Neumann University will mark its 60th anniversary in 2025, and what better way to celebrate than by sharing alumni stories.

The university has partnered with Publishing Concepts, Inc. (PCI) to launch the Neumann Voices project, a collection of stories and memories that bring the Neumann University experience to life. There is no cost to share your story, and all alumni are invited to participate. Everyone will have an opportunity to purchase a keepsake publication as a hardbound book or digital collection in the fall.

If you have not already responded to an email, phone call, or postcard from PCI, you can participate by calling the dedicated Neumann University update line at 800-347-7562.

Stories that have been submitted so far range from 1967 to 2023. They include memories of student life, inspirational faculty members, teammates, career connections, and lifelong friendships.

Here are some abbreviated samples to get your creative juices flowing.

Movie and TV Connections

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  Attending Neumann University was one of the best decisions I ever made. I immediately felt at home and knew this was the right place for me. Initially, I was undecided on a major, but I ultimately landed on business administration, as I wanted to learn how to properly run my art business. Everything I learned about business, from contracts to marketing, I owe to that school. Now, I’m doing projects for major companies like Netflix, Maker’s Mark, and Paramount. Neumann University gave me the solid foundation I needed to achieve this level of success.
  Alloyius McIlwaine ’04

• It was as if I was meant to end up here, like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, finding my heart’s desire in my own familiar surroundings.
  Sandra Huddle ’17

• The campus itself had a sense of holiness and faith that was palpable. When we were snowed in, the few remaining nuns took care of us, making hot chocolate and letting us stay at the off-campus convent. It was like a scene out of The Sound of Music.
  Christina Kapusta ’81

• The best memories, though, come from the bus rides to away games. My coach had never seen Mean Girls before, and his priceless reaction to that movie will always make me laugh. Those team bonding moments are truly what I cherish most from my Neumann experience.
  Amanda Houck ’10

• I also adored Sister Felicia and her secretary, Sister Eileen Walsh. They were like the Lucy and Ethel of Neumann — a hilarious duo who kept me constantly entertained. Sister Felicia was my advisor for most of my time there, while Sister Eileen liked to playfully ‘harass’ me.
  Maura Torelli ’86

Student Life

• As a young novice, I was present at the groundbreaking for what would become Neumann University, then known as Our Lady of Angels. It was an exciting time as I played a role in transferring the library from the motherhouse to the college. I vividly remember the ‘Long Line of Sisters’ passing books hand-to-hand between the buildings.
  Sr. Rose Dvorak, OSF ’72

• One experience stands out the most — the alternative spring break trip to New Mexico during my junior year. I had the opportunity to take a Native American studies course, and we embarked on a week-long service-learning adventure. We immersed ourselves in the life of the reservation, working at the school in the poorest diocese in the country. The true impact of that trip has stayed with me to this day . . . It has shaped my perspective and continues to inspire me, even years later.
  Rebecca Nicoletti ’09

• In fact, the group of five friends I met at Neumann have remained close to this day. We even pulled a memorable prank, taking an ‘Annie doll’ from the nursing department and placing it in the basketball stands, dressed in Neumann sweatpants and a jacket. While the faculty knew it was us, we never got in any real trouble.
  Elizabeth Sushereba ’88

• Neumann has truly become my home, a sanctuary where I find the greatest peace. The Franciscan values instilled here have shaped me in profound ways, guiding me through the stresses of my daily life … Neumann University is not just a place of education; it is a community, a family. Neumann will forever hold a special place in my heart, a sanctuary where I’ve found my calling and embraced the love of God.
  Kimberly LaCoste ’91 ’12

• I distinctly remember the first-year retreat with campus ministry as a pivotal moment. As a Delaware native, my mom had encouraged me to go somewhere further away for college, but that retreat made Neumann feel like my new home. The welcoming community and supportive mentors created an environment where I truly felt safe and comfortable.
  Rayanna Willliams ’18

• The greatest moment of my time at Neumann was winning the NCAA National Championship with the ice hockey team my freshman year. It was an incredible experience to be part of such a dedicated, successful group and to learn from their leadership.
  Jeremy Gates ’12

• Although I didn’t live on campus since I lived nearby, I was still able to get involved and make a difference. I volunteered frequently for Habitat for Humanity and the Sandwiches for Survival program, which had a meaningful impact on my life. Even after graduating, I continued to support the homeless on my own.
  Saliyah Smith ’17

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  I was part of the first graduating class of the medical technology program . . . After graduating, I went on to conduct NIH-funded melanoma research and teach at numerous universities. I also traveled extensively, both nationally and internationally, to present my research . . . This program at Neumann University molded me into the confident, accomplished professional I became.
  Mary Ann McLane ’76, PhD

Career Success

• As a member of the Sisters of Mercy, I was drawn to the faith-based program of study at Neumann University, which was founded and sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis. I admired the holistic approach and the reputation of the two professors running the program, Dr. Joanne Conn and Dr. Eileen Flanagan. The education I received at Neumann University has been an incomparable gift, one that I have been able to share and apply in my professional and personal life, as well as in my spiritual journey.
  Sr. Mary Flannery, RSM ’94

• Neumann’s communications program allowed me to take classes in a variety of areas, from photography and advertising to videography and theater. This flexibility to explore my interests was exactly what I was looking for. Some of my fondest memories include performing in the theater productions and directing a student variety show. These hands-on experiences outside the classroom were incredibly rewarding and helped me grow. I wouldn’t trade my time at Neumann for anything.
  Angela Smedley ’90

