April 17, 2024

Dear Thomas More community,

As the Catholic liberal arts university of the Diocese of Covington, our institution is uniquely positioned in its eminence and influence on Catholic education in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati communities.

Today the Most Rev. John C. Iffert, bishop of Covington, has announced the exploration of an affiliation between Covington Latin School and Thomas More University – two storied diocesan institutions dedicated to excellence in Catholic education.

A team that includes members of the diocesan Curia and Thomas More University will explore the process and benefits of affiliation. Mrs. Kendra McGuire, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Covington, and Dr. Kevin Reynolds, senior vice president for mission and University advancement for Thomas More University, will lead this effort. This affiliation is expected to begin with the 2025–2026 academic year. 

Under the plans for affiliation, Covington Latin School will become part of the University in academic year 2025-26. Plans are underway to strategically align academic, financial, technological, and human resources, with the goal of ensuring the advancement of the Catholic mission of Covington Latin School for long-term success.

I remain committed to the vision set forth in our Strategic Plan: Lighting the Way – leading Thomas More University into its second century with agility and innovation and fortifying its position as the regional leader in Catholic higher education.

This is an exciting time as we are beginning to realize that vision. University-affiliated high schools have a proven track record of success in the United States. As the first private model in Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati region, this affiliation has the potential to create a new innovative approach for Catholic education and expanding the pipeline of high achieving students to the University.

While plans for affiliation are explored, committees have been formed in a range of focuses, including finance, communication, academics, accreditation, and strategy. These committees will expand this summer with additions of trustees, faculty (including Education VILLA) and staff as we engage in thoughtful conversation to create a new strategic vision for Covington Latin School.

Knowing we have a significant number of alumni who are also Covington Latin graduates adds to the excitement of this announcement. With deep roots and close ties for over a century, this is a meaningful opportunity to further our commitment to academic excellence and innovation while preserving a treasured tradition in our region.

With best regards,

President Joseph L. Chillo, LP.D.