Established in 2011, URSA was created to expand opportunities for undergraduates to lead or collaborate on research projects alongside faculty mentors. Now in its fifteenth year, the event has grown into a cornerstone of BenU’s academic calendar, and the 2026 symposium proved to be one of the most vibrant yet.

From noon-4:30 p.m., Goodwin Hall hosted a packed schedule of oral presentations across three rooms (211, 212, and 213), with three concurrent time blocks running from noon until the late afternoon. Topics ranged from police perceptions of community-oriented policing and the role of music in Native American identity to existentialist analyses of eating disorders, echo chambers on social media, CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors, and the racialized lens of medical illustration. The presentations reminded all in attendance that URSA interprets “scholarship” in the broadest possible sense.

Meanwhile, the first-floor lobby transformed into a bustling gallery of discovery during the poster session, held from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Poster topics ranged from Wolbachia bacteria in arthropods and the neurotoxic effects of microplastics on the brain to AI-driven goose deterrent systems for Lake St. Benedict, the relationship between personality traits and social deduction games, and a winter clothing drive supporting survivors of domestic violence.

Students from the natural sciences presented research findings on large-format posters, while peers from the humanities and arts displayed original creative work, including visual art installations and descriptions of original musical compositions.

Faculty, staff, and students filled the hallways and session rooms, offering thoughtful questions and enthusiastic support. For many presenters, URSA served as a vital “dry-run” for larger regional conferences later this spring. But for all involved, the event was a celebration of what happens when BenU students are given a stage to share their curiosity.

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Gus and Alice is a new comedy that follows a married couple of more than 50 years. Gus and Alice have a comfortable routine built on togetherness and good-natured bickering. Their dynamic changes unexpectedly one night at dinner when Alice suggests they sell their house and move into a retirement community. What follows includes game nights, tea dates between longtime friends, conversations about gluten and cats, some bad singing, and debates over the merits of wearing pants.

Rago, a Chicago native, said he and the cast are excited to bring the show home. BenU is proud to see continued success from one of our alumni, and we celebrate Mike’s creative achievements on stage. When asked what advice he would give to current Benedictine students and alumni interested in creative writing or theater, Rago emphasized persistence and passion.

“Never stop writing,” he said. “Write about anything and everything. And when inspiration hits, write right then and there. 2am, 7am, 4pm, on the train, out for a walk, whatever and wherever. Sometimes it’s like lightning striking and you have to capture it in the moment.”

He also encouraged those pursuing theater to keep acting in all kinds of roles and settings, from community theatre to New York.

“Persistence pays off,” Rago added. “Like anything else, hard work and consistency during the ups and downs are key. And always give yourself grace. There will be good days and hard days. Give yourself grace, take a breath, then go back at it.”

To purchase tickets, visit the Greenhouse Theater box office .

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For 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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President Scott has served as the 12th permanent president of Chicago State University since July 1, 2018, guiding the institution through a period of historic renewal and strategic growth. As the only four-year U.S. Department of Education-designated Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) in Illinois, CSU has flourished under her leadership, embracing a bold new direction as a regional public university powerhouse. A national voice for equity in higher education, President Scott co-founded the National Coalition of Predominantly Black Institutions of Higher Education and helped launch the first-ever Congressional PBI Caucus.

During her visit, President Scott shared insights from her own leadership journey, offering a candid look at the experiences that shaped her approach to guiding an institution through transformation and advocating for equity. Her distinguished legal career has earned her national recognition, and she has been named one of Crain’s Chicago Business’ Most Powerful Women in Chicago Business. The discussion provided attendees with a unique opportunity to learn from a leader whose career spans law, public service, and higher education.

A central theme of the talk was practical advice for students looking to excel in their studies and achieve their goals. President Scott emphasized the importance of resilience, intentionality, and building strong support networks. She encouraged students to remain focused on their purpose, to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and to actively seek mentorship throughout their academic and professional careers.

The event underscored Benedictine University’s commitment to fostering leadership development and providing students with access to diverse perspectives. President Scott’s visit left a lasting impression on the audience, offering valuable takeaways for all who attended.

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After an impressive showing in the opening rounds of the national tournament in Texas, the Redhawks secured their place in the Sweet 16 with a thrilling 99–94 Round Two victory. The team’s determination and teamwork carried them through a hard-fought game and earned them a spot among the final teams still competing for a national title.

Earlier today, the BenU Mesa community gathered for a small but heartfelt send-off as the team departed for Kansas City. Students, faculty, and supporters stopped by to wish the Redhawks well and send them off with plenty of encouragement as they continue their postseason run.

The Redhawks will face Faulkner University (AL) in the Sweet 16 matchup on March 19 at 12:00 pm CST. It’s another big moment for the program and an exciting opportunity for the team to keep their national championship hopes alive.

Congratulations to the Redhawks on an outstanding season so far, and best of luck as they take the court in Kansas City.

Read the full game recap .

Go Redhawks!

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Sponsored by Lilly Endowment Inc. and administered through the Lilly Network of Church-Related Colleges and Universities, the Lilly Faculty Fellows Program is designed to nurture faculty leadership, strengthen the integration of faith and learning, and support the development of mission-centered teaching and campus programming. Fellows participate in multi-year cohorts that provide structured mentoring, attendance at national Lilly conferences, collaborative seminars, and resources to design high-impact projects that advance institutional mission, faculty formation, and student learning.

