Thomas More University, founded in 1921 as a private Catholic institution in Crestview Hills, Kentucky, serves over 2,300 students in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region. Recently named one of the 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S. by the Wall Street Journal, the university continues to innovate and grow.
In the spring of 2022, Thomas More’s leadership embarked on a mission to revitalize the campus with a new academic facility. Collaborating with OstermanCron and Kimball International, the university brought its vision for the academic center to life, creating a space that honors its 100-year legacy while embracing the future.
Kelly French, Vice President for Strategy & Impact and Chief of Staff at Thomas More University, emphasized the importance of their partnership with Kimball International in furnishing the new academic center.
"We selected Kimball International for our new academic center based on a combination of quality, service, and a commitment to student-centered design. One of the key factors in our decision was their ability to provide high-quality, locally made products that offer durability and comfort for our students in a variety of settings. Their thoughtfully designed furniture not only meets our aesthetic and functional requirements but also enhances the overall student experience by prioritizing comfort and accessibility for all students."
The new academic center spans 34,000 square feet across four floors and houses the College of Business, Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Center for Faith, Mission, and Catholic Education, and the Institute for Religious Liberty. It features state-of-the-art classrooms, study spaces, meeting rooms, faculty offices, specialized labs, a coffee shop, and a 400-seat auditorium that serves as the university’s primary event space. From casual lounge seating and flexible huddle zones to formal meeting spaces and tiered classroom settings crafted through the ByDesign program, Kimball International’s solutions have transformed the new facility with multifunctional spaces that support blended learning and prioritize well-being.
“Beyond the product itself, we value the trusted relationship we developed with Kimball International, as they provided exceptional service throughout the selection process,” French said. “Their team was attentive, helping us navigate various options to ensure we chose the best solutions for our spaces. Their expertise and customer-focused approach made them an ideal partner in furnishing our campus with high-quality, functional, and inclusive pieces that create an inviting and supportive learning environment."
Thomas More University’s new academic facility stands as a symbol of their dedication to providing an exceptional educational experience, preparing students for a lifetime of success and personal growth. Kimball International is proud to have played a role in creating this inspiring and transformative space.
