University Sports Information Department
table of contents
DEPARTMENTS 2 University News 20 Giving 22 Faculty and Staff Notes 24 Athletics 26 Alumni Updates 40 Class Notes
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24
6 22
4
‘How hot is it?’
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Honoring the Monsignor
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A trailblazer
16
International development
18
Service and Salvation
22
‘Make the Bed’
24
At the top of their game
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Alumni Awards
30
From NU to UN
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300 and 50
ON THE COVER:
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Members of the ASC International General Administration Team recently visited Newman University. Pictured l-r are Sisters Sonia Pinho de Matos, Nadia Coppa, Mariamma Kunnackal, Barbara Smith and Zita Resch. Newman and the ASC are exploring new ways to collaborate. Learn more on page 16. Photo by Dan Murphy Correction: John Connolly was not included in the list of retiring faculty on page 27 of the Spring 2014 Newman University Magazine.
Newman Board welcomes three new members
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University News
Newman University’s commencement traditions are about to change. Beginning this May, the university will hold a commencement ceremony only at the end of the spring semester.
The Newman University Board of Trustees welcomed three new members at the September Board meetings.
Donette Alonzo is a 1988 graduate of Kansas Newman College and a former Newman University board member. Alonzo most recently served as Vice President of Student Affairs at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kan. Previous to that she held positions in multicultural and international student affairs at Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Mo. Father Michael Simone, STL is Interim Moderator of the Curia and Director of Vocations at the Diocese of Wichita. He served as chaplain and director of Campus Ministry at Newman University from 2010 to 2011. Fr. Simone has also served as associate pastor for St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, assistant director of the Office of Worship, and vice-chancellor.
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Newman decided to join other private colleges and universities in Kansas by having only one commencement at the end of each academic year.
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Elaine Freund, ASC is a member of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ Communications Team at the ASC Regional Office in St. Louis, Mo. Sister Elaine retired in June 2013 after 41 years as a full-time teacher of English and Theology. She celebrated 50 years as an Adorer on June 8, 2014.
Newman University moves to single spring commencement
According to Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael Austin, Ph.D., the change “will allow us to hold Baccalaureate Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, where there will be room for graduates, their families, faculty and staff.” Austin added that Newman officials will move commencement to Wichita’s Century II Center, which will also provide more room for all. The move will also save time for Newman faculty and staff who work for weeks to produce a commencement ceremony. Newman will hold a reception in December for students finishing their degrees in the fall. Those graduates will receive their degrees by mail after being certified by the Registrar. – Robin Alford ‘14
University News
Kansas Legislature recognizes Newman University
change in their families’ lives, and how the state of Kansas is lucky to have Newman University,” said Associate In March, the Kansas House of RepreVice President of Academic Services sentatives and the Senate unanimously and Student Development Rosemary passed separate resolutions commemorat- Niedens. ing the history, values, contributions to the community and 80th Anniversary of The House and Senate resolutions the founding of Newman University. outlined major points in the history of In the House, Rep. Ponca-We Victors of the 103rd District, a 2005 Newman graduate, sponsored and introduced the resolution (HR 6057) and presented comments about her alma mater.
Newman, and noted the university’s mission to “empower graduates to transform society” and the Core Values of Catholic Identity, Academic Excellence, Culture of Service and Global Perspective.
Newman Student Government Association Secretary and Treasurer Chase Blasi, who is now SGA president, spearheaded the effort by contacting Victors and O’Donnell. The legislators’ staff worked closely with university officials and Blasi to write the resolutions. The trip to Topeka also included a brief meeting with Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback. For more on this story go to http://news.newmanu.edu/KS-Legislature.
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In the Senate, Sen. Michael O’Donnell of the 25th District introduced the Senate resolution (SR 1797) and offered positive remarks about Newman University. He was joined by Sen. Les Donovan of the 27th District and Sen. Oletha FaustGoudeau of the 29th District. “It was exciting to be there and hear the legislators say such great things about Newman University,” said Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., who was among a number of Newman representatives who attended the events at the Capitol in Topeka. “The standing ovations we received in both chambers brought us to tears.” Donovan spoke about the positive effect Newman had on his grandsons – one a recent graduate of Newman and another a current graduate student. “It was truly moving listening to these legislators making tributes to Newman, and saying how Newman has made a
Representatives from Newman University met with Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback while in Topeka. Pictured with Brownback (seated) are, l-r: Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D.; Newman student Jonathan Albers; Associate Vice President of Academic Services and Student Development Rosemary Niedens; Rep. Ponca-We Victors; Rep. Roderick Houston; Newman student Chase Blasi; Director of Mission Effectiveness and Archives Charlotte Rohrbach, ASC; Associate Professor of Theology Joshua Papsdorf, Ph.D., and Associate Professor of History Kelly McFall, Ph.D.
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Kati Bush ’16
University News
Science Department receives new instrument for chemistry lab The Newman University Science Department recently received a donation of an instrument to help chemistry students learn industry standards for research. The instrument, a Perkin-Elmer Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrophotometer (ICPOES), will be installed in November, once modifications have been made to the lab.
“This instrument aspirates liquid samples into a very excited gas called a plasma,” said John Sander, vice president of technology at Lubrication Engineers of Wichita, the firm that donated the instrument to Newman. “The temperature of the plasma is in the range of the temperature at the surface of the sun. The electrons within the atoms of the materials present in the sample are excited to an elevated state. As they drop back to their preferred ground state they emit energy in the form of light that is representative of each specific element present in the sample.” The instrument has the ability to measure the content of elemental metals 4
NEWMAN UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
Kati Bush ’16
Kati Bush ’16
The spectrometer, as these types of instruments are commonly referred to, is used to measure the concentration of various metals such as lead, iron, chromium or aluminum in materials such as groundwater, soils and sludge. Students will use the instrument on research projects, including measuring the levels of chromium, arsenic and lead in cosmetics.
The new spectrometer will be installed in late fall following modifications to the lab. The instrument is roughly 5 feet long, 3 feet tall, and weighs about 500 lbs.
The chemistry lab has two other, smaller spectrometers.
to parts-per-billion levels. Sander said Lubrication Engineers upgrades their spectrometers every 8 to 10 years and it was time for the ICP-OES to be upgraded. Company officials decided to donate it rather than throw it away. “The ICP is still in very good operating condition, and we didn’t really want to send a working instrument to the landfill,” Sander said. Sander is a lector at a church also attended by Renee Hein, Ph.D., a 2002 alumna and former assistant
professor of chemistry at Newman. When Sander asked Hein if there would be any interest by Newman in the ICP, she put Sander in contact with the Science Department. “This is a type of instrument that many companies have,” Hein said. “Students who graduate with a chemistry degree need to have experience with as many common instruments as possible.” – Robin Allard ‘14
Kati Bush ’16
University News
Newman welcomes Father John Fogliasso as chaplain, theology professor Father John Fogliasso joined the faculty and staff at Newman University as Chaplain, Director of Campus Ministry and Assistant Professor of Theology, effective June 11. Fogliasso was appointed to Newman by the Most Rev. Carl Kemme, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Wichita. Fogliasso replaces Father Michael Linnebur, who has been appointed pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Chanute, Kan., and St. Joseph Parish in Humboldt, Kan.
Photos Kati Bush ’16
Fogliasso, a Girard, Kan., native, received his Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Pittsburg State University in 2005. He spent two years at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Minnesota and four years studying at KenrickGlennon Seminary in St. Louis, Mo. Over those six years he received Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Theology degrees. He was ordained to the deaconate in 2010 and to the priesthood in 2011. For three years, he has served as Associate Pastor of the Church of the Magdalene in Wichita.
The Heimerman Science Center was the scene of a fire June 2, 2014. The fire was limited to the office of Professor Emeritus of Biology Surendra Singh, Ph.D. There were no injuries, but the office was seriously damaged and some of Singh’s personal effects were damaged or destroyed. To see more photos, go to http://newmanu.edu/heimerman-fire.
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University News
Twenty-five priests of the Diocese of Wichita attended
Photos Kelly Snedden
a luncheon hosted by Newman University in February 2014. During the luncheon priests had the opportunity to get to know more about the university and plans for future facilities upgrades.
Kelly Snedden
L-r: Father Daniel Vacca, pastor of St. Jude Parish, The Most Rev. Eugene Gerber, bishop emeritus of the Diocese of Wichita, and Father Joe Gile, Newman associate professor and director of the Graduate Theology Program, chat before the luncheon.
Catholic Diocese of Wichita
L-r: Former Wichita Diocese Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia Monsignor Robert Hemberger and Pastor of the Church of the Magdalen Parish Father Patrick York share a laugh before the luncheon.
L-r: Father Leroy Linnebur, retired, Father Michel Linnebur, former Newman chaplain, and Father Ivan Eck, retired. Father Leroy Linnebur is Father Mike Linnebur’s uncle.
The Most Rev. Carl A. Kemme was ordained the
11th bishop of the Diocese of Wichita on May 1. On May 9, Bishop Kemme celebrated Baccalaureate Mass and delivered the homily during his first visit to Newman University. Father Michael Linnebur with Newman alum Father Ned Blick ’86, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in South Hutchinson.
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University News
Monsignor Robert Hemberger was honored by Newman University
been the diocesan representative to the Newman Board of Trustees since February 2008. To see a video of the reception, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixgii4nVFOk.
Photos Kati Bush ’16
at a June 9 reception that drew a standing-room only crowd in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center. Monsignor Hemberger, retired in June after serving for nearly a year as Diocesan Administrator and for several years as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Wichita. He had
Patrick O’Shaughnessy and Newman University President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. with Monsignor Robert Hemberger.
Via Christi Health President and CEO and Newman Board of Trustees member Jeff Korsmo spoke of his admiration for Monsignor Hemberger.
A large crowd gathered at Newman to see Monsignor Hemberger off.
The Most Rev. Eugene Gerber, bishop emeritus of the Diocese of Wichita, offers some comic, and touching, comments about Monsignor Hemberger.
Newman Board of Trustees Chair Linda Snook Davison ’77 holds the microphone for her mother, Helen Bergkamp, as she speaks about Monsignor Hemberger during the reception.
Monsignor Hemberger hugs his brother Father Kent Hemberger following the younger Hemberger’s remarks.
