Newman Center History

For over 75 years, the Newman Center has been a part of The Ohio State University spiritual life experience.

"Yes, yes, yes we Do, We have Spirit, How bout' You!"

The Newman Club had its start in a house located at 1944 Iuka Avenue.  The Newman Club offered many social activities for the Catholic student body at The Ohio State University.  The latter part of the decade brought about discussion of building a worship space and social hall for the Newman Club.  

The Catholic Times reported that the cornerstone of the new Newman Hall on Iuka was laid in 1949 with main support coming from the Knights of Columbus and Bishop Ready who was the Bishop of the Columbus Diocese during this time.
 

1950s

In 1956, the Paulist arrive at The Ohio State University

Bishop Ready invited the Paulist Fathers to serve full time in ministering to the spiritual needs of OSU Catholic students in 1956.  The first Paulists to serve as Director and Assistant Director of the Newman Foundation were Fr’s. Walsh and Keating respectively.

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1960s

​As the Catholic student body continued to grow at Ohio State, community leaders including the Diocese begin searching for land conveniently located near campus to “ease the situation” and to build the new Newman Center.  In January 1964, the Diocese of Columbus purchased land on Lane Avenue and West 9th Avenue for the proposed Newman Center and meeting space for classes, the Graduate Guild and international students.