Fresh Perspective - Judy Harris: Fresh Start for a New School Year
Thomas More University Gears Up for a Vibrant New Academic Year
As the summer comes to a close, Thomas More University is buzzing with energy and anticipation for the upcoming academic year. The student-athletes at the institution have been busy preparing for their upcoming seasons, using their summer breaks to focus on structured athletic development, competitive scrimmages, and team-related activities.
A highlight of this summer has been the writing of a poem titled "Ode to Saints Cross Country 2025." This piece, penned by an unnamed author, celebrates the upcoming season of the cross country team, expressing excitement for the upcoming season, welcoming new team members, and referencing the team's pursuit of records and personal bests.
The university's athletic sectors have remained active throughout June and July. Men's lacrosse player Graham Houser, for instance, participated in a "summer circuit" of competitive play that was crucial in his development and role on the team. His hard work paid off, as he secured a permanent starting position after impressing the coach during summer games.
Thomas More University's coaches have also been busy, hosting camps for young players, traveling to games and tournaments, and maintaining office hours during the summer. This dedication to the team's growth and development is evident in the university's recent achievement – full membership in NCAA Division II. This membership allows student-athletes to compete for national tournament slots.
The university community has also come together for social and sports-related gatherings. The annual Jack Hoerlein summer picnic, held at Thomas More Stadium, is one such example.
In addition to their athletic pursuits, student-athletes at Thomas More University have also been working during their summer break. Jobs ranging from outside maintenance to paid internships in their majors have kept them busy.
The TMU Saints Dance Team is another group that has been active this summer. Despite losing almost a third of its dancers and half of its nationally ranked competition squad due to graduation, the team has managed to double its size for the 2025-2026 season, setting another record.
As the new academic year begins, staff and students are embracing the potential it holds. "Move In Day" has already taken place, with upper classmen and teammates helping to settle dorm students. Judy Harris, a longtime educator and graduate of Thomas More, is looking forward to the new year.
Harris has played a key role in teacher education at Thomas More and has introduced students to national and international travel experiences. She can be reached at [email protected].
Coaches and student-athletes at Thomas More University are eager for the start of the new academic year, ready to continue their hard work and competitive spirit. Schools and campuses are once again filled with life, joy, energy, and vitality, marking the start of another exciting year at Thomas More University.
- Thomas More University's student-athletes have been participating in education-and-self-development activities during their summer breaks, such as athletes focusing on structured athletic development and competitive scrimmages.
- The coaches at Thomas More University have not only been preparing for the upcoming academic year but also hosting events for young players, traveling for games and tournaments, and maintaining their offices during the summer.
- In northern Kentucky, the annual Jack Hoerlein summer picnic was held at Thomas More Stadium, uniting the university community for a social and sports-related gathering.
- With the increasing number of students on the TMU Saints Dance Team and the full membership in NCAA Division II, the upcoming year promises opportunities for sports events and national tournament slots at Thomas More University.