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Sister Margaret Knoeber devotes life to science and education By Annette Lough
Judging simply by her appearance today – the calm demeanor, soft voice and distinctive necklace identifying her as a professed member of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ – you may not think of Margaret Knoeber, ASC as a trailblazer. Yet that is exactly what she is – a woman who blazed many trails, over several decades, as a scholar, educator and lifelong learner. In fact, not know of her remarkable capacity for teaching. 8
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were it not for her passion for learning, we would
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Kati Bush ’16
Knoeber is a well-known and beloved figure at Newman University, particularly among students of science and the health sciences. She grew up on a small farm in Spearville, Kan., alongside five siblings in the 1930s and 1940s. She excelled in school, and moved to Wichita to receive her high school education at Sacred Heart Academy, graduating in 1949. She entered the novitiate that same year and was given the name Carmeline, eventually taking back her given name. She made her first profession of vows in 1950 and her final profession in 1955. While teaching elementary education— something for which she had a great affinity—Knoeber continued her own studies, working toward a bachelor of science degree in Natural Sciences, which she earned in 1961 from Sacred Heart College. Her thirst for knowledge, and her innate interest in the sciences, offered her experiences and led her to places the scholarly small-town Kansas girl says she “feels privileged” to have gone. She attended some of the Midwest’s finest Catholic institutions of higher learning, including summer classes at Creighton University in the early 1960s. “I saw my assignment to Creighton posted and I thought it was a mistake,” she recalls, the thrill of that assignment still fresh in her memory. The time at Creighton only served to underscore Knoeber’s interest in science, because the university did not offer an advanced degree in the subject. Margaret was on to the next post, the University of Notre Dame—another trail to be blazed, certainly, and an experience for which she still has great appreciation.
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“The older Sisters shared with us younger ones what we could and could not do,” recalls Knoeber. “We asked permission before doing almost anything to avoid conflict of any kind.” The sisters stayed in a special dorm; it was not in the best condition and roaches and other unwanted guests were plentiful (Fortunately, a year or two later, a beautiful new dorm was built). After a few years, Notre Dame began accepting women outside the religious order. A new day had dawned for women in education, and Knoeber was at the forefront.
‘A high bar to reach’
“I realize I was privileged that this [opportunity] was just handed to me,” she said.
Once at Notre Dame, she began working to earn a doctorate in organic chemistry, one of only five women in that field at the time. Knoeber delights at recalling her days there, recounting how students had to schedule a specific day to use certain instruments and equipment, but then had access to the instruments for the full 24 hours. By her logic, that meant staying up all night so she got the best use out of the equipment.
Knoeber received a one-year scholarship, and was among 65 women religious who attended Notre Dame through a special
She was lauded for her methodical research, work that was cited many times according to her instructors. Knoeber did
NEWMAN UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
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65 out of 8,000
graduate program — in a school of 8,000 young men.
her research under the direction of Dr. Ernest Eliel, a worldrenowned chemical researcher and educator.
the highlight of her career. That passion, shared with students through mentoring, was evident, in the way she was able to connect with her charges.
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“They actually learned during this time that women do research “She was a demanding teacher with a high bar to reach, but in a way men do not,” Knoeber recalled. “A woman will work also with the ability to show you where the ladder was and how honestly until she finds results. That really went a long way to use it,” said Patrick Wolf, M.D., a 1974 Newman graduate. toward allowing more undergrad women at Notre Dame.” He added that he had very little knowledge about what higher education and medical school involved. “My parents both only Knoeber completed her Ph.D. at Notre Dame in 1967. went to the eighth grade. They were both from farm families of nine siblings who were very close and very decent, good She returned to Sacred Heart College in 1967 and began people—however, none of my aunts and uncles went to college, teaching chemistry. Within a year, she created the Chemistry much less into professions like medicine. I had no examples to Department and launched a four-year chemistry degree follow and quite frankly, I did not know what the training in program. Her innate kindness, coupled with an unquenchable medicine entailed.” curiosity, made her a gifted instructor, and teaching was really
Sister Margaret Knoeber, seated second from left, was one of only three women selected by competitive application for a 1975 meeting of the Institute for Science Faculty, at Argonne National Laboratory in Chicago, Ill. The prestigious four-day event drew applications from science faculty at colleges across the nation. FALL 2014
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A pioneer Knoeber has impacted the lives of many through her emphasis on education. She established the Pre-Med Committee, a resource that has helped many students be accepted into medical schools across the country. As Alumni Director at Newman University in the 1980s, Knoeber helped build a solid alumni base through a successful capital campaign. She was called away from this service by her religious congregation when she was named to the newly selected Leadership Team of the Adorers in 1990, a role she maintained until 1996. Following a sabbatical, Knoeber worked with Newman to launch a Pastoral Ministry Program in Dodge City, Kan. To bring the program to rural communities in the Diocese of Dodge City, she helped pioneer interactive television (ITV) technology in western Kansas. She continued to direct the Pastoral Ministry program for several years. She returned to Wichita in 2002 as Archivist for the Wichita Province, and then the newly converged United States Province of the Adorers. Knoeber has touched the lives of many students over the past several decades, and whether speaking of past or present day, she still has that same zest, that same curiosity that was the driving force for her to become the accomplished educator Newman students and alumni admire. Sister Margaret Knoeber at the Trevi Fountain in Rome.
Wolf says Knoeber’s encouragement, guidance and commitment to his growth as a student was instrumental in his success. “I especially remember her patience with me; organic chemistry was hard.” She also had a way of putting students without an aptitude for science at ease, carefully explaining safety protocol and instilling in students confidence in themselves. “I would just tell them, if something does happen during an experiment, this is how we will handle it,” recalled Knoeber. Once the unknown was known, any fears were batted away. 12
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In 2012, an anonymous donor made a gift of $25,000 to establish a scholarship in her honor, citing a great respect for Knoeber, and a desire to recognize the high level of energy and enthusiasm she brought to her work at Newman and other organizations. The donor also noted Knoeber’s love of life, happiness with her religious life, commitment to students and ability to help them realize their full potential. It is the perfect recognition for a woman for whom education means so much.
Former students remember Sister Margaret
Austin Solis ’15
On April 12, 2014, a large group of alumni, current and former faculty and staff and other well-wishers gathered on the Newman campus to celebrate 80 Years of Science and Mathematics Education at Newman University. Among other activities, Margaret Knoeber ASC, along with Professor Emeritus of Biology Surendra Singh, Ph.D. and Director of Transfer Student Orientation and Retention JoAnn Mark, ASC, Ph.D., were honored for their service to the development of science and math at the university. Each was presented with a “Memory Book” containing tributes from former students and colleagues. At right are some of the comments in Sister Margaret’s Memory Book.
The other teachers honored here this evening helped me along the way, but I would not be a pharmacist if it were not for Sr. Margaret, her dedication, her belief in me and her version of “tough love.” - Leonard Utz ’75, Pharmacist Sister Margaret, you were always so kind and very helpful when I struggled with Organic Chemistry II. When I had some personal challenges, you were there to lend an ear, and provide good, sound advice. I appreciate you and I am thankful you were a part of my life!! - Margaret Schaefer Hebenstreit ’78, PT It was such a privilege to have had the opportunity to have been in your classroom way back when. . . I thought you, my teacher, were amazing; the course actually was one of the main reasons I got into dental school. I actually thought you made Organic Chemistry easy. I don’t know why the good Lord blessed me to have been honored to grant me this relationship, but all I can say is thank you Lord and thank you, Sr. Margaret. You are an incredible teacher, and I’ve been blessed to know you. - Mark Troilo ’74, DDS Amazing, intelligent and a caring woman who knew and LOVED organic chemistry. . . You, Sister Margaret, were one of the most motivating professors who encouraged many of us to go to medical school. - Catherine Powers ’78, MD
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Features
Newman University has launched an online program to help healthcare professionals become certified in the field of Computed Tomography - commonly For more about this program, go to referred to as Cat Scan. Newman is now http://news.newmanu.edu/newman-ct the only institution of higher learning in the Wichita area to offer a CT program, and one of only three CT certification programs in the state of Kansas. The online CT program is a new concentration of the existing Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Science degree. It was created in response to new requirements by hospitals and clinics that all CT technologists on staff be registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART). Until recently, registered technologists received on-the-job training or crosstrained into CT, with no requirements for certification. The Newman program provides training to prepare students to take the registration exam. “We believe the program will attract people working in the field, and students in the radiology program [a two-year program] who may want to stay and earn a bachelor’s degree, since the CT courses will also be included as a concentration in the Healthcare Science bachelor’s degree program,” said Newman Assistant Professor and Director of Radiologic Technology Kathy Hammond. The program is offered entirely online to give those outside Wichita the opportunity to earn the CT certificate while continuing to work. Newman helps students secure local sites for the clinical component of their training. –Robin Allard ’14 14
NEWMAN UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
Photos Austin Solis ’15
Newman launches online Computed Tomography program
Features
New biology concentrations designed to provide clearer pathways for students
With the changes, the Bachelor of Science in Biology program now offers 13 concentrations in areas including pre-med, pre-pharmacy, pre-veterinary, pre-optometry and others. The new concentrations were created largely by grouping current classes to match the specific areas students wish to pursue. “We actually only created a few new classes; mostly it was a matter of reorganizing the classes and systems we already had in place,” said Associate Professor of Biology Stacy Jones, Ph.D., who played a major role in the development of the new concentrations.
into graduate and professional schools is increasingly competitive, and schools are requiring more specific prerequisite coursework. The concentrations also help alleviate concerns among students and their parents that majors such as “pre-medicine” and others are not offered by Newman. The new approach will also make the best use of faculty resources, Jones said. Jones and the other members of the Biology Department spent about two years planning how to adjust the curriculum to meet student demand, and at the same time to continue to deliver high quality instruction. While the concentrations are relatively new, Jones said the response has been positive.
The Bachelor of Science in Biology is now offered with the following concentrations: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Pre-Med (M.D. or D.O.) Pre-Pharmacy (PharmD) Pre-Physician Assistant Pre-Physical Therapy Pre-Occupational Therapy Pre-Dentistry Pre-Veterinary (DVM) General Biology Biomedical Research Pre-Chiropractic Pre-Optometry Pre-Medical Technology Biology Teacher
Austin Solis ’15
The Newman University Division of Science and Mathematics recently made some curriculum adjustments to provide a clearer and more organized academic path for biology students planning to pursue post-graduate studies. The adjustments are designed to prepare students for post-graduate work in their chosen profession.
