Introduction
Thomas Aquinas College is a private, Catholic liberal arts college located in Santa Paula, California. Founded in 1971, the college is known for its rigorous curriculum, which emphasizes the study of the Great Books of Western Civilization and the integration of faith and reason. In addition to its academic reputation, Thomas Aquinas College is also home to a number of interesting and unique facts. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most fun and fascinating facts about this renowned institution of higher learning.
Fun facts about Thomas Aquinas College
The College’s Curriculum is Based on the Great Books
Thomas Aquinas College is known for its unique and challenging curriculum, which is based on the study of the Great Books of Western Civilization. Rather than relying on textbooks and lectures, students at Thomas Aquinas College engage directly with the primary texts of the Western intellectual tradition, including works by Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Aquinas, Shakespeare, and many others.
The curriculum is designed to provide students with a broad and deep understanding of the ideas and values that have shaped Western civilization. In addition to the core curriculum, which includes courses in mathematics, science, philosophy, and theology, students at Thomas Aquinas College also have the opportunity to pursue advanced studies in specialized fields such as music, art, and literature.
The College’s Campus is Modeled after an Italian Village
One of the most unique aspects of Thomas Aquinas College is its campus, which is modeled after an Italian village. The campus was designed by architect James Coonan, who drew inspiration from the medieval hill towns of Italy.
The campus features a number of distinctive buildings, including St. Bernardine of Siena Library, which is modeled after the Cathedral of Siena, and St. Cecilia Hall, which is based on the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi. The campus also includes a chapel, dormitories, classrooms, and a dining hall, all of which are designed to evoke the atmosphere of a traditional European village.
The College is Home to the New England Patriots’ Owner
Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots, is an alumnus of Thomas Aquinas College. Kraft graduated from the college in 1963, and has since become one of the most successful and influential owners in the National Football League.
Kraft is a strong supporter of Catholic education, and has donated generously to Thomas Aquinas College over the years. In recognition of his contributions, the college named its athletic center after him in 2010.
The College Has Produced a Number of Prominent Alumni
In addition to Robert Kraft, Thomas Aquinas College has produced a number of other notable alumni, including John Finnis, a renowned legal philosopher and professor at Oxford University; Joseph Fessio, the founder and editor of Ignatius Press; and Mary Ann Glendon, a former ambassador to the Holy See and professor at Harvard Law School.
Many of the college’s alumni have gone on to successful careers in law, medicine, academia, and other fields, and have made important contributions to their communities and society as a whole.
The College Has an Unusual Dining Hall Tradition
One of the most unusual and beloved traditions at Thomas Aquinas College is the “Coffee House,” which takes place every Wednesday evening in the college’s dining hall. During this event, students and faculty gather to share poetry, music, and other forms of artistic expression.
The Coffee House tradition dates back to the early days of the college, when a group of students and faculty would gather in the dining hall to share readings and performances. Today, the Coffee House is a beloved institution at Thomas Aquinas College, and is a testament to the college’s commitment to the arts and humanities.
The College Has an Impressive Record of Athletic Success
Despite its focus on the liberal arts, Thomas Aquinas College also has an impressive record of athletic success. The college’s athletic teams, known as the “Fighting Saints,” compete in the California Pacific Conference of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.
The college offers a number of varsity sports, including men’s and women’s soccer, basketball, cross country, and track and field. The Fighting Saints have enjoyed significant success in these sports, with several conference championships and national tournament appearances.
In addition to its varsity sports programs, Thomas Aquinas College also offers a variety of intramural sports and fitness activities for students, including hiking, rock climbing, and yoga.
The College is Known for Its Strong Catholic Identity
As a Catholic college, Thomas Aquinas College is committed to fostering a strong Catholic identity among its students and faculty. The college’s mission is to provide an education that is both academically rigorous and faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Students at Thomas Aquinas College are required to attend Mass daily, and are encouraged to participate in a variety of other spiritual activities, including retreats, Bible studies, and service projects. The college also hosts a number of guest speakers and events that explore the intersection of faith and reason.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Thomas Aquinas College is a unique and fascinating institution that is known for its rigorous curriculum, strong Catholic identity, and impressive record of athletic success. From its distinctive Italian village campus to its beloved Coffee House tradition, the college has a number of interesting and fun facts that make it stand out among other colleges and universities. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding educational experience that combines the best of the liberal arts and Catholic tradition, Thomas Aquinas College is definitely worth considering.