Friends Sample Life of the College at 2023 Summer Seminar

This past weekend, 22 members of the Thomas Aquinas College President’s Council and other friends  got a taste of life at the college they so generously support at the annual Summer Seminar on the California campus. These benefactors lived in the residence halls, participated in the classroom discussions, and enjoyed the same warm collegial atmosphere that make campus life such an unforgettable experience.

“The Summer Seminars are a great way for friends of the College to learn more about the curriculum,” explains James Link, vice president for advancement. “Participants benefit from the kinds of texts our students read and from the kinds of conversations that happen every day in our classrooms.”

This year’s readings were taken from the four Gospels. The rationale behind the specific selections was both to highlight the differences between the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke (the so-called “Synoptic” Gospels) and the Gospel of John, and to reveal the profound theological unity underlying those differences. Under the guidance of Dr. Paul J. O’Reilly, president of the College, the visitors used the Discussion Method to bring both of those goals to fruition.

On Saturday evening, the visitors enjoyed fellowship, fine meals, and musical performances by current students — in short, a brief immersion in the pursuit of goodness, truth, and beauty that characterizes Thomas Aquinas College. “In the short time they’re here, seminar participants benefit in the same ways that our students benefit from the four-year program,” reflects Mr. Link. “It strengthens the bond they already have with the College, as well as their respect and appreciation for what we’re doing.”

Friends will have another opportunity to experience the life of the College again in September — at the Fall Seminar on the New England campus.