CRESTVIEW HILLS, Ky. — Monsignor William Cleves will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree at Thomas More University's 2026 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 16, where he also will deliver the commencement address.

Cleves served as the university's 11th president from 1992 to 2001, during which he oversaw significant institutional growth and development. His tenure included expanding the university's international outreach program to welcome students from Japan, Scotland, Germany, Ireland, and Puerto Rico, as well as launching the Thomas More Accelerated Program and the Quest Program. He also oversaw construction of the Saints football stadium and the Saints Center, and supervised a successful reaccreditation process by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Before becoming president, Cleves began his career at the institution in 1983 as an instructor in philosophy. He was appointed assistant professor of philosophy in 1986 and became associate professor in 1990. During his early years, he also taught in the Languages Department, served as Faculty General Assembly president twice, and was the university chaplain from 1987 to 1992. In 1987, university students elected Cleves as the "Outstanding Full-time Teacher of the Year."

"I'm deeply honored to receive this degree," said Cleves, who was named President Emeritus in 2025. "Throughout my time at Thomas More, I have been blessed to witness the University continue to grow and flourish while remaining rooted in our Catholic Intellectual Tradition."

Currently a pastor at Holy Spirit Parish in Newport, Cleves also serves as a moderator and panelist of the William T. Robinson III Institute for Religious Liberty at Thomas More. Thomas More President Joseph L. Chillo said Cleves' dedication to the university "embodies the very heart of what makes our University so special — an unwavering commitment to faith, academic excellence, and service to others."