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About
Fidelity & ExcellenceThomas Aquinas College is unique among American colleges and universities, offering a faithfully Catholic education comprised entirely of the Great Books and classroom discussions.
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A Liberating Education
Truth MattersTruth, and nothing less, sets men free; and because truth is both natural and supernatural, the College’s curriculum aims at both natural and divine wisdom.
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A Catholic Life
Under the Light of FaithThe intellectual tradition and moral teachings of the Catholic Church infuse the whole life of Thomas Aquinas College, illuminating the curriculum and the community alike.
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Admission & Aid
Is TAC Right for You?Do you enjoy grappling with complex questions? Are you willing to engage in discussions about difficult concepts, with the truth as your ultimate goal?
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Students & Parents
Mind, Body & SpiritThere is always something to do at TAC — something worthwhile, something fulfilling, and something geared toward ever-greater spiritual and intellectual growth.
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Alumni & Careers
What Can You Do with a Liberal Education?Nothing speaks more to the versatility of the College’s academic program than the good that our alumni are doing throughout the Church and the world.
Napa Institute Discussion Seminar
“Origin of the Rights Enumerated in the Declaration”
A Seminar Hosted by Thomas Aquinas College
Napa Institute 2026 Summer Conference
“A More Perfect Union”
Thursday, July 23 | 8:00 – 9:15 a.m.
Meritage Resort | Napa, California
Carneros Salon B
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Is it evident that our inalienable rights come from God? Despite the rhetoric of the Declaration, would it be better to understand, as Senator Tim Kaine has asserted, that our rights come from government? He claims that “equal justice under the law” is a better founding principle than a vague statement of equality and natural rights.
James Wilson, one of only two founders who signed both the Declaration and the Constitution, clarifies the meaning of equality and liberty found in the Declaration.
Perhaps more than ever, we need to wrestle with the origin and limits of rights. It is fitting as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation to have a clearer understanding of our founding principles.
Dr. Paul J. O’Reilly, president of Thomas Aquinas College and a 35-year veteran of its teaching faculty, and Dr. John Goyette, the College's vice president of advancement and fellow accomplished faculty member, will lead this breakout session, where attendees will analyze these short, highly accessible readings, in a seminar modeled after the College’s classroom conversations. Please be sure to read the text ahead of time!
Open to all conference attendees!