“It’s only been a year, but so far we’re getting good feedback from students,” she said. “They seem to like having a concentration for their career.”
To earn the Bachelor of Science in Biology, all students take about 40 credithours of core biology courses, Jones said. They then choose the concentration they desire. Each concentration requires 19 to 44 additional credit-hours to meet the overall degree requirements. The new concentrations were introduced in the 2013-14 academic year. Jones said the changes were made so students could focus their upper division required classes and electives for their chosen career. It also made sense to do concentrations because gaining admission
Associate Professor of Biology Stacy Jones, Ph.D. helped develop the biology concentrations.
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Features
Meetings with ASC leaders from around the world focuses on collaboration The bond between Newman University and the Adorers of the Blood of Christ (ASC) has always run deep. Newman, of course, would not even exist had it not been for the ASC, the founding sponsors of the university.
the potential for greater international collaboration between Newman and the ASC – including possible internships and service trips for Newman faculty and students in places where the ASCs live and serve.
Newman 2014- 2019 Strategic Plan to “encourage service-learning and internship opportunities for students, in collaboration with the ASC congregation, in areas of the country and world where vulnerable populations are in need.”
The strength of that bond was made even more powerful recently, thanks to meetings and discussions on increased collaboration with officials from Newman and members of the ASC, including the International General Administration Team.
Several showed strong interest, while others were open to the idea but had questions about possible language issues. To continue moving the idea forward, Newman officials later compiled a list for faculty of opportunities in each country, and communicated faculty and student interest through letters to ASC Sisters in each country.
The team visits Newman
These efforts are steps toward implementing an objective in the
Dan Murphy
The international team, which is based in Rome, is made up of seven Sisters from countries around the world. Some members of the team visit each region of the ASC congregation once during their six-year term. This year, five team members came to the U.S. Region to visit and for an Inter-Assembly Congress, which is held every six years and includes the General Administration Team, and Regional Superiors and Foundation Superiors from around the world.
Following the Congress in Ruma, the international team visited Newman University. The visitors included team members Zita Resch, ASC, of Liechtenstein; Mariamma Kunnackal, ASC, of India; Nadia Coppa, ASC, of Italy; Sonia Pinho de Matos, ASC, of Brazil, and Barbara Smith, ASC of the United States. They were accompanied by U.S. Region Leader Barbara Hudock,
Held at the ASC Center in Ruma, Ill., ASC Sisters were present from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Croatia, Guinea Bissau, India, Italy, Korea, Lichtenstein, The Philippines, Poland, Spain, Tanzania and the United States. Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. and Director of Development for Sciences and Health Sciences Therese Wetta, ASC were invited to join the Sisters one evening to speak about Newman, and to discuss Sonia Pinho de Matos, ASC (in white sweater) read prepared remarks and led Newman faculty and staff through a prayer at the Woman of the New Covenant Chapel during her visit to Wichita 16
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Dan Murphy
Features
Excerpts from the prayers of Zita Resch, ASC and Sonia Pinho de Matos, ASC Aug. 18, 2014 at the Woman of the New Covenant Chapel, ASC Wichita Center Sister Zita Resch: The German poet Hermann Hesse, has in his work “The Glass Bead Game” a prophetic verse from the poem called “Steps”: A magic dwells in each beginning Protecting us – tells us how to live. A beginning is here – a new way, path, and journey! A magic dwells in it, a deep wondering is within us – what will be? What will it look like? Whom will I meet? How will I make it? . . . May it be a blessed new beginning!
Zita Resch, ASC spoke to members of the Newman community during her August visit.
ASC, and Janet McCann, ASC, who is a member of the Newman Board of Trustees.
Newman faculty and staff that takes place a week before the official start of the new academic year.
As part of their visit, the team met with groups of faculty, staff and students to, as noted by Sister Mariamma Kunnacka, spend time with members of the Newman community to appreciate “the gift of you” and Newman’s collaboration with the ASC and its mission. The team asked participants to discuss the theme of their visit: “Prophetic Today, with a Reconciling Heart.” The Sisters also asked participants to consider and discuss their personal experiences of being an “Ambassador of Reconciliation,” with others and with God, in their private and professional lives. The Sisters then asked the groups to reflect on the blessings and challenges of collaboration with the ASC, and suggest what would help foster further collaboration.
The daylong meeting begins with the university’s traditional Opening Prayer and Reflection in the Woman of the New Covenant Chapel at the Adorers of the Blood of Christ Wichita Center. Two of the international team members, Sister Zita Resch and Sister Sonia Pinho de Matos, spoke briefly at the service and led the opening prayers.
Two Sisters also took part in “Fall Institute,” an annual meeting of all
“It was very moving and a great honor to have the members of the International General Administration Team visit Newman University,” Carrocci said. “I’m very excited about the spirit of collaboration and the renewal of international focus among our students, faculty and staff that has come about thanks to our recent encounters with the team and other Sisters. There are tremendous possibilities opening up for both Newman and the ASC.”
Sister Sonia Pinho de Matos: The opportunities that give us and then become blessing and happiness for us are not found at a distance from us, they are found within and in front of us. They are our potentials that our God gave us as gift, as a resource for being happy and to make opportunities for others from our Infinite opportunity. . . . Therefore, to choose life is a great OPPORTUNITY to become infinite because we collaborate with Jesus in his liberating and transforming work.
The Sisters also enjoyed the visit to Newman. “The teachers are very committed to doing their best for the students, to help them find their life and make a better world,” said Sister Zeta Resch. “I feel good, very positive about the university,” added Sister Mariamma Kunnackal, “and the opportunity students have through their education to change society. Having people with the skills to work for the transformation of society is very much needed.”
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Rosemary Niedens’ personal connection with Salvation Army led to board decision
Newman University Associate Vice President of Academic Services and Student Development Rosemary Niedens has been very active with the Salvation Army since 2000. When she was asked to serve as Chair of the Advisory Board Council, she was honored, but wanted to be sure it was the right job for her. Niedens came to the organization because she was recommended by former Newman University President Tarcisia Roths, ASC., who served on the Advisory Board Council until 2000. Niedens knew that accepting the Chair position was a three-year commitment – one year as board Vice Chair, one as Chair, and one as Past Chair. She ultimately decided to accept the appointment, in large part because of two personal connections with the organization and its mission. “When I was talking to my mom and dad about doing it, my dad told a story about when he was in World War II and the kindness the Salvation Army had shown him and all the troops many times,” Niedens said. “He said he always remembered them giving them coffee and donuts when they were on trains moving from here to there. He said ‘Rosemary, I would be so proud if you worked for the Salvation Army because they are such good people. They care so much about the people they serve.’” Niedens said her family has always been very involved in service. 18
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Kati Bush ’16
Features
“The last service my dad did before he passed away was for the Salvation Army,” she said. “He rang bells the Christmas before he passed away. He was always so happy to ring bells.” The Advisory Board oversees major planning and administration of Salvation Army activities in Wichita. The board develops goals and creates a strategic plan to achieve them. As Chair, Niedens leads meetings, develops consensus and plays a part in ceremonial events. She estimates that it takes roughly 15 hours per month. “[The position] is very enjoyable in many ways,” she said. “Is it more enjoyable than ringing bells, or handing out toys to a little kid at Christmas distribution, or helping with a homeless person, or of 101 other things that they do? I don’t know if it’s more fun but you feel like you’re helping make these other things happen.”
Associate Vice President for Academic Services and Student Development Rosemary Niedens in her office in Sacred Heart Hall.
Niedens said because of her personal connection to the Salvation Army through her father, her love of the organization, and the university, accepting the post was actually an easy decision.
“They talk in their mission about meeting human need where it exists without discrimination. It doesn’t make a difference who it is; if somebody is in need, you have to try to meet that need. That’s very consistent with the core values and the foundational identity documents of Newman, and very consistent with the mission of the Sisters: Over the years, the Newman community being a compassionate companion, walking together with people in need, and has worked closely with the Salvation Army. Among other things, Newman has always being there for the outcast and sent a large group of volunteers to help with marginalized.” the Christmas distribution for more than 25 years. Niedens said she consistently strives –Kati Bush ’16 to maintain a strong relationship between Newman and the Army. Over the past 14 years, Niedens has been a part of the organization’s Nominating Committee, Youth Advisory Council, Executive Committee and Christmas Committee. She was also one of the founders of the Program and Services Committee, of which she is also chair, and served as a bell ringer.
Features
Two dozen-plus Spring 2014 grads accepted to medical, professional schools A total of 25 Newman University Spring 2014 graduates who were members of the Newman University Medical Professions Club (NUMPC) were accepted into medical schools and other professional graduate programs across the country. The Medical Professions Club was created to help students prepare for various graduate programs such as medicine, physical therapy, pharmacy, veterinary medicine and dentistry.
Ken Arnold
NUMPC offers its members a variety of ways to prepare for medical school and the entrance exams, applications and interviews that come with it. In the past, NUMPC has brought in speakers, offered shadowing opportunities and set up mock interviews, which many students consider one of the most important exercises NUMPC offers. Students also receive a committee letter of recommendation.
“NUMPC really helped to solidify my decision to become a physician,” said 2014 graduate Jessica Steiner, who now attends the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. “They do so much to relieve the stress of going through the challenging pre-professional programs and lengthy application processes.” The club also creates a support system between upperclassmen and underclassmen while helping preprofessional students in the same class get to know one another. “The best part about NUMPC is that it creates a communal rather than a competitive atmosphere, encouraging students to get involved on campus and support each other as they go through these first steps,” Steiner said. NUMPC’s 2014-15 President Michael Oakes said he and Vice President Alex Beck have discussed several new projects for the current year. He said he hopes to create a service project – perhaps a mission trip to Mexico – that will eventually become a NUMPC tradition. He also hopes to keep the communal atmosphere intact by having study sessions hosted by upperclassmen for underclassmen. “It would not only benefit the students in the class, but also allow the upperclassmen to review the material as they are teaching it,” he said.
