Team Directory

Director & Head Chaplain

Fr. Lee Brokaw serves as the Director and Head Chaplain of St. John's Catholic Newman Center.

Assistant Chaplain

Fr. Daniel McShane serves as Assistant Chaplain of St. John's Catholic Newman Center.

Visiting Priest

Fr. Pete Arriagada is a priest of the Prelature of Opus Dei. He visits St. John's Catholic Newman Center on Fridays for Mass and Confessions and is available to meet with students.

Director of Formation

Shawn Reeves directs the religious formation offerings at St. John's Catholic Newman Center, including leading the OCIA program as well as other special events.

Coordinator of Retreats

As Coordinator of Retreats, Liz Cassidy oversees St. John's Catholic Newman Center's efforts at raising up disciples through a variety of retreats wherein students are led to encounter Jesus Christ.

Director of Music

Heath Morber directs the fantastic student choirs, cantors, and musicians at St. John's Catholic Newman Center.

Patrick, Ryan, Simon, Clare, Jenna, Chanelle & Beth

The Catholic Illini Missionary team provides peer mentorship and discipleship, oversees dozens of small group Bible Studies, and helps evangelize the campus.

Outreach to Chinese Students

Nathaniel, Kelli, and their family minister to Chinese students, providing a space for fun, fellowship, and the chance to dive deeper into life's biggest questions and learn more about the Catholic faith. They provide regular events, small group opportunities and friendship for Mandarin-speaking students.

Housing Manager

As Housing Manager, Adri Garcia helps residents and parents "stay centered" at Newman Hall. Adri oversees application, contracting and room selection and directs the Visit Center tours.

Director of Finance & Operations

As Director of Finance & Operations, Tristan Pisarczyk oversees the housing, residential life, business, and facilities operations of Newman Hall and St. John's Catholic Newman Center.

Business Manager

Jen Garcia oversees the business operations, providing support and services to Newman Hall residents and St. John's Catholic Newman Center visitors alike.

Hall Office Manager

Austin Sudkamp oversees operations in the Newman Hall Office, providing support and services to Newman Hall residents and St. John's Catholic Newman Center visitors alike.

Resident Director

Cristina Gonzalez oversees resident life at Newman Hall as the Resident Director. Following Christ’s model of leadership, Cristina directs the team of 20 Resident Advisors in creating a dynamic, supportive community within the Hall.

The Newman Hall Resident Advisor team provides support, builds connections, and creates community for the residents on their floors.

Director of Marketing & Communications

Jenn LaMontagne handles marketing, advertising, media and communication for Newman Hall and St. John's Catholic Newman Center.

Marketing Specialist

Grace Beumler oversees integrative communications, design, and social media development for the Catholic Illini community and Newman Hall.

Director of Advancement

As Director of Advancement, John works with donors, friends, and alumni to help them make a lasting impact for generations of Catholic Illini yet to come through gifts that align with their philanthropic goals.