Attendees explored the collection, which was generously loaned by a Benedictine University alumnus. Highlights included correspondence and items connected to John Hancock, John Jay, James Madison, John Quincy Adams, George Clinton and others.

The collection belongs to Chris, a 1988 BenU alumnus who asked not to use his last name in order to protect the documents.

“I started collecting the papers and the documents. I would say probably 20 years ago,” Chris said. “The John Hancock piece was the centerpiece of my collection.”

Among the items on display was a land grant signed by George Clinton, a Founding Father who served as Vice President and was New York’s longest-serving Governor. The exhibit also included a John Hancock property document dated Dec. 13, 1771, and an original print of a 1776 magazine.

The event also featured lively entertainment. Choral-Aires delivered a lively barbershop performance, and Maze the Artist captivated the crowd with a live painting celebrating America’s legacy. The artwork created during the event will remain on campus as a lasting tribute.

The celebration extended beyond the lobby as well. In addition to the indoor exhibit in the Daniel L. Goodwin Hall of Business Lobby, the Benedictine Four Corners community came together to create a striking outdoor display. This collaboration, which includes Benedictine University, St. Procopius Abbey, Villa St. Benedict, Benedictine Sisters, and Benet Academy, resulted in 250 American flags being placed across the intersection of College Road and Maple Avenue. The display added a vibrant visual tribute to the celebration. It was a powerful symbol of what the Four Corners can accomplish when they work together, extending the event’s reach and inviting the entire community to participate in this historic commemoration.

Benedictine University President Joseph J. Foy, PhD, reflected on the significance of this collaboration.

“The Benedictine Four Corners represents something truly special about this community,” said Dr. Foy. “For generations, these institutions have shared a commitment to faith, education, and service. Events like this remind us of the strength we find when we work together. We are deeply grateful for our fellow Four Corners partners and look forward to continuing to strengthen these relationships in the years ahead.”

The University also extends its gratitude to the sponsors, volunteers, and all who attended for making this celebration so meaningful. The strong community turnout demonstrated the enduring interest in America’s founding history and the value of bringing such rare collections to the public.

The event drew attention from local media. NBC Chicago visited the exhibit and spoke with Chris about his collection, offering viewers a glimpse of the rare documents and the story behind them. WGN Radio also covered the event, highlighting the significance of bringing such historical treasures to the western suburbs.

To view the NBC Chicago segment or listen to the WGN Radio coverage, please visit the links below.

NBC Chicago:
WGN Radio:

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For BenU students preparing for Commencement, the Grad Fair offered a one-stop experience to get ready for the big day. Students were able to order their regalia, confirm their diploma mailing address, and pick up their Commencement tickets with ease. Several campus departments were on hand to assist, including Alumni and Career Services, Campus Ministry, Graduate Admissions, Ben Central, and the Registrar. Students also had the opportunity to take graduation photos with Grad Images and connect with Herff Jones for class rings, announcements, and diploma frames.

At the same time, students took full advantage of Job-A-Palooza, where a diverse lineup of employers was ready to connect. Students explored opportunities with a wide range of organizations, from corporate partners to public service agencies. The featured employers included Chicagoland Automotive Group, Carmody Construction, GreenState Credit Union, and Sherwin-Williams. Also in attendance were three regional health and hospital systems, 11 area police departments, Argonne National Laboratory, and many more.

The combination of graduation services and career connections made the day a valuable one for students across all class levels. Soon-to-be graduates left with their commencement details in order, while students from every major walked away with new professional contacts and a clearer picture of the opportunities available to them.

A sincere thank you goes to the premium sponsors who supported this event: Chicagoland Automotive Group, Carmody Construction, GreenState Credit Union, and Sherwin-Williams. Their partnership helped make this engaging and productive experience possible for our students.

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The reception provided a meaningful opportunity for University leadership, including President Joseph J. Foy, PhD, to personally express gratitude and share the collective vision for Benedictine’s future. The evening underscored the profound connection between donor generosity and student success, highlighting how this partnership directly fuels opportunity and innovation across campus.

In reflecting on the event, Vice President for University Advancement Mark McHorney emphasized the essential role these partners play.

“The strength and commitment of our Benedictine University family was on full display,” said McHorney. “Our President’s Circle donors are the architects of opportunity here. Their partnership does more than support the University. It actively builds the future for our students and energizes our entire community.”

The President’s Circle recognizes those whose leadership-giving provides the critical resources that advance scholarships, academic programs, and campus facilities. The holiday reception serves as a touchstone each year to celebrate this shared commitment and the tangible impact that resonates across the University every day.

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