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.

“I’m in my mid-50s and I’m ready for a new challenge that is mission driven,” Johnston said. “The strength of Johnston’s and the capabilities and professionalism 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.

Johnston served on the Newman Board of Trustees from 1999 to 2011, including four years as Chairman.