By Steve Oldfield
NKyTribune staff writer
The Thomas More University community celebrated the unveiling of a new statue of its
namesake, Thomas More, while honoring Will Ziegler, the distinguished alumnus and major donor who made it happen.
“What an incredible occasion to honor both our patron saint and the legacy and patronage of such an incredible leader and servant of others, Will Ziegler,” said Kevin Reynolds, senior vice-president for strategic growth at Thomas More.
“We are grateful to Will and wife Ellen Ziegler for their enduring commitment to Thomas More
University and to the values that unite us,” university president Joseph Chillo told the audience at the ceremony. “Their generosity helps ensure that our mission will continue to flourish.”
Ziegler graduated from Thomas More (then Villa Madonna College) back in 1953. He went on to become a successful lawyer and educator along with gaining a reputation for being a generous leader and benefactor. He led the Second Century capital campaign that resulted in the university’s new academic center, exceeding the financial goals.
“Will is a faithful servant to his faith and Thomas More University,” said Jean Mize, chief operating officer for the R.C. Durr Foundation, who has worked with Ziegler on many projects over the years. “I think this statue project may be his favorite because it was a personal gift.”
The Zieglers first donated the funds for the statue back in 2020, commissioning local sculptor Matt Langford.
“Today is very special,” said the 92-year-old Ziegler. “My greatest hope was to live long enough to be here to see it unveiled.”
Langford said he first thought about creating a statue honoring Thomas More 15 years ago and that he was honored to pay tribute to the saint and martyr who was a noted scholar and statesman. More was executed in 1535 for refusing to recognize English King Henry VIII as the head of the Church of England.
“I tried to capture his intellect, his intensity and renaissance status,” said Langford.
In addition to unveiling the statue, President Chillo presented Ziegler with an honorary doctor of Laws degree. Ziegler’s name will also grace the university’s academic center, where the impressive statue of Thomas More will welcome visitors.
“I never in my life expected to see my name on the building,” Ziegler said.
President Chillo called it an honor that is well deserved.
“His life offers an important lesson for our students and for all of us: the true measure of an education is not simply what we accomplish,” said Chillo. “It is how we use our knowledge, talents, and opportunities to improve the lives of others.”
“I received many benefits while I was growing up from many, many people to whom I can’t even say thank you,” Ziegler said. “The best way to recognize their efforts is to give forward.”
