Alumna provides meaningful mentorship as a spiritual companion

Ginny Wylie ’93 didn’t think twice before reaching into the Arkansas River to save a man’s life. That moment, like many others in her 21-year law enforcement career, cemented her as someone who consistently goes beyond the call of duty.

Now retired, the sociology graduate’s mission of service continues at her alma mater. As a former student-athlete in Newman’s inaugural women’s soccer team in 1989, she serves today as the squad’s spiritual companion.

Newman launched the spiritual companion program in 2021 to connect each athletics team, club and student organization with alumni, staff and faculty members. Spiritual companions pray for and offer support to their students throughout the semester.

“Ginny has been excellent for our women’s soccer program and goes above and beyond for any of our players,” said head coach Dylan Gruntzel. “She helps them with everything from finding internships and jobs to helping one buy a car. She provides snacks as well.”

Wylie makes it a point to mentor the athletes whenever she can. She helps them navigate everything from homesickness to future careers.

“I always told the girls I coached, ‘I want you to be great soccer players, but it’s more important to be great human beings,’” Wylie said.

As a spiritual companion, Wylie organizes monthly volunteer outings to Shepherd’s Heart Food Pantry. The sessions also double as an opportunity for her to check in with the athletes.

Senior Morgan Todd of Colorado remembers how quickly Wylie helped her feel at home.

“She’s at all of our home games and even told my parents that she’s going to look after us girls, which meant a lot for them to hear,” Todd said. “She’s one of the most supportive people on campus.”

Emma Lintecum, a junior pre-veterinary major, described Wylie as “an amazing resource.”

“She’s connected me with vet shadow placements and even service hours with the Wichita Animal Action League,” Lintecum said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without Ginny.”

Wylie will always be grateful for her Newman professors — particularly Larry Heck, Sister Carmelita Blick and Sister Charlotte Rohrbach — and the emphasis on faith that helped her grow as a person.

“Thirty-six years later, the people I met at Newman are still my best friends,” Wylie said. “Serving as a spiritual companion makes me feel like I’m serving my purpose. It makes me feel young again.”