Introduction
Thomas More University is a private, Catholic liberal arts university located in Crestview Hills, Kentucky. The university is named after Saint Thomas More, an English lawyer, social philosopher, and author who was beheaded by King Henry VIII for refusing to renounce his Catholic faith. Since its establishment in 1921, the university has been committed to providing an education that values both intellectual and spiritual growth. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Thomas More University.
The History of Thomas More University Thomas More University was established in 1921 by the Benedictine Sisters of Covington, Kentucky, as Villa Madonna College, a women’s college. In 1945, the college became coeducational and changed its name to Thomas More College. In 2018, the institution was granted university status and changed its name to Thomas More University. Today, the university is home to over 2,000 students and offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
The Art Collection at Thomas More University
Thomas More University is home to an impressive art collection, with over 800 works of art on display throughout the campus. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces from both local and international artists. One of the most significant works in the collection is a sculpture of Saint Thomas More by renowned artist, Benjamin C. Grimes. The sculpture was commissioned by the university in 2002 and is located in the entrance to the library.
Another notable work in the collection is a painting by Kentucky artist Frank Duveneck, titled “Mother of Sorrows.” The painting depicts the Virgin Mary mourning the death of her son, Jesus, and is considered one of Duveneck’s finest works. The university also has a dedicated art gallery, the Eva G. Farris Gallery, which showcases the work of local and national artists throughout the year.
The Institute for Religious Liberty at Thomas More University
The Institute for Religious Liberty at Thomas More University is a unique resource that provides education, research, and advocacy on issues related to religious freedom. The institute was established in 2019 and is housed within the university’s School of Humanities. The goal of the institute is to promote an understanding of the importance of religious freedom and to advocate for its protection both in the United States and around the world.
The institute hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, conferences, and workshops. In 2021, the institute hosted a virtual conference titled “Religious Freedom and the Common Good,” which brought together scholars, policymakers, and activists to discuss the importance of religious freedom in promoting the common good. The conference featured keynote addresses from Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop Charles Chaput, and other notable speakers.
The Ethical Leadership Program at Thomas More University
The Ethical Leadership Program at Thomas More University is a unique initiative that aims to develop ethical leaders who are committed to making a positive impact in their communities. The program is open to all students at the university and is designed to help them develop the skills and knowledge needed to lead with integrity and compassion.
The program includes a variety of activities and events, such as leadership workshops, community service projects, and networking opportunities. One of the most popular events in the program is the annual Ethical Leadership Summit, which brings together students, faculty, and community leaders to discuss issues related to ethical leadership. The summit features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and interactive workshops.
The Biology Field Station at Thomas More University
The Biology Field Station at Thomas More University is a unique resource that provides students with hands-on learning experiences in environmental science and biology. The field station is located on 86 acres of forest and wetlands along the Ohio River and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The field station is equipped with research labs, a greenhouse, and a herbarium, making it an ideal location for conducting research and field studies.
The Biology Field Station offers a variety of educational programs for students of all levels, from elementary school through college. Students can participate in guided tours, field trips, and research projects that explore the biodiversity of the region. The field station is also open to the public and offers a variety of community outreach programs, including bird watching events and educational workshops.
The Saints Athletics Program at Thomas More University
Thomas More University’s Saints Athletics Program has a rich history of success in NCAA Division III sports. The university sponsors 23 varsity sports teams, including football, basketball, soccer, and volleyball, among others. The Saints have won numerous conference championships and have made multiple appearances in NCAA tournaments.
One of the most successful teams in the Saints Athletics Program is the women’s basketball team, which has won two national championships (2016 and 2017) and has made several appearances in the Final Four. The team has also produced several players who have gone on to play professionally overseas.
In addition to its athletic success, the Saints Athletics Program is committed to the holistic development of its student-athletes. The program offers a variety of academic and personal support services, including tutoring, career counseling, and mental health resources.
The Summer Music Festival at Thomas More University
The Summer Music Festival at Thomas More University is an annual event that brings together musicians from around the world for a week-long celebration of music. The festival offers a variety of programs for musicians of all ages and skill levels, including masterclasses, ensemble performances, and private lessons.
The festival is held on the Thomas More University campus and features performances by faculty members and guest artists. Past guest artists have included world-renowned musicians such as cellist Yo-Yo Ma and jazz pianist Chick Corea.
In addition to its educational and artistic offerings, the Summer Music Festival also provides a unique cultural experience for the community. The festival hosts a variety of free concerts and events that are open to the public, including a family concert and a jazz night.
Conclusion
Thomas More University is a unique institution that combines academic excellence with a commitment to service and spiritual growth. From its impressive art collection to its innovative academic programs, the university offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a student, a community member, or simply a lover of the arts, there’s always something new to discover at Thomas More University.