Thomas College

Thomas College stands as a dynamic institution with a rich history rooted in practical, career-oriented education. What began over a century ago as a training ground for aspiring professionals has evolved into a comprehensive college dedicated to preparing students for the challenges of the modern workforce. Prospective students will find a vibrant campus culture that balances academic rigor with real-world application, fostering an environment where innovation and personal growth thrive.

The institution's journey began in 1894 as Keist Business College, a forward-thinking, co-educational establishment focused on career training in Waterville. After evolving through various names like Morgan Business College and Morgan-Thomas Business College, it became Thomas Junior College in 1950, reflecting its expanding scope. This dedication to practical business education for accountants and secretaries for half a century laid the foundation for the college's enduring commitment to student success.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1962 when it officially became Thomas College, soon after gaining the right to confer four-year degrees in 1963. This era marked significant expansion, including the construction of the Mariner Library and a theater, and a strategic relocation in 1966 to a spacious 70-acre campus along the Kennebec River. This move provided the infrastructure needed to support a growing student body and an increasingly diverse academic portfolio.

More recently, Thomas College has continued its trajectory of progressive leadership, notably inaugurating its first woman and alumna president in 2012, Laurie G. Lachance, followed by Dr. Jeannine Diddle Uzzi in 2025. The college's commitment to its community and its faculty was also highlighted in October 2025 when full-time faculty voted to unionize, affiliating with the Maine Education Association, signifying an active and engaged campus community responsive to the evolving needs of its members.