NUMPC Spring 2014 graduates accepted to professional schools or graduate programs Yvonne Afriyie, Bioengineering Washington University Jenna Clem, Immunology University of Michigan Jamie Dungan, School of Medicine University of Kansas Christina Farid, School of Medicine University of Colorado Francisco “Pancho” Fields, Biology University of Notre Dame Hadley Freeman, School of Medicine University of Kansas Dalena Hampton, School of Pharmacy University of Kansas Alison Huffman, Forensic Science Arcadia University and University of California, Davis Cliff Kissling, School of Medicine University of Kansas Katie Klausmeyer, Physical Therapy Wichita State University Suzie Kucera, Chemistry University of Notre Dame Madison Lestikow, School of Pharmacy University of Kansas Elaine Luther, School of Medicine Ross University Kat Mercer, Postbaccalaureate at the University of Kansas School of Medicine Peter Neidhart, Math Loyola University and Iowa State University Joseph Nguyen, School of Pharmacy University of Kansas Theresa Nguyen, Postbaccalaureate Creighton University School of Medicine Anna Perinchery, Molecular Biology University of Missouri Liz Peuchen, Chemistry University of Notre Dame Julie Randall, School of Pharmacy University of Colorado Alex Shaw, School of Dentistry Creighton University and Midwestern University Logan Shupe, School of Pharmacy University of Kansas Kennedi Smith, School of Pharmacy University of Kansas Kelsey Sponsel, Occupational Therapy University of Kansas Jessica Steiner, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences
–Kati Bush ’16
Jessica Steiner ’14 FALL 2014
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giving
Kati Bush ’16
Former Board Chair returns to Newman as Vice President for University Advancement
Newman University alumnus and former Board of Trustees Chairman J.V. Johnston has returned to Newman in a new capacity ‑ vice president for University Advancement. Johnston, a 1982 Kansas Newman College graduate, came to Newman on March 17 and oversees the Advancement Department, which incorporates Fundraising/Development, Alumni Relations, University Relations, and Archives. Johnston, president of the upscale men’s and ladies retail clothing store Johnston’s in Wichita, said he was looking to shift his professional focus.
of the current staff are what really provided the ability for me to step away from the store.” Johnston remains part-owner in the store along with his wife Veronica (Armendariz) Johnston, also a 1982 Newman graduate and a full-time Johnston’s employee, and long-time business partner Kevin Edmundson. The Johnstons met while attending Newman. They have four sons: Benjamin, a 2006 Newman graduate; Jacob (Jake), a 2008 Newman graduate; Isaac, a 2010 Newman graduate, and Jordan, a student at Wichita State University.
Kati Bush ’16
“I’m in my mid-50s and I’m ready for a new challenge that is mission driven,” Johnston served on the Newman Board of Johnston said. “The strength of Johnston’s Trustees from 1999 to 2011, including four and the capabilities and professionalism years as Chairman.
Theatre donors recognized
Kati Bush ’16
On May 2, Newman University recognized several major donors of the “Bringing Back Theatre” campaign with the unveiling of the “Wall of Honor” - a plaque in Performance Hall listing those who contributed substantial gifts. The theatre program was re-launched as a minor in 2011, followed by a major in 2013. Newman alumni and others helped raise funds needed to restart the program.
Kati Bush ’16
Major Donor Mickey Armstrong was accompanied to the event by The Most Rev. Eugene Gerber, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Wichita.
L-r: Vicki Bergkamp, ASC ’67, ’72, Tarcisia Roths, ASC ’48, ’54, Therese Wetta, ASC ’64 and Charlotte Rohrbach, ASC ’62 represented the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, one of the campaign’s largest donors.
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Johnnie Bell and daughter Janet (Bell) Stephen represented the Bell family. Bell’s youngest daughter, Mary Grace (Bell) Muck and her husband Fred made a major gift in honor of Johnnie’s wife and Janet and Mary Grace’s mother, the late Laurie (Champ) Bell ’46.
Elizabeth “Liz” Peuchen ‘14
“The Presidential scholarship allowed me to focus on developing as a person.” – Elizabeth “Liz” Peuchen Newman Graduate: May 2014 Major: Chemistry Minors: Math & History
Liz is currently working on her Ph.D. in analytical chemistry at the University of Notre Dame. While at Newman, Liz volunteered, ran cross country and was VP of student government. She credits Newman for her great education and says her scholarships helped her excel. Your generous gifts to the Newman Fund help students like Liz succeed. Thank you for continuing to help Newman reach out to motivated and dynamic students like Liz.
To Give To The NewmaN FuNd Go To Give.NewmaNu.edu
Kati Bush ’16
Fetterolf departure leads to new leadership in nursing, allied health
Ken Arnold
faculty and staff notes
Joe Forte led Newman library for 28 years
Library Director Joseph Forte, M.L.S. learned how to adapt quickly to new technology during his 28 years at Newman University. Among other things, he participated in the original Title III grant that provided for the automation of the library, launched the university’s first TV studio, and recorded and edited the first videotapes sent to Western Kansas. Forte also led the way through the closing of Newman’s former library building, the four-year temporary library operation in Sacred Heart Hall, and the transition to the new Dugan Library. Following these and many other accomplishments, Forte retired at the end of the Spring 2014 semester.
Ken Arnold
Read more about Joseph Forte at http://bit.ly/1tdcb9R
Associate Professor of Education and Teacher Education Program Coordinator Joan (Purkey) Pippitt, M.E. retired at the end of the Fall 2014 semester after 15 years with Newman University.
L-r: Meg Trumpp, Bernadette Fetterholf, Teresa Vetter.
She taught a wide range of education classes at Newman and worked as coordinator of professional development schools, teacher intern coordinator and university supervisor of interns.
After 22 years at Newman University, Associate Dean of Nursing and Allied Health Bernadette Fetterolf, Ph.D. has left Newman.
Before coming to Newman, she taught for 48 years in Wichita elementary schools. Read more about Joan (Purkey) Pippitt at http://bit.ly/1pVshUZ
Ken Arnold
Dan Murphy
Associate Professor of Nursing Jane Weilert, Ed.D. is now Associate Dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health. In addition, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Nursing Teresa Vetter, M.S.N. Jane Weilert and Director and Assistant Professor of Respiratory Care Meg Trumpp, M.Ed. are now Director of Nursing and Director of Allied Health programs, respectively.
Weilert came to Newman in 1981, then left in 2006 to take a job at the University of South Carolina. She returned to Newman in 2010. Vetter worked the fall 2008 semester at Newman as Pediatric Instructor of Nursing. In August 2011, she returned to Newman as an assistant professor of nursing. Trumpp has been with Newman since 1997. She began as clinical coordinator of the respiratory care program and became director in 1999. –Kati Bush ‘16
NEWMAN UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
Associate Professor and Director of Paralegal Studies John Conlee, J.D. retired at the end of the Spring 2014 semester after 10 years with Newman University. Conlee practiced law for many years with the Wichita firm Fleeson, Gooing, Coulson & Kitch, then began his teaching career, first at Butler Community College and then at Wichita State University.
Read more about John Conlee at http://bit.ly/1tdRr2H
Dan Murphy
“It’s an opportunity for professional growth that I’m not going to get again,” Fetterolf said before leaving Newman. “I will miss the people: the students, the faculty, the sisters. Some of these people I’ve known since the early 1980s. I’ll miss those relationships.”
John Conlee found satisfaction in teaching
In 2004, when WSU ended its paralegal program, Conlee worked with Professor of Sociology Larry Heck, Ph.D. and others to bring the Paralegal Studies Program to Newman.
Fetterolf is now Dean of Nursing at the Baker University School of Nursing at Stormont-Vail HealthCare, Topeka, Kan.
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Joan (Purkey) Pippitt devoted to teaching
Duncan Rose had 23-year teaching career at newman
Associate Professor of Counseling and Coordinator of the Counseling Program Duncan Rose, Ed.D. has retired from a teaching career that spanned 23 years, all at Newman University. Rose taught a variety of classes including Theories of Therapy, Ethics in the Social Services, General Psychology and Sociology of the Family. His book, Ethical Issues in the Helping Professions, is currently under review for publication. He has also published articles on counseling ethics and chemical dependency in teenagers. Read more on Duncan Rose at http://bit.ly/1rhfBf3.
faculty and staff notes
Faculty and Staff Activity and Achievements Each year, Newman faculty and staff members publish and present a variety of literary, scholarly and professional works. Here is a sample of recent activity and other achievements. Suzanne V. L. Berg, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Communication:
“Constraint of Law and Theory: Copyright in the Digital Age,” presentation at Central States Communication Association Conference, Minneapolis, Minn., April 2-6, 2014.
Vicki Bergkamp, ASC, Ph.D., Professor of Business and Chair of the Business Division:
“Broken Systems We Enjoy and Our Participation as Consumers,” presentation at Economics Study Day, Adorers of the Blood of Christ Center, Ruma Ill., April 26, 2014.
Pamela Pancake, M.F.A., Assistant Professor of Art and Graphic Design:
Two illustrations, “Make The Bed” and “Set The Table” from her upcoming children’s book My Mother’s Apron, were selected for the Hays Arts Council 45th Annual Smoky Hill Arts Exhibition, Hays, Kan., April 25 – June 7, 2014.
2014-2015 President, Kansas Society of Radiologic Technologists, KSRT Annual Convention, Newton, Kan., April 11, 2014.
Carmen Stephens, M.S., Instructor of Nursing:
“Leading to Influence Health in Faith Communities,” presentation at Faith Community Nursing Conference, Mequon, Wis., May 2014. For a complete listing of faculty/staff publications and achievements, visit http://mag.newmanu.edu/fall14-facultypub.
Cheryl L. Golden, Ph.D., Professor of Ancient History:
“The Geography of Thucydides,” chapter in Roman World Views: Institutional and Geographical, Brill: Leiden, May 2013. Casey L. McNeil, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology:
“Genetically Modified Organisms and Food,” presentation to High-Noon Masonic Lodge Group, Wichita, Kan., April 28, 2014.
