Newman University moves to single spring commencement

Newman University’s commencement traditions are about to change. Beginning this May, the university will hold a spring commencement ceremony only at the end of the semester.

Newman decided to join other private colleges and universities in Kansas by having only one commencement at the end of each academic year.

According to Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael Austin, Ph.D., the change “will allow us to hold Baccalaureate Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, where there will be room for graduates, their families, faculty and staff.”

Austin added that Newman officials will move commencement to Wichita’s Century II Center, which will also provide more room for all. The move will also save time for Newman faculty and staff who work for weeks to produce a commencement ceremony.

Newman will hold a reception in December for students finishing their degrees in the fall. Those graduates will receive their degrees by mail after being certified by the Registrar.

– Robin Allard ‘14