The Newman Bond

On this episode of The Newman Bond, Emily Stuart, MSW Program and Grant Coordinator, introduces the concept of environmental social work, explaining how it connects environmental issues with social justice and disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. She highlights local examples in Wichita, including pollution, lack of green space, and a historic chemical spill, to show how environmen...

This panel features international students from the countries of Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Ghana sharing their personal journeys, academic goals, and cultural backgrounds while studying abroad. They highlight core African values such as respect for elders, strong family ties, hospitality, and the unifying power of festivals, music, and food across diverse tribes and regions. The conversation also expl...

On this episode of The Newman Bond, students reflect on their 2025 Europe by rail journey, sharing how exploring new cultures, navigating unfamiliar places, and building friendships pushed them outside their comfort zones. From unforgettable moments like live theater, mountain views, and historic churches to challenges like budgeting and independence, the trip became a powerful experience of perso...

Former Newman men's head basketball coach Mark Potter reflects on his journey from student-athlete to rebuilding the university’s men’s basketball program and creating a culture of toughness and teamwork. He also shares the deeply personal story of his battle with anxiety and depression in 2005, and how opening up about his struggles changed his life. Today, Potter and his wife travel the coun...

In this episode of *The Newman Bond*, Newman University alum C.J. Campbell shares his journey from student-athlete to Graphic Design Coordinator for the Detroit Lions and the National Football League. C.J. reflects on how his time at Newman University, mentorship from influential professors, and his experience as a walk-on baseball player helped shape his discipline, creativity, and faith-driven m...

This episode of *The Newman Bond* features Andrew Meyer and Cameron Schroder from Newman University discussing their experiences in history and how the past shapes the university’s identity today. They share personal insights on teaching, learning, and why understanding history matters for students and the broader community. The conversation highlights how Newman’s mission and traditions continue...

Dr. Matt Muller explores the life and legacy of St. John Henry Newman, highlighting how Newman’s pursuit of truth led him from Anglicanism to Catholicism and ultimately to being named a Doctor of the Church. He explains Newman’s lasting influence on education, showing how faith, reason, and personal mission must be integrated rather than separated. The talk demonstrates why Newman’s ideas remain e...

Rachel Cheek, a Newman University faculty award winner, shares her journey from emergency and women’s healthcare into teaching, emphasizing trust, transparency, and creating safe learning environments for students. She reflects on how her real-world nursing and midwifery experience shapes her passion for educating future healthcare professionals. Throughout the interview, she underscores why women...

In this episode of The Newman Bond, Cory Buchanan interviews Dr. Matthew Umbarger about his book *A Table in the Presence of My Enemies* and the deeper meaning behind Psalm 23. Dr. Umbarger explains how ancient Near Eastern covenant and pre-battle banquet traditions illuminate the Psalm’s imagery and enrich our understanding of Scripture. Their conversation also explores how these insights connect...

In this episode of The Newman Bond, Wendy Glick shares how she went from running roller-skating rinks to leading major nonprofits and becoming a successful fundraiser. She talks about the power of storytelling, patience, and passion in building relationships with donors and making a real difference in the community. Wendy’s journey shows that fundraising isn’t just about money — it’s about connect...

Dr. John Brungardt, assistant professor of philosophy at Newman University, shares his journey into philosophy and discusses his book *Natural Philosophy: An Introduction* for the *Encyclopedia of Catholic Theology*. He explains how natural philosophy bridges classical thought and modern science while playing a vital role in forming seminarians and students for deeper theological study. The conver...

Dr. Marguerite Regan, Director of Newman University’s Center for Teaching & Learning, shares how the CTL helps professors grow through workshops, peer observation, and reflection. She explains how creating a safe, supportive space for teachers leads to better teaching and stronger student outcomes. This episode shows how investing in teachers ultimately benefits every student’s learning experi...

This episode of The Newman Bond explores the ASC Associate Program with Lori Benge and Dr. Matthew Umbarger. They share how the program began, what it means to be an associate, and how anyone can join in living out compassion, reconciliation, and love in their daily lives. Viewers are encouraged to see the program as an invitation to deepen their faith and bring spirituality into family, work, and...

Kenyon Spears, Newman University’s new Athletic Director, joins this crossover episode of The Newman Bond / AfterBurners, for a spicy 10-wing, 10-question challenge. He shares stories about growing up in small-town Texas, playing and coaching college basketball, and why he’s excited to lead Newman’s athletics program. This fun and fiery interview shows his passion for teamwork, student-athletes, a...

The Navigator Program at Newman University helps students succeed from their first year through graduation with personalized support, career preparation, and mentorship opportunities. In this episode, Lawna Kurtyka, Director of the Navigator Program, explains how the four-step program builds confidence, purpose, and skills for life after college.

In this episode of *The Newman Bond*, Coach David Akao talks about how he started lifting weights at age 12 in his mom’s basement and turned his love for sports and fitness into a career. He now helps athletes of all ages—from little kids to college students—get stronger, faster, and more confident. He shares how lifting weights helped him believe in himself and how he wants to do the same for oth...

In this episode of The Newman Bond, hosted by Campus Activities Board chair, Travia Smith (The Bahamas), we sat down with fellow international students, Ani Zeikidze (Georgia) and Dana Issabayeva (Kazakhstan), to talk about their experience moving to the U.S. They shared how hard it was at first to speak English and adjust to a new culture, but they helped each other and made great friends. They n...

Celebrate Father’s Day with the Newman Bond Podcast as students share heartfelt stories, life lessons, and funny dad jokes about their dads. Join us for a touching and joyful tribute to the amazing fathers in our community!

Emma Taylor shares her inspiring journey of graduating from Newman University in just two years while excelling in academics, sports, service, and leadership. Discover how her passion for finance and community shaped a unique college experience.

Celebrate Mother's Day with heartfelt messages from Newman University students as they share how their moms have shaped their lives. From love and support to favorite meals and life lessons, this tribute honors the incredible bond between mothers and their children.

L=earn how Newman University’s Reading Specialist program with a dyslexia emphasis is changing the game for teachers and students. Hear from experts Amy Taylor and Jane Hayes about structured literacy and the impact of R.E.A.D. Redefined.

On this episode of The Newman Bond, join Alberto Romano, a soccer player from Mexico and senior at Newman University, as he shares his journey from adjusting to life in Kansas to balancing sports and academics - and stick around to the end as we finish things off with some rapid fire questions on the pitch!

On this episode of The Newman Bond, Digital Community Specialist, Jack Schafer, walks you through how to use the One Button Studio at Newman Library for easy video recordings, perfect for presentations and projects. Watch this tutorial to get started in just a few simple steps.

Everyone's familiar with the concept of Giving Tuesday but have you heard of Newman University's annual Giving Day? Here's a chance to get the inside scoop on what Giving Day is, how it started, and why it's important.

On this episode of The Newman Bond, join Ali Mounir, a tennis player from Egypt and senior at Newman University, as he shares his journey from adjusting to life in Kansas to balancing sports and academics. Learn about his tennis memories, favorite players, and future plans after graduation!