Kathryn's Legacy
Through quiet strength and enduring faith, she touched many lives. Now her spirit continues to inspire in a sacred work of art at the ASU Newman Center.
Kathryn was an ASU alumnae who passed away in December 2023 at the young age of 31. Even as an alum Kathryn continued to be a part of the ASU Newman Center community. In her role as part of the marketing team
Remembering Kathryn
From the time Kathryn was little, I watched her fall in love with God. She'd come home from Catechism bursting with excitement about what she'd learned. Even in kindergarten, she understood that Jesus was truly present in the Eucharist. I'll never forget her in her sunflower dress, hands raised at communion, begging Fr. Tom to give her Jesus. She couldn't understand why she had to wait. When First Communion finally came, she ran to the church. After that, receiving Jesus each week became the center of her life.
— Ellen, Kathryn’s MomTHE LIVING MEMORIAL: "The Woman at the Well"
"The woman's water jar at her side symbolizes burdens and thirsts carried through life, now met with Christ's gentle grace."
A Sacred Commission in Her Honor
The ASU Catholic Newman Center is commissioning a new mural for the Church depicting Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well (John 4:4-26). This poignant biblical scene reflects the quiet strength and spiritual longing that marked Kathryn's life.
In this profound moment, Christ offers the woman living water, a symbol of spiritual renewal, healing, and eternal life. This scene speaks directly to young adults facing questions about their future, carrying past wounds, and seeking new beginnings.
The Beuronese Tradition
This mural will be created in the Beuronese style, rooted in 19th-century Benedictine monasteries. With its muted colors, stylized figures, and contemplative atmosphere, this artistic tradition encourages prayerful reflection rather than drama. Its balanced composition and gentle simplicity invite viewers into a deeper encounter with divine mystery.
One of Six Sacred Works
The Woman at the Well will be one of six new works adorning the ASU Newman Center church walls. These murals are designed not only to beautify the space but more importantly, to inspire faith and reflection for generations of ASU students.
[Visual: Architectural rendering or artistic concept of the mural placement]
WHY SACRED ART MATTERS
More Than Decoration
Art Shapes Hearts When students gather for daily Mass, they'll be surrounded by images that tell them who they are and who they're becoming. Sacred art doesn't just decorate a space. It forms souls. It teaches theology through beauty. It creates an encounter with the divine that words alone cannot achieve.
Beauty Draws Us to Truth In a world of screens and distractions, young adults hunger for something real and lasting. The craftsmanship of Beuronese-style murals offers substance. The ancient technique connects today's students to centuries of believers who also sought Christ's living water.
A Chapel Worthy of Worship ASU students deserve a sacred space that reflects the dignity of what happens there. These six murals will transform the chapel into a place where heaven touches earth, where students can truly say, "God dwells here."
Kathryn's Values Made Visible This mural doesn't just honor Kathryn's memory. It reminds us of her work. Every student who prays before this image benefits from her legacy of faith, just as she once benefited from those who built the Newman Center before her.
CAMPAIGN PROGRESS
Goal: $66,000
Current: $14,911
HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE: Giving Levels
This sacred work requires a significant investment of $66,000. We invite Kathryn's family and friends to prayerfully consider meaningful pledges that can be made over multiple years.
Cornerstone Gift - $15,000 to $20,000
Lead this memorial effort with a transformational gift. Your cornerstone support makes the entire project possible. Can be pledged over 12-42 months
Pillar Circle - $8,000 to $12,000
Provide essential support as a pillar donor. Your gift forms the foundation of this lasting tribute. Can be pledged over 12-42 months
Patron of the Arts - $4,000 to $7,999
Join as a sustaining patron, ensuring this sacred work becomes reality. Can be pledged over 36 months
Friend of the Chapel - $1,000 to $3,999
Every gift matters. Your contribution adds to the collective impact of this memorial.
Any Amount
All gifts, regardless of size, honor Kathryn's memory and contribute to this sacred commission.
Flexible Payment Plans Available We welcome conversations about gift amounts and payment schedules that work for your situation.
OTHER WAYS TO GIVE
Monthly Giving Become a sustaining donor with automatic monthly gifts
Tribute Gift Give in honor of another loved one alongside Kathryn's memory
Matching Gifts Many employers will match your donation and double your impact
Legacy Giving Include the ASU Newman Center in your estate plans
JOIN US IN HONORING KATHRYN
Your gift, in any amount, will help bring this sacred mural to life in Kathryn's memory, ensuring her love for Catholic sacred art and the Eucharist continues to inspire ASU students for generations.
This mural will stand as a testament to a life marked by courage, devotion, and enduring faith. It will enrich the ASU Newman Center chapel where students, parishioners, and visitors will encounter Christ's living water and find renewed strength in their faith journey.
Get In Touch
Campaign Contact:
Chris Tawney
Campaign Director
chris.tawney@asucatholic.org
(480) 967-7823 Office
(602) 380-9043 Mobile
We welcome personal conversations about this memorial and how you can be part of Kathryn's lasting legacy.