Introduction
Thomas College is a private college located in Waterville, Maine. It was established in 1894 as a business school and has since grown to offer a variety of programs in business, education, and technology. With a rich history spanning over a century, there are many fun facts about Thomas College that are worth exploring. From its founding to present-day achievements, this blog post will delve into some of the most interesting and unique aspects of this esteemed institution.
Campus Life at Thomas College
The campus life at Thomas College is full of exciting opportunities for students to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities. Whether it’s joining a club, participating in sports, or attending social events, there is never a dull moment on campus.
Clubs
Thomas College offers a wide range of clubs for students to join. One of the most unique clubs is the Quidditch Club, inspired by the Harry Potter book series. This club allows students to play a real-life version of the game, which involves running around on broomsticks and scoring points by throwing a ball through hoops. The club has gained popularity in recent years and has even competed in national competitions.
Another interesting club is the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Club. This club allows students to learn about forensic science and participate in mock crime scene investigations. They use real forensic techniques to collect and analyze evidence, which helps them understand the complexities of solving crimes. This club is not only fun but also provides valuable skills for students interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement.
Sports
Thomas College has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in the NCAA Division III level. One of the most interesting sports offered is the Nordic Skiing team. This team competes in cross-country skiing races across New England and the Eastern United States. This sport requires endurance, strength, and precision, and is a unique opportunity for students who enjoy the outdoors and want to push themselves physically.
Another interesting sport is the Esports team. Esports, or electronic sports, involves competing in video games such as League of Legends, Overwatch, and Fortnite. This team competes against other colleges and universities and has gained popularity in recent years as gaming has become more mainstream. The Esports team is a great way for students to compete in a sport they love while also honing their skills in teamwork, communication, and strategy.
History and Traditions of Thomas College: Thomas College has a rich history and many traditions that have been passed down through generations of students and faculty. These traditions help create a sense of community and belonging on campus and add to the unique culture of the institution.
Founder’s Day
One of the most important traditions at Thomas College is Founder’s Day. This day celebrates the founding of the college and honors the legacy of its founder, L. V. Bassett. It is celebrated every year on March 22nd and includes a variety of events, such as a formal dinner, speeches by faculty and alumni, and the presentation of awards to outstanding students.
The Mace
The Mace is a symbol of the authority of the college and is used at formal ceremonies such as graduation and convocation. It is a highly decorated staff made of brass and ebony and is topped with a silver crown. The Mace is carried by the college marshal and is a unique and important tradition that adds to the formal atmosphere of these events.
The Torchlight Ceremony
The Torchlight Ceremony is held at the beginning of each academic year and symbolizes the passing of knowledge from the faculty to the students. During this ceremony, faculty members carry torches and lead a procession of new students around the campus, culminating in the lighting of a ceremonial flame. This tradition is a powerful symbol of the importance of education and the responsibility of both faculty and students to uphold the values of the institution.
Notable Alumni of Thomas College
Thomas College has a long list of notable alumni who have achieved great success in their respective fields. From business leaders to politicians, the alumni of Thomas College have made their mark on the world.
Dennis Paper
Dennis Paper is an alumnus of Thomas College who graduated in 1977. He is the founder and CEO of the Paper Transport Company, a logistics company that provides transportation services across the United States. Under his leadership, the company has grown to become one of the largest trucking companies in the country, with over 1,000 employees and 800 trucks.
Susan Collins
Susan Collins is a United States Senator from Maine and an alumna of Thomas College. She graduated in 1975 with a degree in government and has since served in the Maine House of Representatives, the Maine Senate, and the United States Senate. She is known for her bipartisan approach to politics and has been a key player in many important legislative efforts, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act and the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.
Terry Hayes
Terry Hayes is a former State Treasurer of Maine and an alumna of Thomas College. She graduated in 1979 with a degree in business administration and has since served in a variety of public service roles, including as a member of the Maine House of Representatives and as the Independent candidate for Governor of Maine in 2018. She is known for her dedication to public service and her commitment to improving the lives of Mainers.
Conclusion
Thomas College has a rich history and a unique culture that sets it apart from other institutions of higher learning. From its founding as a business school to its current offerings in business, education, and technology, Thomas College has always been at the forefront of innovation and excellence. Its strong athletics program, diverse clubs, and unique traditions make it a vibrant and exciting place to be a student. Its alumni have achieved great success in their respective fields and continue to make a positive impact on the world. Thomas College is a special place that will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who have been a part of it.
