Rt. Rev. Monsignor Michael Leick

Dean and President of Villa Madonna College (1928-1943)

Monsignor Michael Leick played a pivotal role in the founding and early development of Villa Madonna College, which would later become Thomas More University. A deeply committed educator and priest, Leick was instrumental in uniting several Catholic teaching communities under one diocesan college. His leadership from 1928 until his death in 1943 established a foundation for Catholic higher education in Northern Kentucky. Leick’s work extended beyond administration; he was a teacher, scholar, and mentor whose commitment to education and faith shaped generations of students. 

Father Leick was both an administrator and an academic. He taught Religion, Latin, and Philosophy, while also supervising faculty development and the expansion of the college’s library resources. His scholarship and dedication to academic standards helped ensure that Villa Madonna College gained recognition for its academic excellence. 

Father Leick’s largest project was the adoption of diocesan normal school for Sisters’ education. Under Villa Madonna’s charter, he created the Normal School division in 1928. Through this mission, he united the Benedictine Sisters, Sisters of Divine Providence, and Sisters of Notre Dame into a collaborative governance structure. One year later, in 1929, Father Leick was appointed Dean and Rector of Villa Madonna College in 1929, leading the institution through its formative years. His commitment to Catholic higher education led to his elevation to Domestic Prelate (Monsignor) by Pope Pius XI.

Monsignor Leick is remembered as a dedicated priest, educator, and visionary administrator whose leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the mission and identity of Villa Madonna College. In recognition of his enduring impact, former students established the Monsignor Leick Memorial Endowment Fund, which later became part of the broader Villa Madonna College Endowment Fund. His legacy continues through the enduring educational mission and Catholic tradition of Thomas More University.