Newman University awarded $2.1M grant, focus on supporting SW Kansas students

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – College students across southwest Kansas will soon have access to more program offerings through Newman University thanks to a $2.1 million Research and Public Engagement Development (RPED) grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

According to Newman, this grant will significantly enhance educational access and workforce development in southwest Kansas by creating partnerships with Dodge City Community College, Garden City Community College and Seward County Community College.

Newman said the grant will allow these colleges to strengthen program offerings in business, agribusiness, education, nursing and a future sonography program.

The university said the grant funding will also allow it to provide smart classrooms and a laptop loaner program for students. It will also increase need-based financial support and establish paid internship stipends for students.

Other plans for the grant include enhancing support services to promote student success. These services include improving advising, financial aid assistance and career development initiatives. Four new roles will be created to assist with these services.

Newman University President Kathleen S. Jagger believes the award is a “game-changer” for the region. “By providing accessible, affordable education coupled with immersive workforce training, we are empowering individuals and communities in southwest Kansas to thrive,” Jagger said.

The $2.1 million RPED grant is in addition to Newman’s recently announced $1.2 million in federal funding for a new mobile agribusiness technology lab serving students in Wichita and across southwest Kansas.

To find more information about education programs available through Newman, visit NewmanU.edu.

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