Alumna Jamie Harrison ‘03, chief growth officer at Meritrust Credit Union, and Vanessa Rials, instructor of social work and director of field education at Newman, accept the Make a Difference award on behalf of Newman University.

Filling the need in education for Kansans

Alumna Jamie Harrison ‘03, chief growth officer at Meritrust Credit Union, and Vanessa Rials, instructor of social work and director of field education at Newman, accept the Make a Difference award on behalf of Newman University.
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Cutting-edge programs

Newman University has educated thousands of students since its inception nearly a century ago. As technology continually evolves and creates new job demands, Newman is dedicated to filling the needs of present and future generations through an ever-evolving education.

In the academic year of 2023-24, Newman developed and implemented 10 new programs. Undergraduate majors in agribusiness, computer science, digital design and adult and professional studies were added, along with graduate degrees in biomedical science, data science, online social work, education and a customizable business administration program. In addition to its expanded academic programs, Newman’s certificate in artificial intelligence has been approved and ready to accept students.

On the horizon, Newman will consider new interdisciplinary, personalized education options so students can tailor their experiences to their exact passions and career paths, such as with the pilot Newman Pathmaker program.

Academics is just one element of educating Kansans to the fullest

In 2024, Newman University became the first in the city recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education, meaning at least 25% of its undergraduate students are Latino. Newman’s identity as an HSI is shaping its curriculum, policies, opportunities, understanding of the world and mission.

“Our focus is not only to be a Hispanic-enrolling institution but also more importantly to be known as a university that serves its students well, including those on our campus who represent marginalized groups, such as Hispanic, African American, Asian and Native American students,” President Kathleen S. Jagger, Ph.D., MPH, said.

President Kathleen Jagger, Ph.D.

Because it is a private university, some may consider Newman a school for the affluent or elite, but that’s not the case when looking at its demographics. The university prides itself on providing an excellent education for all students, including giving at-risk populations and students of lower socioeconomic backgrounds as much opportunity to excel.

“Following the example of Newman’s sponsors, the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, we believe a college education is a life-changing pursuit that should be available to all,” Jagger said.

Vice President of Enrollment Management Michael Probus and his team are committed to shaping the university’s enrollment strategy while fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus environment for all students — present and future.

Michael Probus

“It is evident that Newman is a place where academic excellence and community thrive hand in hand,” Probus said. “With a commitment to student success, I’m confident we can make a meaningful and lasting impact at Newman.”

Newman won the 2023 “Make a Difference” award by the Kansas Hispanic Education Foundation for providing more than 30 scholarships for Hispanic students in addition to a $7,000-plus gift supporting the organization’s initiatives.

Interim Director of Financial Aid Kara Schwinn explained that Newman is steadfast in its dedication to supporting students across all programs by offering a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including academic scholarships, talent awards, service awards and need-based grants.

Kara Schwinn

“Our Financial Aid Office also provides guidance and assistance to students eligible to complete the FAFSA to help ensure all students get the best possible financial aid opportunities,” Schwinn said.