• I was determined to attend Neumann University ever since I discovered its strong emphasis on the spiritual aspect of psychotherapy … Now, as a licensed psychotherapist, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment in being able to apply the knowledge and skills I gained at Neumann … The autonomy and expertise I developed through the program have been invaluable in my private practice, where I truly feel I am living out my calling to help others heal.
  Linda DiMatteo ’06 ’20, PhD

• One of the highlights was working on a senior project around racial justice in the NFL. Through that, I was able to connect with NFL players and commentators, which led to an incredible internship opportunity … That internship paved the way for my current role at a global healthcare company, where I’ve been promoted to a program supervisor position … Neumann set me up for success, and I’m forever grateful for my experience there.
  Joshua Mobley ’21

• Neumann provided me with a platform to explore my passions and expand my horizons … After graduating, I hit the ground running, starting my own PR firm. This venture allowed me to work with prominent figures like Meek Mill, Lil’ Kim, and Whoopi Goldberg. I’ve also been involved in major events and productions, such as J. Cole’s Dreamville Fest, the A3C festival in Atlanta, and the BET and NAACP Image Awards.
  Chante Hall ’16

Academic Impact

• As the first man to attend Neumann University (formerly Our Lady of Angels College), I look back on my time there with a deep sense of gratitude and fondness. Coming from a military background as a medic in Vietnam, I had decided to pursue nursing. Despite being the only male student for the first few years, the sisters and faculty made me feel incredibly welcome … The lessons I learned and the unwavering support I received from the sisters and faculty have shaped my life in countless positive ways.
  Lloyd Behmke III ’82

• Juggling a full-time job and classes was certainly difficult and challenging, but it ended up being one of the best things I ever did. Earning that degree opened my eyes to so many new possibilities. I no longer saw the world as black and white — it was full of gray areas that I had never considered before.
  Helen Smith ’13

• The education at Neumann was incredibly challenging, but the support from the instructors was unparalleled. Sister Bernadette in particular worked tirelessly with me, helping me overcome my struggles with math. She taught me the old-fashioned methods that clicked better than the ‘new math’ I had been taught.
  Laurie Mills ’84

• I graduated from Neumann back in 1985, and the experience left a lasting impact on me … The close-knit community and the involvement of the Franciscan sisters in the daily activities of the student body made it feel more like a family than a typical university. Neumann University, to me, represents a nurturing educational environment, where students are recognized as individuals and supported by the Franciscan community. It’s a place that fosters personal growth and a strong sense of purpose.
  Sr. Patricia Millen, OSF ’85

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  Completing the Public Safety Administration degree from Neumann University was a pivotal step in my career. It led to a promotion and allowed me to help grow and renew a fire department, before being selected as the fire chief for a neighboring community. This degree has been instrumental in my advancement and success in the public safety vocation that has been a part of my family for generations.
  Daniel Kerr ’20

• There is a particular course that truly challenged me in ways I did not expect and that made a lasting mark on my life. The professor of the course, Dr. Etsuko Hoshino-Browne, was known to be difficult. The format of the course was primarily student-led ... This meant I could not simply coast through the class, and I had to be an active, engaged participant. I left the course a better student. Looking back, I’m grateful . . . I developed skills that proved invaluable as I went on to law school.
  Garrett Treer ’15

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  The mentorship of Neumann alumni like Stacy Milliken was invaluable. She, along with professors like Dr. Marisa Rauscher and Anne-Marie O’Malley, instilled in me the importance of patient, reflective, and student-centered teaching. Their guidance has remained with me throughout my career, as I strive to truly understand and connect with each of my students.
  Jamie Willis ’13, EdD

• Dr. Nadine McHenry was a pivotal figure in my development as a future educator. She challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and engage with the broader education community, guiding me as I found my path ... But perhaps the greatest gift was the opportunity to learn from an exceptional mentor and coach, Len Schuler. The lessons I learned from him continue to shape my approach to coaching and leading others.
  Eric Rosen ’02

• It was in the ‘communications building’ that I found immense joy, pouring my creativity into a range of projects – from documentaries and short films to even a radio drama. The resources available to us were truly remarkable. We had access to top-notch film equipment, audio gear, and cutting-edge editing software. It was an environment where any thought, idea, or story could come to life. I thrived in this unlimited space.
  Kristina Tannen ’22

• The growth and evolution of Neumann, from its humble beginnings in mobile buildings to the diverse, contemporary institution it is today, has been nothing short of astonishing. The university’s unwavering commitment to serving students who may have faced challenges or marginalization is a testament to its founding principles. It is this focus on providing opportunities to all that I find most fulfilling in my ongoing involvement with Neumann University.
  Sr. Marguerite O’Beirne, OSF ’70

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  I’ll never forget the day I walked into Sister Marguerite’s office. As a recent refugee new to this country, I found myself in a tight spot, struggling to afford basic necessities like textbooks and meals. Sitting in her chair, I let it all out – the tears, the worries, the uncertainty of my situation. And when I finally finished unloading, Sister Marguerite looked at me and said the most reassuring words: ‘You’re going to be okay.’ From that moment on, she went above and beyond to support me. Her compassion and unwavering belief in me made all the difference.
  Yana Tamba ’04

Visit www.neumann.edu/neumannvoices for more information.