Don Briel Scholarship Fund

Now in its third year, the Newman Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture was founded to help undergraduates and the wider Lincoln community benefit from the wisdom of a liberal arts education. The Institute offers college-credit courses on the great works of Western Literature. In exposing students to what is most noble and edifying in our common heritage, the Institute seeks to rekindle an appreciation for all that is true, good and beautiful. In studying such authors as Homer and Plato, Dante and Shakespeare, our courses pursue wisdom in the spirit of Blessed John Henry Newman, whose passion for truth and love of learning made him a model for all who value education.
 
As a devoted student and disciple of Newman, the late Dr. Don Briel (1947-2018) was a master teacher and pioneer of Catholic Studies, having launched the first such program at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Dr. Briel taught hundreds of students, many of whom went on to become priests, religious and lay leaders in the Catholic Church. He was among the earliest supporters of the Newman Institute and generously served on its founding board. In his final months with us, Dr. Briel became the first “Friend of the Newman Institute” and promised to support our work with his prayer, counsel and financial help.
 
As a way of honoring Dr. Briel and his lifelong work, the Newman Institute now offers full and partial scholarships ($650 and $325) to deserving undergraduates. Please consider coming alongside a student in helping make their pursuit of wisdom possible by donating to the Don Briel Scholarship Fund. 

Thank you and God bless!