Cynthia (M’90) and Eric (T’89) Newman are co-owners of the The Newman Group of Indianapolis Inc. and regional vice presidents with Primerica Inc. where they help families make sense of their money.

Cornell Bell was a major influence in both Cynthia and Eric’s development, having recruited them to the Business Opportunity Program (BOP) from Lew Wallace High School in Gary, Indiana.

Because of the strength of their relationship with Bell, the Newmans maintained a close relationship with Purdue after graduating.

“Once we started our business in financial services, Dr. Bell brought us back to campus to speak with the business students about entrepreneurship and how to manage money as young professionals,” Eric shares.

In addition to their involvement with BOP, the couple was also involved in activities at the Black Cultural Center, the Society of Minority Managers, and Greek life. Cynthia is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and Eric is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi.

“From networking to finding mentors, these connections have and continue to play a major role in our development,” says Eric.

In their work, the Newmans dedicate themselves to improving the lives of everyone they encounter, whether by helping them with their financial footing or by helping them launch their careers in entrepreneurship.

“We always knew that we wanted to own our own business,” Cynthia reflects. “We both entered Purdue as accounting majors and Eric had been doing taxes for people even as a high school student. After graduation, we were blessed to find a company — Primerica Inc. — that was dedicated to educating families on money management. The fact that they welcomed partnership, where spouses could build a business together, was icing on the cake.”

Out of all their accomplishments, Cynthia and Eric are most proud of their 33-year marriage. The couple got married in secret at the end of Cynthia’s first semester on campus.

“We didn’t tell anyone until a few weeks later,” says Eric. “It was a surprise to everyone we knew — friends, professors, and particularly our family back at home! Everyone thought we were crazy. At 18 and 20 years old, I guess to some extent we were. Nearly 34 years later, we’re still happily married and successfully working side by side in our business. We learned a great deal about how to do that during our days at Purdue.”

Reflecting on their journey, Cynthia shares that believing in themselves was key to get through difficult times.

“Hang in there and strive to be your best,” she says. “The rewards will catch up with you. Until they do, save your money so that you can stay in business and handle the unexpected.”