Celebrating Sandy Cleveland: Living Proof That It’s Never Too Late to Achieve Your Dreams

On June 9, members of Thomas More’s Institutional Advancement, Marketing & Communications, and Graduate Enrollment & Advising teams sat down with alumna Sandy Cleveland ‘21, ‘24, ’25 to learn more about her experience at Thomas More and her journey to achieve her educational goals.

At 78 years old, first-generation college student Sandy earned her Master of Business Administration in May 2026—her third degree from Thomas More University, following the completion of both her associate and bachelor’s degrees. Demonstrating a lifelong commitment to learning, she is now considering pursuing a doctoral degree.

Thomas More Team Members: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background and how you ended up at Thomas More.

Sandy: My higher education journey began at Northern Kentucky University where I studied accounting for two years. Then our pediatrician recommended that I postpone school to care for our son who was ill at the time.

Years later my husband and I started a commercial general contracting company where I gained a lot of industry experience but wasn’t able to take the time to pursue my education.

TMTM: Who or what inspired you to pursue your degree/education?

S: I worked for the City of Edgewood City Administrator, and he set a great example for our office and was a genuine inspiration for me.

I also wanted to improve my life and gain more work knowledge and Thomas More provided me with this and so much more. I now understand how the global market operates and the benefits it provides to businesses in our country.

TMTM: What led you to Thomas More?

S: I was seeking a private education, and I knew the campus would provide a learning environment as well as offer exceptional opportunities in the community and future work endeavors.  I appreciated having both traditional and online classes that allowed younger and older students to study together. I also was impressed with the number of different undergraduate and graduate degrees the University offers.

In terms of location, the University was easily accessible and close to both my home and work.

TMTM: What was your experience with your professors and advisor like?

S: The professors were always professional, responsive, and extremely helpful. They also made an extreme effort to align students with job opportunities after graduation.

Whenever I came to my advisor, Kelsey Wicher, she was ALWAYS willing to take time to help me. She has been a complete joy in my life, and I cannot thank her enough. I am extremely grateful.

TMTM: What else would you like people to know about your experience at Thomas More and/or Thomas More in general?

S: I just feel privileged to have earned my degrees at Thomas More and I truly believe that the genuine strength of the University affords anyone possibilities and hope for a brighter future. For me, I know I chose the right university and I’m very happy and proud of my decision.

“Sandy is a true inspiration for students of all ages,” said Stephanie Burnside ’24, ’26, Assistant Director of Advancement Services. “She embodies the spirit of Thomas More and understands the transformative value of a Catholic higher education. We are proud of her many accomplishments and all that she has achieved.”

“I feel honored to work with Sandy throughout her academic/educational journey,” said Kelsey Wicher, Executive Director of Graduate Enrollment & Advising. “Her passion for learning is an inspiration to all and is a great example of the lifelong pursuit of knowledge we seek to foster in all of our students.”