Newman University hosted its traditional scholarship luncheon on Tuesday, March 19, in the Dugan-Gorges Conference Center. The occasion served as an opportunity to show appreciation to donors for their kindness in funding scholarships for Newman students.
President Kathleen S. Jagger welcomed guests to the event.
“Newman couldn’t be who we are without our students, and you (scholarship donors) make it possible for many students to afford a Newman University education,” Jagger said.
Jagger noted that all of the students at the event — and most who attend Newman as a whole — receive financial aid.
“The price of our tuition is significantly discounted because of these scholarships,” Jagger said. “The ASC sisters founded Sacred Heart, now Newman University, many years ago to make a higher education available to people who otherwise would not get that opportunity. We’re still in that mindset today.”
She thanked donors for helping make Newman’s Catholic values-based education possible for the university’s students.
Establishing a legacy, bettering students’ lives through giving
Additionally, the luncheon featured speakers who shared their personal stories and the impact of scholarships on their lives. Angie McCoy, assistant dean of the School of Business, spoke about the Glenna Jean Weir Elementary Education Scholarship that her family started in honor of her mother.
In her remarks, McCoy shared a message to future educators at the luncheon, “Remember that teaching is not just a profession. It’s a calling. It’s a commitment to foster an environment where young minds can flourish, where the seeds of curiosity and creativity can sprout and blossom.
“Through this scholarship, we hope to empower you to carry forward the legacy of this extraordinary woman. My mom, although she can no longer hug each child, her generosities can still be felt by the recipients of her scholarship.”
Sophomore Nathan Galicia, a first-generation student from Texas, shared his experiences as a scholarship recipient at Newman. He expressed gratitude for the academic, athletic and Metanoia scholarships that have allowed him to pursue his education and become involved in various campus organizations.
“Every organization has become a family to me … from the troubadours to the bowling team, to the Honors Program, to Campus Ministry and many more, I’ve had the opportunity, as my mother says, ‘to live my best Nathan Life.’”
He aspires to be a youth minister and hopes to inspire other first-generation students to pursue their educational dreams.
Funding scholarships benefits both donors and recipients
Donors in attendance shared their reasons for supporting scholarships at Newman, citing the importance of paying it forward and recognizing the value of a Newman education. They expressed pride in being able to provide scholarships and acknowledged the positive impact that Newman graduates have had in their community.
In her closing comments, Jagger shared her desire and belief that Newman will continue to grow, thrive and provide the values-based Catholic education that it has long been recognized for delivering to the region.
“So thank you to all the donors. Thank you for making that possible. And students, thank you for being here. You are why we’re here.”