Dr. Steve Newman spent more than five decades at Northern Kentucky University helping students understand mathematics and, more importantly, helping them believe they could succeed in a subject that many found intimidating. His death in August marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of NKU's Department of Mathematics and Statistics. Still, the impact of his work continues to shape NKU classrooms, academic programs and the lives of students who learned under his steady, encouraging guidance.

Newman arrived on campus in 1972, just a few years after NKU opened its doors. He quickly became a fixture in his department, embracing the energy of a growing institution and the chance to help build its academic foundation. Through the next 53 years, he never wavered in his commitment to teaching. In his own words, shared during NKU's Alumni Awards Celebration last year: "NKU is my home. I've been here for 53 years. What I love most about teaching at NKU is the students. I enjoy interacting with them," he said. "I get a charge out of seeing them light up when they understand something. I just love teaching—that's why I've been here for so long."

Generations of students knew him as a favorite professor who was patient, approachable and deeply invested in their success. His classroom was a place where the subject became less intimidating and more achievable. He celebrated progress of every size, encouraged questions and made sure students felt seen. Alumni across decades remember the same details, including his calm presence, his genuine enthusiasm when they solved a difficult problem and his belief that every student could excel with the right support.

Outside his own classroom, Newman was just as committed to strengthening mathematics education across Kentucky. Nearly all of his scholarly work centered on improving college readiness for high school students. His efforts led to the creation and growth of two of the state's most influential assessment tools, the Kentucky Early Mathematics Testing Program (KEMTP) and the Kentucky Online Testing (KYOTE) program. These initiatives helped thousands of students gauge their preparedness for college-level mathematics and take meaningful steps toward success long before they arrived on a university's campus. His leadership made him a respected figure statewide, and his legacy in college readiness remains deeply woven into Kentucky's educational landscape.

His colleagues describe his impact as too large to measure—a sentiment that extends far beyond assessment programs or classroom hours. Newman was the type of faculty member who shaped the culture of a department, generous with his time and always willing to help a student or support a colleague. That dedication was recognized publicly last spring when he received the 2025 Faculty/Staff Strongest Influence Award.

Newman's commitment to students extended well beyond his teaching and research. His philanthropy was always rooted in one goal: expanding opportunities for NKU students. His generosity established the Newman Endowment for Undergraduate Research in STEM, an investment that provides financial support for NKU students participating in the Center for Integrative Natural Science and Mathematics’ (CINSAM) undergraduate research program (UR-STEM). The endowment opens doors for hands-on learning experiences that help students grow as scientists, scholars and future professionals.

Thinking ahead, Newman established a planned gift named the Newman Fund. This fund is an endowed resource supporting the initiatives he believed most important for student success, allowing his department to use those funds for whatever initiatives they deem most essential. A portion of this planned gift is devoted to sustaining the continuation of the undergraduate research support he valued so deeply.

While his professional accomplishments and philanthropy left a profound mark on NKU, his family remembers a warm, steady presence who showed up on time for holidays, birthdays and simple moments of togetherness. His sister, Betsy Frame, recalls Thanksgivings marked by laughter, Fourth of July sparklers, Christmas mornings that did not begin until "Uncle Steve" arrived from Kentucky and the annual tradition of him placing the angel on top of the family tree. He was steady, generous and deeply loved.

Those who knew Dr. Newman at NKU feel that same sense of gratitude. His life's work was helping students learn and helping them believe they belonged in the world of mathematics. His influence endures in every student he taught, every program he built and every opportunity made possible through his philanthropy. His legacy at NKU and across Kentucky will continue to guide and inspire for generations to come.