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About
Fidelity & ExcellenceThomas Aquinas College is unique among American colleges and universities, offering a faithfully Catholic education comprised entirely of the Great Books and classroom discussions.
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A Liberating Education
Truth MattersTruth, and nothing less, sets men free; and because truth is both natural and supernatural, the College’s curriculum aims at both natural and divine wisdom.
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A Catholic Life
Under the Light of FaithThe intellectual tradition and moral teachings of the Catholic Church infuse the whole life of Thomas Aquinas College, illuminating the curriculum and the community alike.
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Admission & Aid
Is TAC Right for You?Do you enjoy grappling with complex questions? Are you willing to engage in discussions about difficult concepts, with the truth as your ultimate goal?
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Students & Parents
Mind, Body & SpiritThere is always something to do at TAC — something worthwhile, something fulfilling, and something geared toward ever-greater spiritual and intellectual growth.
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Alumni & Careers
What Can You Do with a Liberal Education?Nothing speaks more to the versatility of the College’s academic program than the good that our alumni are doing throughout the Church and the world.
The Hon. J. Leon Holmes to Speak at 40th Anniversary Celebration for Students & Faculty
Judge Holmes has served as a United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas since July 19, 2004, and Chief Judge since 2005. He received his bachelor of arts from Arkansas State University in 1973, his master’s from Northern Illinois University in 1976, and his doctorate from Duke University in 1980. In 1982, he earned a juris doctor from the University of Arkansas, graduating first in his class.
From 1983 until July 2004 Judge Holmes practiced law privately, except for a two-year break from 1990 to 1992 — during which time he served as a member of the teaching faculty at Thomas Aquinas College. Although he soon returned to the practice of law, Judge Holmes’ relationship with the College continued. He and his wife, Susan, have five children, two of whom — Jeremy (’99) and Joseph (’09) — are graduates.
When President George W. Bush first nominated Judge Holmes to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas in 2003, the appointment aroused some controversy. There was no objection to Judge Holmes’ excellent credentials or legal record, but critics protested because he was a practicing Catholic and the former president of Arkansas Right to Life. Nonetheless Judge Holmes eventually won confirmation in the Democratic-controlled U.S. Senate — nearly 18 months after his nomination — after receiving the endorsement of his state’s two Democratic senators, who testified to his legal acumen and integrity.
“I remember Leon well as a colleague and as a parent, and he remains a good friend,” says President Michael F. McLean. “We were sorry to see him leave teaching, but we all had the utmost confidence that he would go on to do good work in the legal profession, as he has. We are delighted and honored that now, as a federal judge, he will return to campus to help us mark our 40th anniversary.”