I am from Rwanda in Africa. Before I entered the diocesan priesthood in my native Rwanda, I studied telecommunications and went to Japan at KDD (Tokyo) for satellite communication engineering. I worked a couple of years in a telecommunications company in Rwanda then afterwards I entered into the seminary for studies in philosophy and theology.

I was ordained priest in 2001 and worked in a parish as a parochial vicar for two years and then as pastor for one year before moving to the USA in September 2004. I enjoy my vocation as a priest and I am very happy to be assigned at the Davis Newman Center. I look forward to meeting you all. God bless you.

I am beginning my eighth year as Director of the Newman Center. Over the past year, we have been blessed with a new Chaplain, Fr. Innocent Subiza who will continue as Chaplain in 2010-2011. The continued vitality and enthusiasm of the students and those who call the Newman Center their spiritual home is very exciting and hopeful. I look forward to working with our new student staff (three are returning staff members), Fr. Innocent, Ellie Wright, our Administrative Assistant and our community of faith in the coming academic year. Being at the Newman Center offers me a wonderful opportunity for ministry – a ministry that has grown stronger and more worthwhile each year. And, I think it keeps me young, well sort of!!!

I was ordained a Permanent Deacon in June of 2000 after working thirty-four years for the League of California Cities in various management positions. Deacons are part of the clergy of the Church, but we are permitted to be married. I am married to Janet Gift who owns a business here in Davis. We have two children – Seth (age 33) is a commercial fisherman in western Alaska and daughter Erin (age 30) lives near Seattle and is a medical researcher for the University of Washington. In November 2010, Erin and Wes had their first child, Miles—our first grandchild. How exciting!!!!!!

Before being assigned to the Newman Center, I was very active at St. James Parish here in Davis. I am still involved in some parish activities including presiding at baptisms, marriages and preaching. I also assist people with marriage annulment cases in the Church.

My educational background has been greatly influenced by the Jesuits – BA degree from the University of San Francisco, a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University and a Master's Degree in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University New Orleans.

My theology is grounded in the Jesuit spirituality of " finding God in all things, listening with a discerning heart, choosing to live for the greater glory of God."

I hope you will spend some time checking out our web site and I invite you to visit us here at the Newman Center. Stop by to say hello, or feel free to call or email.

Peace!

I am starting my second year at Newman Center. I have greatly enjoyed working with the students and staff all who have made me feel welcome.

I live in Woodland with Jeff, my husband of 37 years. We are members of Holy Rosary parish and active in various ministries. We have three children. Annie (33) and her husband, Chris, live in Lakewood, CA and are the parents of our granddaughters, Elisa (4) and Lauren (2 months). They both work for the State of California. Our son, Jack (30) is a UCD graduate, lives in Woodland and is program director at Summer House in Woodland. Sarah (23) is entering the credential program at UC Riverside this year.

I am looking forward to meeting all the new students and welcoming back those returning for another year.

Hi everyone! My name is Jillian Frediani. I am a fourth year Biomedical Engineering student, planning to graduate this June. After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school in neuroscience. I’m originally from Claremont just east of Pasadena in sunny California. I am this year’s Pastoral Associate, serving my second year on student staff. I came to Newman as a freshman and was appointed the liturgical minster during my second year, organizing all the ministers for each mass, and helping to recruit and train new ministers. Last year on staff, my primary focus was community life. I helped to strengthen the bonds in the community here at Newman and with local communities here in Davis. I can’t wait to share this next year with everyone and I hope you will find Newman a second family as I did. You are all welcome to stop by for any or all of our activities. Please take a minute to check out the calendar page to see all of the upcoming Newman activities.
[top]

Hi, my name is Amanda Veatch. I'm a second-year animal science major, with plans to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. My hometown is Santa Maria, on the central coast of California. When I came to Davis, the Newman Center was one of the first places I checked out, and I encourage you to do the same if you haven't already. It's a great place to grow in faith and to make new friends and meet new people, so stop on by and say hi if you get the chance. We've got a bunch of activities planned for the year, too, so be sure to check those out. Hope to see you there!
[top]

My name is Rose. I graduated from San Luis Obispo High School and I'm now a third year sociology major at UC Davis. I've participated at the Newman Center since my freshman year and am excited to be in my second year on the Newman Student Staff! Newman is a great place to make connections with people, take on a leadership role if one desires, learn more about the Catholic faith, sing in choirs, and have fun with friends. I am very excited to continue my involvement at Newman and hope you will join us at mass, at retreats, at Thursday Soul Food, or in one of the other many events at the Davis Newman Center!
[top]

Hi! My name is Vanessa. I am a fourth year English major with aspirations in library science. I am from the bay area and I transferred from a community college to UC Davis. I really hope you feel the familial warmth and comfort that I have since coming to Newman. I truly feel blessed to be a part of the Newman family and I hope we can all become closer to God this upcoming year. Hope to see you at upcoming events!
[top]

Hello, my name is Alysha McCarry. I am a second year science major at UC Davis, however, I think psychology and religious studies may be where God is leading me instead, in this upcoming year. As I explore the possibilities I am leaning into God's arms of wisdom and letting Him guide me. My goal after college is to study further in the medical field and work in pediatric oncology! Through all my learning and experiences it has been faith in Christ that has guided me and picked me up every step of the way! I encourage you to get involved at the Newman Center and see what God has in store for you.

"What you are is GOD's gift to you. What you become is your gift to GOD."
[top]