Newman University Legacy Banquet

The newly named Newman Legacy Awards Banquet combines what had been separate events to recognize three distinguished honors: the four annual alumni award winners, generous donors as they join giving societies and the prestigious St. Newman Medal recipient.

St. Maria De Mattias Award

Alumna Karen Flanigan was presented with the St. Maria De Mattias Award, which honors alumni who display a deep loyalty to Newman and its mission. Flanigan organizes annual Sacred Heart Academy birthday celebrations for her graduating high school class on campus and continues to “cheerlead” for Newman in any way she can.

Beata Netemeyer Service Award

Kristopher Gupilan, a 2008 criminal justice graduate, proudly serves the Wichita Police Department and was recognized as the 2024 Beata Netemeyer Service Award recipient. Gupilan said he feels blessed and honored to spread the gospel and help people at their lowest through his day-to-day work as an officer.

Leon A. McNeill Achievement Award

Marilyn Roberts was recognized with the Leon A. McNeill Achievement Award, which honors graduates who have achieved outstanding success in their personal lives and careers and have enriched the church spiritually. Roberts’ favorite aspect as a medical social worker is helping dialysis patients overcome anxiety and depression, as well as advocating for others.

Spirit of Acuto Award

The Spirit of Acuto Award was given to Amanda Stanley, a 2008 graduate who overcame a cancerous leg amputation as a medical school student, made a 180-degree turn to attend law school and now fearlessly advocates for her clients as the city attorney for Topeka, Kansas.