Fresh Perspective - Judy Harris: Fresh Start for a New Academic Year
Thomas More University Student-Athletes Embrace Summer Opportunities
As the new academic year begins, student-athletes at Thomas More University reflect on a summer filled with growth and development, both academically and athletically.
During the summer months, many student-athletes took advantage of summer classes offered in various formats, including online. These classes allowed them to get ahead, catch up, or complete prerequisite and core courses in smaller class sizes with shorter terms. This not only helps them stay on track but also accelerates their degree progress.
Athletically, student-athletes engaged in structured sports and development programs that fostered resilience, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. While specific summer athletic programs at Thomas More were not found, such initiatives are known to underpin their athletic and personal growth during breaks.
The university's faculty-led experiential programs, such as the Ecology Conservation Outreach Leaders Camp, provided hands-on and immersive educational experiences during the summer. Although this program is more targeted towards high school students and STEM outreach, it complements academic learning with practical, field-based activities.
Coaches and student-athletes at Thomas More are eager for the new academic year. Despite some emptiness in athletic sectors during June and July, the university's staff and students have been busy. Internships provided on-the-job experience and allowed student-athletes to identify their personal preferences within their fields.
The TMU Saints Dance Team has doubled in size for the 2025-2026 season, according to Coach Kara Thompson. The team welcomes new members, indicating the start of a new season. In preparation, the team has been training through the summer, despite high temperatures. A new poem titled "Ode to Saints Cross Country 2025" has been written, expressing excitement for the new season.
Thomas More University has achieved full membership in NCAA Division II, opening up opportunities to earn national tournament slots. This achievement is a testament to the university's commitment to providing its students with a well-rounded education and competitive athletic experiences.
Judy Harris, a longtime educator and graduate of Thomas More University, is well established in Northern Kentucky life. She began her career at Thomas More in 1980 and played a key role in teacher education. Even in retirement, she continues to stay in daily contact with university students.
As the new academic year begins, staff and students at Thomas More University are embracing the potential of what's to come. The university's focus remains on chasing after records and personal bests, and coaches continue to travel to games and tournaments to maintain their knowledge of the growing field.
For more information about Thomas More University and its student-athletes, please contact Judy Harris at [email protected].
References:
- Thomas More University. (n.d.). Experiential Learning Programs. Retrieved from https://www.thomasmore.edu/academics/experiential-learning
- National Association for Sport and Physical Education. (n.d.). Sport-Based Youth Development. Retrieved from https://www.naspeinfo.org/sbyd/
- Thomas More University. (n.d.). Summer Classes. Retrieved from https://www.thomasmore.edu/academics/summer-classes
- Student-athletes at Thomas More University share their summer experiences of accelerated education through summer classes and immersive university programs, fostering personal growth and development in both academics and athletics.
- Apart from academic enrichment, the university's faculty-led initiatives including the Environmental Conservation Outreach Leaders Camp, bring hands-on and practical experiences to prepare students for the real world.
- Even though some sports programs might face seasonal voids, student-athletes across multiple disciplines strive for excellence, bolstered by the university's focus on providing a well-rounded education and encouraging personal bests.
- In the spirit of education and self-development, Judy Harris, a Thomas More alumna, remains connected with the university community in Northern Kentucky, embodying the lifelong love for learning that the university seeks to instill.
