We envision a new, expanded Newman Center – St. Thomas Aquinas Church! Seating in the church will be increased from 275 to 640 and the facility will feature functional meeting and office space. The Catholic fraternity will have its own house immediately east of the Newman Center and the Catholic sorority will have its house within two blocks, in the heart of Greek row. The Catholic Church as a whole will continue to benefit as young men and women learn to live their faith and discern their personal vocations at the Newman Center. Whether called to the priesthood, religious life or married life, the strong Catholic values developed at the Newman Center will guide students throughout their own lives and impact parishes across Nebraska.

As the Newman Center flourishes, the University of Nebraska – Lincoln benefits as well. A strong faith-centered organization anchored in the heart of the University gives a positive example to the college community. The city of Lincoln, currently experiencing a downtown/campus renaissance with new construction and exciting projects, will benefit from a new Newman Center on a major city thoroughfare as well. The relocation of the University of Nebraska Federal Credit Union to a new facility and the construction of new fraternity and sorority houses will enhance both the campus and the city. All the new construction will be much more “green;” more energy-efficient. The possibility of building to Silver or Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification standards is being considered.