Newman University welcomes new faculty and staff Faculty Richard Barrans Visiting Assistant Professor of Physics Kristi Barton Edwards Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Jessica Bird Director of Western Kansas Center, Assistant Professor of Education Sarah Evans Professor of Biology Father John Fogliasso Chaplain, Assistant Professor of Theology Jeanie Harris Assistant Professor of Nursing Amelia Havenridge Assistant Professor of Nursing Martha K. (Kris) Huntoon Instructor and Director of Sonography Cindy Louthan Assistant Professor of Education Nancy Lugo-Baez Assistant Professor of Nursing and RN to BSN Coordinator James Nolan Visiting Associate Professor of Psychology Melissa Romaneschi Instructor of Nursing Dana Rose Assistant Professor of Nursing Matthew Umbarger Assistant Professor of Theology John Walker Assistant Professor and Director of Counseling
“Set the Table,” by Pamela Pancake
Sarah Evans joins Biology faculty
Sarah Evans, Ph.D. joined the faculty at Newman University as professor of biology in the Fall 2014 semester. She is teaching biochemistry and nutrition. Evans came to Newman from Friends University, where she has worked as a biology professor since the beginning of her career. At Friends, Evans taught chemistry, biology, microbiology and nutrition courses. “When I worked at Friends, I had a lot of Newman students come over and they were good students,” Evans said. “Newman has a lot to offer.” Evans received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Riverside in 1990. She received her doctorate in biochemistry from Ohio State University in 1998, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Miami University in 1999. Evans has made a number of presentations across the Midwest and has co-authored five publications.
Administrative Assistant, School of Nursing and Allied Health Staff Accountant, Business Office Director of the Academic Resource Center Student Life Coordinator Director of Undergraduate Admissions Assistant Bowling Coach Assistant Director/Clinical Director of CRNA Program Cheer/Dance Coach Coordinator of Campus Ministry Projects Assistant Softball Coach Assistant Baseball Coach Assistant Tennis Coach Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Director of Residence Life Assistant Librarian Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach Student Life Coordinator Administrative Assistant, IT Assistant Volleyball Coach
Kati Bush ’16
Staff Tina Ast Nicole Bachman Bo Bonner Michael Brunner Kristen English Kevin Fanter Megan Ginter Brandy Hallacy Rose Healy Doris Hein Max Hutson Kevin Klein Mik Love Lucas Mullin Jeanette Parker Hugo Rayo Rebekah Schmidt Jessie Smith Rachel Walker
Megan R. Rucker B.S., Instructor and Clinical Coordinator of Radiologic Technology:
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Athletics
Neidhart is 2014 top male scholar-athlete
Newman University Sports Information Department
Newman University cross-country runner Peter Neidhart was named the 2014 Heartland Conference Male Scholar-Athlete, with a GPA of 3.95 in mathematics. He was a four-time selection to the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association All-Academic Team.
Newman athletic programs take top GPA title again Student-athletes in Newman University athletic programs achieved the highest GPA in the Heartland Conference for the fourth year in a row, and the seventh time in the past eight years. The Jets tied with Oklahoma Christian with a total GPA of 3.29 for the 2013-2014 academic year. Newman combined men’s teams took the top spot at 3.23, and the Jets had the highest GPA in the conference in four of the 13 sports: men’s cross-country; men’s tennis; women’s golf, and volleyball. Women’s golf had the highest GPA in the Heartland Conference once again at 3.72.
In his senior season Neidhart led his team to a highest total team GPA of 3.80– the top GPA in all three NCAA divisions nationwide. Neidhart was also named in the All-Heartland Conference in three of his four seasons and won a team Heartland Conference Championship. AD Vic Trilli among most influential people in sports Newman University Athletic Director Vic Trilli has been named to the Wichita Sports Hall of Fame’s Top 25 Most Influential People in Wichita Sports for 2014. Trilli, who ranked No. 16 on the list, enters his seventh season at the head of the Jets and has seen 134 NU student-athletes named to the Heartland Conference honor roll, in addition to other honors. Taylor, Anderson named to Academic All-District team Sophomore tennis player Jordan Taylor and junior golfer Kendall Anderson were named to the Academic All-District 2013-14 Women’s At-Large Team, by the College Sports Information Directors of America. Taylor, from Council Hill, Okla., earned a 4.0 GPA in science classes, and was ranked at the women’s tennis No. 1, 2, or 3 positions through the season. Anderson, from Houston, Texas, carried a 4.0 GPA in sports communications classes. She had the third-best average in the Heartland Conference at 76.3 strokes in 18 rounds. For more on these and other sports stories go to http://newmanjets.com. 24
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Join us! January 31
2015
The 2015 Newman University Athletics Hall of Fame banquet and induction ceremony is set for Jan. 31, 2015. The event will include the induction of the Class of 2015. This will be the sixth Hall of Fame class since the hall was started in 2007. More information on the event will be communicated as it becomes available.
Dan Murphy Dan Murphy
Dan Murphy
Dale Stelz
This year’s Jet Open began with an Aug. 3 kick-off party and live and silent auctions in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center attended by more than 250 people. The tournament took place the next day at Rolling Hills Country Club and drew a record 236 golfers. The event ended with an after-party and awards presentations at Emerson Biggins West in Wichita. The Jet Open raised a new record of more than $117,000.
Dale Stelz
Gladiator Dash, Jet Open make for record-breaking year of fundraising Proceeds from the 2014 Gladiator Dash and Laurie Bell Memorial 30th Annual Jet Open Charity Golf Tournament led the way to a record-breaking year of fundraising for Newman Athletics. The June 7 Gladiator Dash, created by Newman alum Dan Giroux ‘96 and Newman Athletics Club member Zack Steven, featured more than 1,100 people competing in the 5K obstacle-course/ race. The event cleared close to $70,000 to benefit the Child Advocacy Center and Newman Athletics.
Dan Murphy
athletics
Dale Stelz
Dale Stelz
For complete tournament results, visit http://news.newmanu.edu/30th-jet-open.
The winning Jet Open team pose for a photo with Newman Women’s Golf Coach Don Farquhar, center. The winning foursome included, l-r, Martin Park, Kelly Eddy, Vanessa Sawyer and David Jabara.
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Alumni Updates
Courtesy Photo
2015 Alumni Awards will be presented at Cardinal Newman Banquet, Feb. 21 From director of Alumni Relations Sarah (Kriwiel) Cundiff ’86, ’90 Four outstanding Newman University alumni will be honored with the 2015 Distinguished Alumni Awards at the Cardinal Newman Banquet and Awards Ceremony. The event will take place Feb. 21, 2015 in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center.
Dan Murphy
The award recipients, selected by the National Alumni Board of Directors, represent the best of Newman University and its predecessor institutions. Here’s a brief look at this year’s honorees.
Watch your mailbox for more information on the Cardinal Newman Banquet and Awards Ceremony.
Spirit of Acuto Award: Margaret Weilert ’61, ‘65 Honoring alumni and friends who have been a driving force, using their talent and training at critical junctures to move a vision to reality.
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Margaret Weilert, Ph.D. has devoted her life to helping others. Weilert, a graduate of Sacred Heart Academy and Sacred Heart College, has worked with hospitalized military personnel during the Vietnam War; counseled abusive adults and their abused children; was a substance abuse counselor at the Winfield Correctional Facility; created programs for abused women at the Lansing Correctional Facility; worked with the mentally ill and criminals in Kansas City, Mo.; ran a private practice, and was an adjunct psychology instructor in Alaska, and at Cowley County Community College and Newman. She retired in 2010, but continued to provide counseling to military personnel and their families. She is currently a counselor at McConnell AFB.
St. Maria De Mattias Award: Mark ’78 and Ann (Roder) ’81, ‘01 Fox Honoring alumni who have given meritorious and continuous support and stewardship to Newman University and Catholic life. Mark and Ann (Roder) Fox are deeply loyal to Newman University as shown through their ongoing service to and involvement with the university. Ann was Director of Alumni Relations from 2006 to 2011. During those years she increased athletic alumni involvement in reunions and other activities. Most recently, Mark served on the Health Sciences Committee for the 2013-2014 academic year and helped implement committee activities. Two of their children, Allison and Adrienne, graduated from Newman. Currently, Mark is retired from teaching science at Maize High School and Ann is the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity in Wichita.
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Steve Rasmussen
John Moragues
Alumni Updates
Beata Netemeyer Service Award: Sister Teresita Elna S. Oporta, FSpif, ’07 Honoring alumni who continue the spirit of service of Beata Netemeyer, ASC, as they minister with others bringing about the mission of Christ. For more than 25 years, Sister Elna Oporto has been a member of the Society of Apostolic Life, the Franciscan Sisters Pro Infant et Familia (FSpif) in Naval, Biliran, the Philippines. The mission of the FSpif is service to children, youth and families in need. Sister Elna was already doing the work of a dedicated social worker when she agreed, reluctantly, to pursue a Master of Social Work at the Newman MSW site in Colorado Springs. She proved to be an outstanding student, earning praise for her compassion and commitment providing services to high-risk, inner-city middle school girls, and low-income and homeless individuals. She has returned to the Philippines to help the very poorest in her community, particularly orphaned street children.
Leon A. McNeill Distinguished Alumni Award: Reverend Thomas A. Welk, CPPS (Honorary Alum ‘09) Honoring graduates who have achieved outstanding success in their personal lives and careers. Father Tom Welk is a former chaplain and scripture and liturgy teacher at Newman, where he also coached skiing, swimming, men’s tennis and women’s club softball. He is currently chaplain to the Adorers of the Blood of Christ in Wichita, and is Director of Professional Education at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, which he helped found in 1983. Father Welk has published many articles and made many presentations nationwide on hospice care. He was inducted into the Newman Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009, and has been a member of the Newman Board of Trustees since 2011.
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Alumni Updates
From Newman to Priesthood Some kids want to be doctors. Others want to be teachers. At age 9, Wichita native Sam Brand knew he wanted to be a priest. “The life appealed to me,” Brand said. “I loved the prayer and the self-sacrifice.” By the time Brand reached 7th grade he was absolutely convinced. His years at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School cemented his desire. He knew he needed to go to a Catholic university; he decided on Newman.
They were both good students and they enjoyed adventure. One day, Dugan and Brand decided to go hunting before math class. They knew there was a chance of snow, but they didn’t know a storm was brewing. Soon they were hiking through several inches of snow. They decided they needed to leave but realized the roads were in bad shape. “We kept calling Professor Sponsel [Assistant Professor of Mathematics Barbara Sponsel, Ph.D.] and telling her we might be late,” Dugan said. An hour later they walked into their algebra class, right on time. Brand gave several pheasant feathers to a student from Nigeria and told her to take them home to show her family. “He told her to tell her family ‘Billy the Kid and Jesse James gave them to you,’” Dugan said while laughing. “Sam loves to have fun and make friends with everybody.”
