NU Athletics

Newman University to boost athletic facilities with new fundraising

Fall 2024 | Section: NU Athletics
By Clark Schafer
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Newman University announced an ambitious plan this past spring to modernize its outdoor athletic facilities, launching a dedicated task force to lead a major fundraising effort. The initiative, titled “Continuing Maria’s Mission: The Next 90 Years Begin With A Champion Like You,” focuses on installing artificial turf and advanced lighting systems for the university’s baseball, soccer and softball venues.

The upgrades are designed to enhance both the athletic and academic experiences of student-athletes by reducing weather-related cancellations and providing more consistent training opportunities.

Director of Athletics Joanna Pryor emphasized the potential impact of these upgrades: “By modernizing these facilities, we not only boost our competitiveness in the MIAA conference but also open up new revenue streams by renting out these state-of-the-art venues to the broader Wichita community during offseasons.”

Newman baseball pitcher
Newman baseball pitcher
A Newman softball player tags out a member of the opposite team during a slide to first base.
A Newman softball player tags out a member of the opposite team during a slide to first base.

Led by prominent alumni, the task force members are Ginny Wylie, Jay Holmes, Cyle Barnwell, Justin and Krystal Crumley, Adam Hunter, Dan Carsey and Chris Clawson. Their collective expertise and dedication to the university’s athletic programs will be crucial in driving the fundraising efforts forward.

As the university reaches out to alumni and community partners for support, Vice President of Institutional Advancement Bob Beumer emphasized the lasting impact of this project: “Investing in these upgrades is not just about enhancing facilities; it’s about creating a legacy of excellence and opportunity for future Newman athletes.”

With these planned improvements, Newman University aims to energize its athletic events, boost fan experiences, and strengthen its position within the MIAA conference.

In addition to the task force, Newman announced the hiring of Samuel Hersh as its new senior development officer for athletics. He is a baseball alumnus who will also play an important role in the fundraising initiative. Hersh comes to Newman from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Members of the women's soccer team pose for a photo.
Members of the women’s soccer team pose for a photo.