As Lilly Faculty Fellows, Drs. Granic and McCarthy will lead a campus initiative titled “Serving Together: Benedictine Leadership Through Community Action.” The project brings together faculty from the humanities and the sciences on both the Lisle and Mesa campuses to model interdisciplinary leadership grounded in the Rule of St. Benedict and Catholic Social Teaching. Through a series of presentations, roundtable discussions, and collaborative workshops with academic mentors and community partners, the initiative will generate innovative curricular approaches that integrate ethical reflection, service learning, and evidence-based inquiry. Faculty participants will work across disciplines and across Benedictine University’s Lisle and Mesa campuses to develop assignments that encourage students to practice deep listening, hospitality, shared decision-making, and responsible action for the common good.

This recognition is especially meaningful for BenU as a Catholic institution rooted in the Benedictine tradition. The Lilly Faculty Fellows Program directly supports the University’s mission by fostering faculty leadership that integrates intellectual rigor, moral formation, and service to others. Drs. Granic and McCarthy’s project reflects core Benedictine values—Community, Ora et Labora, Respect for Persons, and Stewardship—while strengthening collaboration across disciplines and campuses. Their work will help form students not only as skilled professionals, but as ethically grounded leaders inspired by faith, reason, and a commitment to the common good.

Benedictine University congratulates Drs. Granic and McCarthy on this significant achievement and looks forward to the lasting impact their Lilly Faculty Fellowship will have on faculty, students, and the wider University community.

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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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The BRAID Fellowship selects a diverse national cohort of students each year. Fellows receive advanced training, mentorship, and funding to develop and lead interfaith bridgebuilding projects on their campuses.

The fellowship aligns closely with BenU’s mission and values, particularly its commitment to community, hospitality, and the common good. As a BRAID Fellow, Alch will design and facilitate a campus project aimed at building respect and collaborative relationships across different faiths, worldviews, and backgrounds.

Interfaith America states that the fellowship aims to equip students with “the vital skills, training, education, and experience they need to become interfaith bridgebuilding leaders on their campuses and in their communities.” Fellows learn principles of interfaith cooperation and develop practical leadership capacities through community-based learning and project implementation.

Alch will begin the fellowship with pre-work this winter and continue through the Interfaith Leadership Summit in August 2026. The Benedictine University community looks forward to supporting her journey and the impactful dialogue her work will inspire on campus.

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The service focused on the historical and spiritual significance of the Marian apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917, which are formally approved by the Catholic Church. The program also reflected on the subsequent private revelations experienced by the visionary Sr. Lucia de Jesus Rosa dos Santos.

A central feature of the evening was the presence of a replica of the International Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima. In a solemn moment during the ceremony, President Joseph J. Foy, PhD, placed a crown upon the statue, a traditional act of devotion and honor.

Following the crowning, the assembled guests joined together to pray the Rosary. The communal prayer offered a time for quiet meditation and unity. The evening concluded with a warm reception in the lobby of Lownik Hall, allowing attendees to fellowship and discuss the significance of the event.

For those seeking further academic resources on Marian studies, information can be found through the and the .

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Over the years, he has maintained research collaborations and visiting faculty appointments with those two institutions, as well as the Synchrotron Radiation Center associated with the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Dr. Marin maintains a vibrant research agenda, with over 50 peer-reviewed publications. As a spectroscopist truly working at the boundary between physics and chemistry, Dr. Marin’s work has ranged from ultrafast photophysics to radiation-induced fast kinetics, radiation- and photo-induced radical chemistry, and vacuum ultraviolet spectroscopy. He has served on various committees and in many roles for the American Chemical Society (ACS), both at the local and national level, including Chair of the Chicago Section and member of the National ACS Council.

A strong supporter of the liberal arts tradition in Catholic higher education, Dr. Marin enjoys exploring the “great questions” that lie at the interface of science, theology, and philosophy. To that end, he also serves as Vice President and founder of the Chicago area chapter of the Society of Catholic Scientists. In his spare time, Dr. Marin is busy is a semi-professional musician, and serves as musical director, arranger, and bassist for the Nite Hawks jazz combo, the Tim Marin Orchestra, and the Chi-Town Showstoppers R&B/soul band.

“I am honored to be elected to this role. The Lilly Network has been a true friend to Benedictine University, generously supporting programs that bring our Catholic and Benedictine mission to life,” said Dr. Marin. “Serving on their National Board is a meaningful way for me to give back and to express my gratitude for the remarkable generosity they have shown both to the University and to my own professional journey.”

Dr. Marin’s appointment as a Lilly Faculty Fellow is a point of great pride for BenU. His selection reflects the very integration of rigorous scholarship, faithful exploration, and dedicated service that we strive to embody as a Catholic and Benedictine institution. Dr. Marin’s work in advancing scientific discovery and in thoughtfully engaging the dialogue between science and faith exemplifies our commitment to educating the whole person and contributing to the greater good. We are confident he will bring valuable insight to the Lilly Network and are delighted to see his exceptional contributions recognized in this national forum.

Founded in 1991, the Lilly Network (formerly the Lilly Fellows Program) seeks to strengthen the quality and shape the character of church-related institutions of higher learning through a variety of fellowships and regranting efforts. The Lilly Network is based at Christ College, the interdisciplinary honors college of Valparaiso University in Northwest Indiana, and is sustained by the generous support of Lilly Endowment Inc. Benedictine University joined the Lilly Network in 1999.

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