Courtesy Photo
Brand entered Newman in fall 2006. He joined the Sloppy Joes Improv Troupe, thought about majoring in history and sprang up a friendship with then-Newman Chaplain Father Joe Tatro. He also became best friends with Kurtis Dugan, another Bishop Carroll grad who, like Brand, was living at home and commuting to campus.
“He would always transform everyone around him,” Dugan said. “He would make everyone his friend.”
The Most Rev. Carl A. Kemme, Bishop of the Wichita Diocese, reads a passage during the ordination ceremony. Sam Brand is in the foreground with his back to the camera.
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Courtesy Photo
Alumni Updates
Although he loved Newman and treasured his professors and fellow students, after his freshmen year Brand set his sights on the seminary. “It was Fr. Joe Tatro who gave me the final push to enter seminary,” Brand said. “He did it indirectly.”
“The chaplain serves as a mentor, one whom young men can walk alongside and see themselves ‘in the shoes’ of this particular priest one day,” said Father Mike Simone, the director of vocations at the Catholic Diocese of Wichita and former chaplain at Newman. “The chaplain serves in a role as priest, mentor and friend.”
Courtesy Photo
Tatro showed Brand by example. Each day, he demonstrated his love of Christ, his compassion for others and his unwavering beliefs.
Many Newman students follow path to priesthood Sam Brand is hardly the first or only Newman University student to attend seminary and follow the path to priesthood.
Brand soon transferred to St. John Vianney College Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., and later to Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, Mo. In May 2014, Brand was ordained and placed as parochial vicar (associate pastor) at Church of the Magdalen in Wichita. Brand took the place of Father John Fogliasso, who moved to Newman to become the university’s chaplain and director of Campus Ministry. The two priests had attended seminary together. “Sam has always impressed me as an intelligent and charismatic individual who has all the qualities to be a remarkable priest,” Fogliasso said. “Being as personable as he is, I’m sure it will not take him long to find success in his ministry.” Brand is excited about serving all congregants from youth to the elderly.
Kyle Dugan, Kurtis Dugan’s brother, is one. Currently, seven former Newman University students are in seminary. In addition to Dugan, they are: J.D. Betzen; Adam Grelinger; Ed Herzog; ‘Nic’ Jurgenemeyer; Adam Labenz, and Tanner Martin.
“God doesn’t know any age limit,” Brand said. “A priest has to be all things for all people. It’s about God, and it’s about people.”
According to Father Mike Simone, director of vocations with the Catholic Diocese of Wichita, on average three priests are ordained each year in the Diocese of Wichita.
- Alice Mannette FALL 2014
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Alumni Updates
By Robin Allard ’14
Since her graduation in 2013, Newman University alumna Andrea Mártires has been continuing to learn ways to transform society – and expanding an already broad base of the Newman Core Value International Perspective – in Geneva, Switzerland and other places in Europe. Perhaps not surprisingly, she’s also having some fun doing it. Mártires, whose full name is Andrea Mártires Abelenda Castelli, is from Uruguay but also has Swiss influences through her step-father's side. She speaks Spanish, English, French, Italian and Portuguese. While at Newman she played on the Women’s Golf Team, worked as a legislative intern for Congressman Tim Huelskamp and for Sen. Pat Roberts in the summer of 2012, and was selected for the 2013 Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities. She graduated magna cum laude in May 2013 with majors in Sociology and Psychology (with a concentration in criminal justice) and a minor in International Studies. 30
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Following graduation she worked at Cessna Aircraft Company as a service, parts and programs intern. She also volunteered and took training for disaster relief, emergency first aid and other services with the American Red Cross. Her training qualified her to be part of the Disaster Action Team, where she was on call 12 hours a day, responding to house and apartment fires. She also was part of the Red Cross Disaster Team that responded to the Colorado floods in 2013. In early 2014, she was off to Geneva, where in February she began studying in a program at the University of Geneva called the Geneva International Students Program (GISP). The focus of the program was international relations. The classes were in English, complimented with intensive French courses. “I found it on the Internet, and when I saw it I just loved it and for some reason felt like this was my next step,” Mártires said. “There were students from all over the world in this program. It was really cool and I learned a lot.”
Model U.N. Even though the GISP and Geneva Academy classes took up much of her time and included heavy readings, Mártires made herself even busier with extracurricular activities, including takig part in the Model Untied Nations Society in Geneva, which is organized by the Geneva International Model United Nations (GIMUN). The program is a simulation of U.N. activity, with each student representing a delegation. “They taught us the rules and procedures of the U.N. – how to do a speech, how to write resolutions and make amendments of resolutions,” Mártires said. “It was just
as if we were in a conference representing a country in a certain council or committee trying to solve issues with other delegations on specific subjects.” For the entire semester, Mártires met with other members or delegations, received training and did research on current issues. Mártires worked as a delegate of South Africa discussing the subject "Responsibility to Protect.” The group met each week simulating actual U.N. activity, and passed a resolution with correspondent amendments at the end of the semester. Mártires also took part in more formal Model U.N. activities, including EuroMUN in Maastricht, the Netherlands, where she represented Chile in the U.N. Security Council, and the Model U.N. Youth Association of
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Newman alumna Andrea Mártires is living the Newman mission in Europe
Alumni Updates
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Switzerland in Bern, where she was part of the Economic and Social Council as a delegate of Russia. “We discussed new technologies and risk prevention of humanitarian crisis,” Mártires said. “It was a lot of hard work, but it was great to be part of this.” At the end of the semester, Mártires was selected for the 15th GIMUN Annual Conference held in the Palais des Nations (U.N. headquarters) in Geneva. Mártires spent a week at the U.N. as a bloc representative for the Union of South American Nations, where she supervised and helped other students in the conference and researched topics including rebuilding Haiti, and terrorism and nuclear energy, for three committees for all USAN member states. She also attended the 6th Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy.
No slowing down In June, Mártires took a three-week course in international law at the University of Geneva, and in July took a short, intensive course on Transitional Justice, Confllict, and Human Rights at The Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights. Never one to slow down, in September Mártires started an internship as a Junior Project Support at the U.N. agency the International Telecommunication Union, as part of the Integrated Event Coordination team. Mártires is working on a world telecommunications event that will take place in December in Qatar. She was also offered an internship at the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees for a semester In Washington, D.C., where she would work in the Caribbean Protection Unit of Refugees.
“I’m still deciding on that one,” she said as this magazine went to press, “as I am waiting on other offers in Geneva and Africa." She is also considering the financial difficulty of another unpaid internship, as she plans to attend graduate school in Geneva in August 2015. “I am truly grateful for the whole community at Newman,” she said.
“Newman is truly a place I will never forget and will always carry in my heart. I have a lot left to do, and I hope life lets me try to accomplish a lot more. But I know that thanks to everyone at Newman, and my mom, I am here - because the support, love and encouragement that everyone shows me is hard to find.”
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Alumni Updates
Kati Bush ’16
Commencement Spring 2014 Ceremony features honorary degree, Ablah Awards The 2014 Spring Commencement on May 10 drew a fullcapacity crowd to Central Community Church in Wichita.
The Most Rev. Eugene Gerber, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Wichita, reads the citation announcing the awarding of a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa to Kathy and Patrick O’Shaughnessy. Kati Bush ’16
In addition to presenting graduating students with their degrees, Newman officials bestowed a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa degree on Kathy and Patrick O’Shaughnessy. The O’Shaughnessys were honored for the Newman Core Value of Catholic Identity for their devotion to their faith and commitment to the Church, Catholic education and the Newman community. Commencement also featured the awarding of the 2014 Harvey J. Ablah Award to Francisco “Pancho” Fields of Newton, Kan., and the Leona J. Ablah Award to Alaina Garrett of Wichita. The awards are presented each year to a graduating male and a graduating female student who exemplify the spirit of Newman University. For more information on Commencement including more photos and video, visit: http://news.newmanu.edu/nu-celebrates-2014-grads
Francisco “Pancho” Fields and Alaina Garrett prepare to receive the Ablah Awards from Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael Austin, Ph.D., as Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. looks on.
John Moragues
Colorado Springs MSW program celebrates Spring 2014 graduates Faculty, staff and 2014 graduates of the Master of Social Work program in Colorado Springs, Colo., gathered for a graduation celebration May 21. Three faculty and staff members from the Wichita campus – Newman Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Michel Austin, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Social Work Gloria Hegge, Ph.D. and Director of Alumni Affairs Sarah Cundiff Cundiff ’86, ’90 ‑ traveled to Colorado to take part in the festivities. Thirty-two students in Colorado Springs graduated with their MSW degrees. To see more photos from the May 21 event go to https://newmanu.edu/co-springs-msw-graduates-spring-14
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Kati Bush ’16
Alumni Updates
Class of ’64 inducted into Golden Hearts Club Members of the Sacred Heart College Class of 1964 were inducted into the Golden Hearts Club during the weekend of May 9 – 11, 2014. Fifteen class members attended the Golden Hearts activities, which included a luncheon with members of the Newman Board of Trustees, campus tours and an evening trolley ride through Wichita. Those who attended the class of ‘64 reunion are, l-r, seated: Dolores (Rottinghaus) Glynn; Therese Wetta, ASC; Mary Ann (Seiwert) Winkler; Mary Ann (Hale) Youngers; Mary Margaret Orsman-Kelch; Judy (Jesko) Dennis; standing: Carmen (Schulte) May; Sherry (Schauf) Robben; Leona (Darveau) O’Reilly; Bridget (Flaherty) White; Don Yakshaw; Joyce (Tieking) Witsken; Cecilia (Reherman) Voss; Theresa (Perrier) Duran, and Mary (Hanes) McNutt.
SAVE THE DATE! Oct. 9-10, 2015
Sacred Heart Academy Class of ‘65 –50th reunion. We need your phone number, email and mailing address to send you more details. Send contact information to Patty (Bissing) Schnittker at GoPattyB@aol.com, or call 303-7599170, or to Diana (Barton) Szambecki, d.szambecki@gmail. com, 440-752-4097. Please respond by Oct. 1, 2015 – and note if you (and your spouse) are interested in attending.
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Alumni Updates
National Alumni Board welcomes four new members The Newman University National Alumni Board of Directors recently elected four new members. They are: Eric Leitzel ’10 MBA-Management Web Designer II, CCH Site Builder CCH Tax & Accounting North America Wichita, Kan.
