Thomas More University suspended normal daytime classes and campus activities Oct. 13 so more than 1,100 participants could volunteer across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati.

The Crestview Hills university's seventh Saints Serve Day sent students, faculty, staff, alumni and trustees to 58 nonprofit and civic organizations, according to the university. The City of Crestview Hills was among the partner sites.

The tradition, established in 2021, asks participants to take a "day on, rather than a day off." Normal campus activities were suspended so all traditional students and employees could take part.

Joseph L. Chillo, president of Thomas More University, called service and stewardship two of the university's four "Characteristics of a Saint," alongside hospitality and humility.

"When we serve we discover that even small acts of kindness can make a lasting difference," Chillo said. He added that he hopes Saints Serve "becomes more than a day on the calendar" and instead "becomes a habit of the heart."

Kelly French, senior vice president and university dean, said the day reflects the university's commitment to Catholic social teaching and its "shared responsibility to care for others."

Volunteers signed up to help organizations with deep local ties. Among the 58 partners were Brighton Center, Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky, Kenton County Conservation District, Kenton County Library, Habitat for Humanity, Parish Kitchen, Freestore Food Bank and Meals on Wheels. The list also included Cincinnati-area groups such as the Cincinnati Nature Center and Great Parks of Hamilton County.

Other partner organizations ranged from Carmel Manor and Madonna Manor to La Soupe, Master Provisions, Matthew 25 Ministries and the Sisters of Divine Providence. Housing Opportunities of Northern Kentucky, New Hope Center and Lydia's House also hosted volunteers.

The next Saints Serve Day is scheduled for April 13, 2027. Organizations interested in becoming a partner site can visit tmuky.us/serve.

Upcoming community dates

  • April 13, 2027: Thomas More University's next Saints Serve Day. Partner site sign-ups at tmuky.us/serve.