Catholic Leadership
Newman Chaplain
Father Marc Nakulu, SMA
I am Father Marc NKULU NGOMBANDA, a priest from the missionary order named SOCIETY OF AFRICAN MISSIONS (SMA). Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, a former Belgium colony. I was ordained a catholic priest since May 10, 2015 and I have worked
previously in Lagos Nigeria, Kinshasa DR Congo, New Jersey and Peoria, USA. Since July first I was appointed parochial Vicar for St Paul Macomb; St Rose Rushville and Saint Francis Newman Center. It’s a pleasure for me to work with you in the Newman Center, ministering to College students is a privilege for me. I hope to have a good time with you all.
Assistant Chaplain
Father James
Newman Center Ministry
St. Francis of Assisi Newman Center Coordinator
Beate Wilson
Being able to share the Catholic faith with young adults at our Newman center has been absolutely amazing. One of the greatest blessings is to be a witness to see college students deepening their Catholic faith while developing a new or refreshing their lost relationship with God. At our center we offer various faith, social, or community outreach activities for college students throughout the year. Join us for some Faith, Fun, and Fellowship!
Lex Orandi Lex Credendi
St. Francis of Assisi community Bible Study Leader
Susan Courter
Newman Center Bible Study 2025-2026
This school year we will be covering the Book of Acts. Here are a few highlights:
Acts picks up where we left off last year (Christ’s ascension) and shows the dynamic beginnings of the Christian community in its first 30 years.
In Acts we find the origins of many Catholic practices today, including how the Catholic Magisterium arose (i.e. the teaching authority of the bishops in union with the pope).
We also have a nitty-gritty look at Christian life in action in a hostile culture—courage and power, unity and conflicts, blessings and persecution. Through the willingness of early Christians to endure brutal persecution, we see how highly they valued their faith in Christ above all else.
The book of Acts provides the context for most of the other books of the New Testament (the letters of St. Paul & St. Peter). And it has a lot of drama and adventure to keep things interesting.
I am very much looking forward to sharing with you and learning from you as the Holy Spirit guides our devotional time together. Please always feel free to email me with any questions or concerns you have. The peace of Christ be with you!
Susan Courter
Newman Faculty Advisor
Pete Jorgensen
Hello, I am a full professor in the School of Communication and Media at Western Illinois University where I currently serve as the School Director. I recently served as the Interim Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication and served as the Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Communication for over 10 years. I also served as the Co-Chair of the National Communication Association’s Training and Development Division. I primarily teach graduate and undergraduate courses in organizational communication, although I also teaches courses in communication research methods, persuasion, communication training and development, and small group communication.
I regularly attend the 10:00 mass on Sundays at St. Paul Church where I usually serve as a Eucharistic Minister. I am honored to serve as the faculty advisor for the Newman Center.
Newman Center Student Disciples
Newman Student Worker and Newman student Board President
Annaliese
Hello, my name is Annaliese Goc and I am a freshman at WIU majoring in Agricultural Education. Growing up Catholic, I understand the importance of my relationship with God, and the Newman Center has helped develop that relationship. I was given the opportunity to work at the Newman Center while still in high school and do not regret taking it. Throughout my time working here, I have established a healthier relationship with my faith and it has given me the opportunity to meet many great people.
Newman Liturgical Student leader and Newman Board Secretary
Keaton
I am from Geneseo, Illinois. I just started my freshman year at Western and am currently majoring in Broadcast Production.
International student ambassador
Arnold
My name is Arnold Mugisha, and I am an International Student Ambassador at the Newman Centre. I’m originally from Uganda, and have resided in Canada and the USA, which has intensified my enthusiasm for discovering various cultures. I am excited to assist WIU students in adapting to university life, creating a solid network, and making the Newman center a spiritual home for you, too.
Newman Student Worker and Newman Board Student Treasurer
Anabelle
Hello! My name is Anabelle Clark. I am a Macomb native and recently received my master’s degree in Community and Economic Development through the AmeriCorps Fellows Program at Western Illinois University. I grew up attending St. Paul School and Church in Macomb, and I am grateful to my parents for providing a Catholic education for me and my three younger siblings.
God has blessed me with a loving and supportive community, and I am excited for the opportunity to give back in my new position with the Newman Center. Outside the Newman Center, you can find me in town serving with the YMCA After School Program, in the Macomb Giving Gardens, or on the pickleball courts!
Newman Student and Newman Board Vice President
Lydia
Hello, my name is Lydia Bennett. I will be a sophomore at WIU majoring in Ag business and minoring in animal science and pre-MBA. I also run cross country and track here. I am from Auburn, Indiana, about 7 hours away, but I fell in love with the ag program and the amazing team chemistry. I was raised Catholic and am excited to see how the Newman Center can help strengthen my Catholic faith and the journey ahead!
Newman student worker
Jessica
Hello, my name is Jessica Gil Cardenas and I am a Forensic Chemistry major at Western Illinois University. Growing up in a Mexican-American household, I have always valued the importance of family, culture, and faith in shaping who I am. The Newman Center has been an important part of my journey, helping me strengthen my relationship with God while navigating college life. My time at the Newman Center has not only helped me grow spiritually but has also allowed me to meet amazing people and build meaningful friendships that I will carry with me long after graduation.
Newman Student Worker
Kaitlyn
My name is Kaitlyn Driskell and I am a senior Psychology major with a minor in ASL! I love being involved at WIU in programs such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Marching Leathernecks, and many more. I have been blessed with many amazing opportunities and I am excited to continue my faith journey working at the Newman Center!
Newman Student Worker
Alec
My name is Alec Acevedo and I am a junior majoring in Zoology with a minor in law enforcement. I am from Chicago IL. The Newman center is a great place for anyone to strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ, whether you were raised Catholic or not. Do not be afraid to stop in for mass, bible study, grab a snack or do homework. All are welcome, God bless.