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J.D. and Kerri (Arnold) Campbell are pictured at left following their 1986 graduation from Kansas Newman College. The Campbells, who now live in Bloomington, Ind., met in Merlini Hall as students, and re-visited the hall when they returned to Newman in August to enroll their son Christopher at the university. J.D. is currently Assistant Athletics Director for Athletic Communications at Indiana University Bloomington. Kerri is Senior Associate Director of Career Services at Indiana University School of Informatics and Computing. The Campbells have another son, Jon.
Kathy (Chervenak) Linnebur ’99, ’08 B.S., Sociology, 1999; MBAInternational Business, 2008 Director, Procurement Webster Combustion Technology Winfield, Kan. Tammy White ’10, ’12 B.S., Business Management, 2010; MBA-Leadership, 2012 Program Manager, Military/ Government Programs Textron Aviation Wichita, Kan. Chase Blasi ’16 Current Student Government Association President
Country singer ’08 Jill Martin and her husband, singer/songwriter Logan Mize, performed at an Aug. 10, 2014 reception hosted by ’87 Tad Druart in The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville. The reception was held by Abila, a software and services provider. Druart, who is Vice President of Marketing at Abila and President of the Newman National Alumni Board, invited the duo to perform after reading about Martin in the Spring 2014 Newman University Magazine. 34
NEWMAN UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
Parents of freshman ‘Legacy Students,’ scholarship recipients honored at reception
Kati Bush ’16
Alumni Updates
Parents of freshman “legacy students” - the sons and daughters of Newman alumni - and Cardinal Newman Scholarship recipients gathered in the Tarcisia Roths, ASC Alumni Center for a wine and cheese reception during student orientation activities on Aug. 22. The reception was co-hosted by the Newman Alumni Association and the Department of Academic Affairs. The parents received a warm welcome from President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D. and members of the President’s Cabinet. Sheryl Stanley, widow of the late Board of Trustees Chair Douglas Stanley
Those attending the reception included, l-r: Domenic Rizzi; Rene Rizzi; Sheryl Stanley; Dawn Booher ’14; Patti Hobson-Ayesh; Richard Ayesh; Jill Hieger; Wayne Hieger ’65; Lynn Mauk; Donna Luschen; Brenda Klausmeyer, and Jenifer (Meyer) Stone ’93.
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and mother of three alumni and one current student, shared how special the Newman community has been to her family over the past several years. Current Newman Board member and past scholarship recipient J.T. Klaus ’87 also spoke about his passion for Newman, and how the parents can be assured their sons and daughters will receive the best education, attention, and life experiences at Newman University.
Alumni team up for ‘Day at the K’ Approximately 45 Newman alumni, staff members and friends in Wichita boarded a chartered bus July 27 for “Newman Day at the K” – a day trip to Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., to watch the Kansas City Royals baseball game against the Cleveland Indians. A group of alumni and friends from the Kansas City area met up with the Wichita group at the stadium for some tailgating and socializing before the game. The event was hosted by the Alumni Association.
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Up Newman alum Rod ‘The Ageless Arm’ Tafoya is staying in the game
By Angela Howell It was in the fifth inning that the line drive came torpedoing at pitcher Rod Tafoya at 90 mph. The combacker hit him squarely on his side, fracturing a rib and smashing untold numbers of blood vessels. It hurt, but in typical Tafoya fashion, he gutted it out, staying on the mound for the rest of the Aug. 2 game. “I didn’t want the other team to think they had taken me out,” Tafoya said. His team, the Alpine Cowboys, part of the Independent Pecos League, won the game 10 to 1. He pitched a four-hitter with 11 strikeouts. 36
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Tafoya, a 1989 Kansas Newman College graduate, knows how to hold his ground. At 50, Tafoya is in his fourth decade as a professional baseball player. Last May, three days before his 50th birthday, he clinched his 300th victory, a milestone for any pitcher. In Major League Baseball, it would assure a spot in the Hall of Fame. In amateur baseball, no other pitcher is close to 200 wins. Moreover, the 300 doesn’t take into account the 94 wins Tafoya achieved in the minors and college.
executed a 139-pitch complete game over the Albuquerque Colt .45s. He led the Yankees to triumph 11-4, while racking up 12 strikeouts. The stats are part of the scorebooks now, but what many people don’t know is that under his uniform, Tafoya was wearing his lucky Newman shirt. It’s the same shirt he likes to wear during interviews and photo shoots, as a way of paying homage to his alma mater.
News of Tafoya’s 300 wins garnered widespread attention when it was written up by The Associated Press. The story quickly went viral, appearing in more The night of that historic win, Tafoya was than 70 newspapers, magazines and pitching for the Albuquerque Yankees and broadcasts, including Sports Illustrated,
Photo from the book The Ageless Arm published by Speaking Volumes
Called
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ESPN and USA Today. The City of Santa Fe, N.M., honored Tafoya with a proclamation from the mayor proclaiming it “Rod ‘The Ageless Arm’ Tafoya’s 300th Victory Day.” Whenever Tafoya is in the spotlight like this, he makes a point of bringing up Newman. “I’m indebted to the university for fueling my fire to achieve bigger and better goals in my life,” Tafoya said. “I want to give them exposure. I wouldn’t be where I am without going to Newman.”
A cornerstone That doesn’t mean that he didn’t have his doubts when he first transferred to Newman in 1985. Wichita, in the heart of the Great Plains, was vastly different from his hometown of Santa Fe, the most Southwestern of cities. Tafoya initially suffered from culture shock. He wasn’t sure if he was going to fit in. He found the presence of crosses and other displays of Catholicism in the hallways and on school materials comforting. Over time, Tafoya realized that Newman was the perfect setting for him.
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“Newman reinforced the lifestyle and the work ethic that I
needed,” Tafoya said. “I got faith back in my heart while I was there. It became the cornerstone of my life.” His introduction to baseball came much earlier, from his first coach, his older brother Jack. When Tafoya was growing up, his care often fell to his 15-year-old baseball-obsessed brother. Jack decided he would turn Tafoya into a baseball phenom. Jack tied his brother’s right arm behind him to teach him to throw lefty, knowing that southpaws often have more career longevity than right-handed pitchers. Tafoya remembers spending hours throwing pitches to his brother off a homemade mound in their backyard. Newman Baseball Coach Paul Sanagorski was slightly more intimidating. When Tafoya arrived at Newman, Sanagorski was already a coaching legend, who had built Newman into a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics powerhouse. “He was an inspiration and a pleasure to play for but he was tough in his own way,” Tafoya said. “He pushed the scholastic side. He was invested in the players, on and off the field.” Tafoya achieved a 6-2 record and 86 strikeouts – then a school record – at Newman. When he finished his fourth year of eligibility, he left to play in the pro Mexican leagues. Tafoya’s parents were divided about the move. His mother encouraged him to go. “Mom told me, ‘You need to go play baseball. I know that’s your passion.’” Tafoya said. His father, however, wanted him to get a degree so he could have a career. “My dad didn’t understand baseball, but he understood hard work and commitment,” Tafoya said. “I learned the value of hard work from him and passion from my mom. Combine that with the strength I get from God, and I was bound to have a successful life.”
70,000 pitches Much to his father’s delight, Tafoya returned to Newman to finish his degree in business management in 1989. That has led him to his day job: bank vice president at Bank of the West in Albuquerque. Tafoya has a roomful of souvenirs and keepsakes from his career. 38
NEWMAN UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
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bought in 1951 and in which they raised their five children. He attends the same church in which he grew up. He leads student athletes through batting practice at the same Santa Fe high school where he played. To Tafoya, it’s all part of giving back to the community that cheered him on through the years. Tafoya has a room in his house full of museum-worthy baseball collectibles, including a baseball from every one of his winning games, but he doesn’t like to dwell too long in the room. “It’s kind of like pitching: You’re always looking to your next game, not looking back at your last,” Tafoya said. “I love the history, but what really grabs me is living today and what can happen tomorrow.” This is why Tafoya dismissed the suggestions of well-meaning friends that he use the downtime recovering from his recent injury as a chance to take a break and relax.
“I get to be Clark Kent,” Tafoya said. “I wear a suit to my job and then take it off at night to put on my baseball uniform.” Tafoya uses his vacation time to travel to tournaments. In addition to his regular team, he picks up spot starts on 11 other teams, playing 10 months out of the year.
his fastball still hits 86 mph. This has earned him the moniker “The Ageless Arm,” which is also the name of Tafoya’s 2012 autobiography.
What holds everything together is faith, Tafoya said. When his mother died of cancer three years ago, he promised her that he would always maintain his faith. Later, he found a stack of her prayers, Tafoya’s record number of victories pitching in U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico which he treasures. During his hour-long leagues includes five career no-hitters and drive to work every morning, he says the rosary. one perfect game. He has played on 87 different teams in his career, amassing 23 championships – 14 state, eight national, and one professional.
giving back
He has thrown more than 70,000 pitches, never needing arm surgery, and
Both of his parents have passed away, and he now lives in the house that they
Not a chance. He was on the road a few days later making the seven-hour drive to support his teammates at the championship games. “The idea of taking a break makes me edgy,” Tafoya said. “People ask me when I’m going to retire. Why would I retire from something I love?” Tafoya is now writing a book, Inside the Core: The Passion Lives On, a follow-up to his autobiography. It is scheduled to be released in time for the 2015 baseball season, when Tafoya will again be playing with the Alpine Cowboys. “I’m shooting for 400 now,” Tafoya said. “I want to be out of reach for the next guy who’s chasing me, if there’s anyone crazy enough to chase me!”
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Class notes
Marriages ’07 Tara Zabawa and Scott Stecklein, on June 7, 2014. Tara is a Physician Assistant at Family Medicine Associates in Lawrence, Kan. They are living in Topeka, Kan. ’08 Jonathan Baalman and Navani Espinboza, on Jan. 4, 2014. ’08 Caleb Fine and Jackie Hunden, on April 12, 2014. Caleb is a business teacher and the head boy’s basketball coach for Park City (Utah) High School. Jackie also teaches at the high school. ’09 Jordan Thayer and Monica Johnson, on Aug. 9, 2014. ’10, ’12 Bridget Boyum and Austin Campbell, on May 24, 2014. ’11 Allison Fox and Blake Scott, on June 14, 2014. ’12 Nathan Nece and ’13 Megan Ranney, in December 2012. Nathan works at Beechcraft as an accountant.
