The University of St. Thomas climbed four places to rank No. 24 on the 2009 U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges” list of universities offering master’s degrees in the Western region of the United States.

The Amazing Story of Irish Hero John Boyle O’Reilly
Seán Tyrrell, Irish musician, singer, storyteller will present the story of Irish Hero John Boyle O’Reilly through song, music and poetry at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8 in Jones Hall, 3910 Yoakum Blvd.

Archbishop J. Michael Miller Lecture featuring Stephen McEveety Hollywood producer Stephen McEveety will speak about “Faith and Film,” at the 2008 Archbishop J. Michael Miller lecture 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 in Jones Hall, 3910 Yoakum. McEveety, an active Roman Catholic, has produced many films including Bella, Passion of the Christ, Braveheart, We Were Soldiers, Trip to Bountiful, Immortal Beloved, Payback, What Women Want.

Ethical Leadership in Action Award
Drayton McLane Jr., owner of the Houston Astros franchise and chairman of the McLane Group, has been named the 2008 recipient of the Ethical Leadership in Action Award. The Business Dialogue is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. followed by a luncheon at noon on Monday, Nov. 10 at Union Station at Minute Maid Park, 501 Crawford St.

Peavy Nursing Gift
Longtime friends and benefactors, Odis and Carol Peavy, owners of PV Rentals, have committed $2.5 million to help reintroduce a nursing program at the University of St. Thomas.