Thomas More University celebrated its sixth Saints Serve Day – a tradition that unites the University community through service and connection. This marks the first time the University has had two service days in one academic year.
Established in 2021, Saints Serve saw more than 1,100 Thomas More students, faculty, staff, alumni, and trustees who opted to take the “day on, rather than a day off” to give back to 52 community nonprofits and civic organizations across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati. Normal campus activities were suspended so all traditional students and employees could participate.
“For 105 years our University has been committed to our Catholic values and traditions, and Saints Serve is an opportunity for our community to make a lasting impact upon others, now and in the future,” said Joseph L. Chillo, LP.D., president of Thomas More University. “This spring’s Saints Serve Day came about thanks to a student suggestion and we’re excited to expand our reach even more by adding another day.”
As a Catholic liberal arts university, Thomas More’s core values — hospitality, humility, service, and stewardship — also known as its Characteristics of a Saint, align perfectly with Saints Serve’s community service.
The impact of service
This year’s participants signed up for activities across a wide variety of organizations including: Be Concerned, Best Point Education and Behavioral Health, Center for Great Neighborhoods, Cincinnati Nature Center, Cincinnati Parks, Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub, Devou Park, Disabled American Veterans, Easterseals, Freestore Food Bank, Gorman Heritage Farm, Kenton County Conservation District, Lighthouse Youth and Family Services, Lydia’s House, Madonna House of Northern Kentucky, Matthew 25 Ministries, Middleton-Mills, Milestones Equestrian Achievement Program, Parish Kitchen, Project Linus, Rose Garden Home Mission, St. Vincent de Paul, and Wasson Way Trails.
“I really appreciate everyone who took the time to participate in this spring’s Saints Serve. It was a beautiful day all around and a great way to come together as a community and help others,” said Kelly French, DPA, vice president for strategy and impact and chief of staff. “It’s another way we demonstrate our commitment to our Catholic principles of social teaching and serving others.”