Baby Jets Born to Murray and ’03 Josie (Loewen) Dean, a son, Max Albrook, on Jan 13, 2014 Born to ’07 Ashley (Brooks) and Aaron Hilding, a daughter, Quinn, in April 2014. Ashlee is the daughter of ’00 Wes and Admissions Processing Manager Patty Brooks, and the twin sister of ‘07 Rachel (Brooks) Ely. Born to ’02 Renee (Soukup) and Adam Hein, a daughter, Rachael Anne, on July 27, 2014. Born to ’08 Gina (Albert) and Patrick Fahrenbruch, a son, Alexander Joseph, on April 10, 2014.
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Born to ’10 Sarah (Hughes) and Mark Lynch, a daughter, Chloe, on April 20, 2013.
Class Notes ’71 Patrick Roths of Lafayette, La., has retired from his job as a helicopter pilot with PHI Inc. in Lafayette. ’72 Barbara Shea of Nags Head, N.C., left retirement to become a hospice medical social worker for the Dare County Health Department’s Home Health and Hospice. ’77 Donald Bittner, M.D. was honored by the University of California-Irvine School of Medicine as Teacher of the Year for the school’s Department of Plastic Surgery on June 21. Newman University awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa degree to Bittner in 2013. ’77 Linda Snook Davison, Newman University Board of Trustees Chair, is among the 20 women selected for the 2014 Wichita Business Journal’s “Women in Business.” The program recognizes Wichitaarea businesswomen who excel as entrepreneurs, upper-level executives or partners in their organizations. Snook is president of Seeders, Inc. ’80 Jim Graham, Ed.D. is Vice-Provost of Technology / CIO at the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Mo. ’86 Isa Alvarez De Mora from Barquisimeto, Venezuela, visited the Newman campus Aug. 18 with her daughter, Grazia. Isa has a Ph.D. in microbiology from Syracuse University and is a professor at the Universidad Yacambu in Barquisimeto. She is also founder and director of a clinic that serves the poor.
’86 Tony Schountz, Ph.D. is now an Associate Professor at Colorado State University researching the MUIR virus among other projects in the Arthropod-borne and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.
at GraceMed Health Clinic in Wichita.
’88 Jeromy Swearington has been named Assistant Principal at Derby (Kan.) High School.
’01 Michael Roth has been named Superintendent of the Leavenworth, Kan., public school district after serving as Superintendent of the Clearwater, Kan., district for eight years.
’89, ’11 Shelly Bole, MTS is now the Director of Catechesis for the Catholic Diocese of Shreveport, La. ’89 June Huie is Director of Information Technology at the law firm Fleeson, Gooing, Coulson & Kitch, Wichita. ’89 Dan Johnson is the Campus Director for the University of Phoenix program in St. Louis, Mo. ’92 Denise Bandemer is Marketing Director for Serpro of Northwest Wichita. ’94 Mary Miller is a middle school math teacher for USD 259 in Wichita. ’96 Debbie Tomlinson was featured in a Feb. 2, 2014 Great Bend Tribune story, “Tragedy to Triumph,” that told of her personal journey from GED in 1976 to doctorate in nursing in 2010. Debbie earned a BSN from Newman. ’99 Robert Reed is the new Superintendent for USD 332 school district in Cunningham, Kan. ’00 Rachel Wannamaker is an instructor in the Education Department at Sterling College. ’00 Jamie Woo Page, M.D., spouse of ’00 Seth Page, M.D., was named one of the “40 Under 40” by the Wichita Business Journal. She is currently Clinical Director of Pediatrics
’01 Melissa Klepinger and ’05 Jolinda Kelley were two of the five “Health Care Heroes” for community outreach and nursing named by the Wichita Business Journal. Melissa is currently a senior at Newman working on a BSN.
’03 Philippian Mitchell is a Certified Medical Technician who is the Patient Service Rep. III Psychiatry for the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Tulsa, Okla. His spouse is ’04 Cassaundra (Tyler) Mitchell. ’04 Jennifer LePont-Fowler is a Doctor of Nursing practice student in Psych/Mental Health at Wichita State University. ’04, ’05 Sapna Shah-Haque, M.D. is an internal medicine physician who recently began practice in Winfield, Kan., and with William Newton Hospital. She was featured in a Feb. 22, 2014 article in the Winfield Daily Courier. ’05 Rick Banis owns a franchise Kickboxing Fitness Gym in North Asheville, N.C. ’05 Michael Scheve, D.O., recently completed the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita Family Medicine Residency Program at Via Christi Health in Wichita. ’05, ’07 Yelando WilcoxsonJohnson is now an adjunct professor in the Newman School of Social Work. ’06 Braden Foster, D.O. recently completed the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita Family
class notes
’07 Michael Shahan M.D. is completing his residency in family practice in Lincoln, Neb., and will receive his new assignment as a doctor in the Air Force in December. ’08 Susie Jacques is Program Coordinator for the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences at Wichita State University. Her husband is ’09 Lin Jacques. ’08 Andre Marshall, Sierra Vista, Ariz., is Team Chief for the 416th Civil Affairs Battalion of the U.S. Army. ’08 Amanda Stanley Marshall graduated from the University of Kansas School Of Law in May 2014. ’08 Holly Stein is a Registered Nurse at Via Christi-St. Francis in Wichita. ’08 Jason Streit, Ph.D. graduated from Rice University (Houston) in May 2014 with his doctorate in chemistry. He accepted a position as Research Chemist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Gaithersburg, Md. ’08 Katie (Valliere) Streit is pursuing a doctorate in history at the University of Houston. She is currently doing dissertation research in Tanzania and learning Swahili. She will stay with the ASC sisters for two weeks while in Tanzania. ’09 Abayomi Oke is an Implementation Consultant for AIG Company in Houston, Texas. ’09 Drew Spencer is an IT manager for the MAWD Pathology Group in the Kansas City area.
’10 Joseph Baalmann, ’10 Jeff Cotter, ’10 Logan Gibson, ’10 Isaac Johnston, ’10 Phong Le, ’10 Amanda (Engels) Miller, ’10 Kyle Miller and ’10 Barbara Nguyen graduated from the University Of Kansas School of Medicine on May 14, 2014. ’11 Leasha Strang is a Licensed Master Social Worker who serves as an outpatient clinician at the Central Kansas Medical Center in Salina, Kan. She is a member of the Newman National Alumni Board. ’12 Lynette Hofer is an Occupational Therapy Assistant at HealthSouth Wesley Rehabilitation Hospital, Wichita.
the Kansas Department for Children and Families, Wichita.
’72 Laurence Joseph White, Sr., on May 26, 2014.
’13 Sandy McCune is a nurse in Portland, Ore.
Edith Alfaro Resa, mother of ’78 Pedro Resa and sister of ’50 Angelita Alfaro, ASC, on July 4, 2014.
’13 Kimberly O’Banion is now living in Parsons, Kan. ’14 Lauren Baker has been accepted into the Washburn University School of Law. ’14 Brittany English is a photographer and designer with Baseline Creative, Wichita. ’14 Whitney Ferguson is Front Office Manager, Revenue Management at the Wyndham Garden Hotel Downtown Wichita.
’14 Alaina Garrett has been accepted into the master’s degree program at Texas A&M ’12 Sarah Long is an ICU Registered Nurse at Hutchinson University. Regional Medical Center. ’14 Kristin Martin is Education Director for the ’13 Calvin Easter is in proposal development for Linde Museum of World Treasurers, Wichita. Process Plants, LLC, Tulsa, Okla. ’14 Alexander Prine has been accepted into a Ph.D. program ’13 Kristi Ferguson Ruge is in sociology at Baylor University, an admissions counselor with Waco, Texas. Dynamic Educational Systems, Inc. (Job Corps), in Boise, David Shubert, Ph.D. Idaho. (Hon), Professor of Chemistry at Newman, was one of the ’13 Jeremy Gant, who had a “Health Care Heros” for heart transplant in October educators honored by the 2011, has written a book Wichita Business Journal. chronicling his surgery. Win the Fight has been published by Xulon Press. Jeremy will complete his MBA at Newman Obituaries in December 2014. ’62 Joyce Ann Blick Dugan, on Aug. 11, 2014. ’13 Megan Ranney Nece is a temporary accounting assistant at Cargill. She is also the author Paul Wetta, brother of ’64 Therese Wetta, ASC, ’75 of a children’s historical fiction Joanne Moore, ’80 Eileen book, The Necklace Did What? Murry and ’80 Janet (Mysteries Throughout History) Brandes, on April 6, 2014. Volume 1, that is available at Amazon.com. Clarence “Chuck” Peters, father of ’66 Mary Ann and Jean ’13 Daniel Martin is an Macias honorary alumna, on Independent Living/National June 7, 2014. Jean’s husband, ’74 Youth in Transition Database Archie, is Vice Chair for the Program Consultant for Newman Board of Trustees.
’81 Steve Rau, on July 21, 2014. ’81 Marilyn Janeen White, on July 17, 2014. ’85 John Simbeck, on Feb. 23, 2014. Leon J. Setter, father of ’86 Melvin, on July 9, 2014. Andy Chervenak, father of ’87 Kathy Linnebur, on May 27, 2014. Donato Alonzo, father of ’88 Donette Alonzo, on July 22, 2014. Her mother Louisa died on June 8, 2014. ’09 Aaron McKinney, on July 16, 2014. Ron Shipley, former director and associate professor of the Newman University Radiologic Technology program, passed away Friday, July 25, at age 61 after a long battle with kidney cancer. He joined Newman in 1995 and retired in August 2013. Read more at http:// news. newmanu. edu/ronshipley-leaves-behind-legacy.
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Medicine Residency Program at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita.
For more class notes, visit www.newmanu.edu/alumni
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non-profit org. u.s. postage
paid
wichita, ks permit no. 458
Kait Bush ’16
Alumni Office 3100 McCormick Wichita, KS 67213-2097 www.newmanu.edu
Dan Murphy
Nick Dondlinger ’73 volunteered his labor and materials to create a stone facing around the pedestal of the St. Joseph statue that stands near the Dresselhaus Patio on the west side of Sacred Heart Hall. Dondlinger is Vice President at Dondlinger Construction Co., Inc.