My four years at Benedictine were without a doubt the fastest years of my life. Walking through the line of teachers on graduation day was a surreal experience. At one point in the ceremony, Dr. Carroll made a statement that really resonated with me. He told the graduating class that the reason they came to Benedictine was so that they could one day leave it. Even as a graduating senior, that thought had never occurred to me. I was so comfortable, busy and entertained as a student that I did not often think about graduation. For me, Benedictine was not a place I had to attend so that I could move on in the world, but rather a home-away-from-home.

My expectation as an incoming freshman was to get an education that would prepare me for my goal of attending medical school. I did not expect to have an abbot as my freshmen advisor or a chemistry teacher who cared enough to tutor me over the phone at 7:00 a.m. on a Sunday before an exam. I did not expect to work for three years for a boss who became a friend. I didn't know that I would become the president of the Programming Board, and then move on to become a resident assistant. I never expected to canoe the slough, play hide-and-seek in the basement of Birck before it was renovated or pull so many legitimate all-nighters. In the end, I learned a lot more than science. Benedictine offered so much more than I expected, and I find myself grateful to everyone who came before I did to make the school what it was, as well as to those with whom I spent my time. 

Janet Bilder, Health Science, C09

Graduation was an amazing and wonderful experience. I felt very accomplished and proud of myself. Also, the graduation ceremony gave me hope for the future.

I will miss the Benedictine community, including the faculty, staff and students who have all embraced me and helped me prepare for my future. The University has offered me a strong education in order to fulfill my career goals to be a cardiovascular surgeon.

My advice for future graduates is to get involved and don't miss your graduation ceremony!

Sarah Randa Salim, Health Science, C09

I remember the excitement of graduation and finally completing the long ordeal. It was a tough four years and I felt a real sense of accomplishment. St. Procopius was like family to me. I had a lot of friends whom I could depend on when times were tough. I knew the sense of belonging to this family would help me in the future years, and it did just that.

I miss the times we just sat around and talked. I miss the intramural activities in which my friends and I were active participants. Finally, I miss the monks. They were more than priests, they were brothers, they were friends and they were family.

I would advise recent graduates that they have only just begun their education. These last few years have given them a base of knowledge and the ability to know where to go and get answers. The experiences that they will have in their chosen profession and social settings will continue their education to the end of their lives. Good luck and enjoy. 

Ken Uhlarik, Chemistry, C63

When I stood up at the end of graduation and listened to Dr. Carroll's closing speech, he said that when we go out into the world we are going to face challenges and see a lot of problems. He said that he had seen a lot of challenges and problems, but that we would see worse than he had seen.  This really struck me. 

Being the first Theology major at Benedictine was a lot of hard work for me, but because of my major, I know that when I go out into the world and face these moral issues and problems that I have to make the world a better place. Dr. Carroll said that we have to change the world, and that is something that is important to me because I worked hard at Benedictine and whatever I do out in the world, I will make the world a better place and follow God. 

Pope John Paul II said in his encyclical, Ex Corde Ecclesiae, “If need be, a Catholic university must have the courage to speak uncomfortable truths which do not please public opinion, but which are necessary to safeguard the authentic good of society.” This shows what Dr. Carroll was saying at graduation because we have to use our Catholic faith to stop evil, help people and make the world a better place even when secular society resists it. 

To me, doing this is truly being successful, which is what Dr. Ludema talked about in his speech. I know that as I go out into the world, I will use my faith to help change it for the better. 

David Ebeling, Theology and Philosophy, C09

Benedictine helped to instill a high-quality work ethic and more advanced communication skills that would allow me to form networks, pass licensing exams and take more challenges head-on.  These are highly desirable qualities that will help anyone to advance both personally and professionally, and I believe that Benedictine created an environment that helped to cultivate such qualities. 

I miss seeing classmates and staff members on a day-to-day basis. I can always go back and visit – and I do frequently, whether as a guest speaker or just to drop by; but my time there is more limited. 

If I had it to do over again, I’d have spent a considerable amount of time building and maintaining a network. My regret is forgetting names or phone numbers of people that I used to spend a lot of time with. It is the people, just as much as the education, that can help make an individual successful in today’s environment. I would advise current students to start building their networks now, and to keep in touch with everyone as time passes. 
  
Matthew A. Krajniak, Finance, C04

The most important thing I learned from Benedictine in preparation for going out into the world was to do my absolute best. If something did not turn out perfectly but turned out well enough to be built upon, well, do that and move along to the next challenge or prospective achievement.

Although I have said for years that the new buildings are excellent, I do miss Benedictine Hall standing high in its place among the red and golden colors of autumn, surrounded by the lush green that framed it in spring and summer, or when it bravely faced down a winter storm.

My advice for recent graduates is to stay interested in everything in life and the world. Too often we acquire a narrow work specialty and become so busy we let ourselves develop a narrow life. Keep an open mind to whatever you can see or learn about. It all fits in somewhere and keeps your intelligence firing on all six cylinders! 

David Fischer, Psychology, C76

I remember walking through the faculty on the way to the seating area. It was a wonderful experience to thank and receive heartfelt congratulations from the people who helped me earn my degree.

I came to Benedictine as an adult student in the middle of my career, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I am surprised how frequently I use the things I learned now, and I believe my education has made me more valuable to my clients.

Since graduating, I miss the daily interaction with the students and faculty. As adults, we tend to bog down in our daily work. As a student, it was nice to be challenged in different ways because it exercised your creativity, your analytical skills and your ability to work with people with different skills and experiences.

I would advise current students to take advantage of every opportunity. Join a club, participate in the Model U.N. or learn how to say “hello” from someone who speaks another language. Never miss a chance to expand your horizons.
  
Brian S. McDaniel, Business and Economics, C08

Graduation is one my proudest memories. Everything you work for in college pays off at graduation. Celebrating your hard work in the presence of your family, friends, peers and Benedictine's faculty really instills a sense of pride and accomplishment within you. It was definitely one of the best days of my life!

Benedictine’s faculty is one of a kind. The teachers truly care about you. Not only do they care, they are some of the most accomplished and experienced individuals in their field. All of the teachers in the Psychology department were vital to my success at Benedictine. They were always there to help me, inspire me and support me. It never felt like a burden to ask for help. I will also miss the pianos in the practice rooms in Krasa’s basement. I grew there a lot as a musician and spent a majority of my time down there for my minor in music.

Benedictine’s liberal arts education has prepared me for our very diverse world and exposed me to different subject areas. I have also taken away the core Benedictine values from attending the University. I have grown as a leader during my time at the University and will apply this leadership in the real world.

I would advise current students to stay focused and to realize they have the rest of their lives to party. Try to find a balance between work and play in college – it’s the healthiest way to succeed. The four years really fly by fast, so enjoy them. It is also important to take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities that are presented to them and become involved. Most importantly, they should work hard and to their fullest potential.

Sean Callahan, Psychology, C09

When I think about my graduation, I recall the sense of closeness with those in my graduating class, especially my fellow Political Science majors. Not only did we share many classes together, but many great memories. 
I believe that Benedictine provided me with the necessary skills and education to confidently go out into the world knowing that I could accomplish many great things. It also instilled in me a greater appreciation for art, culture and a need for a strong moral compass.
The great intangible history of the University is what I miss most. Walking the corridors of Benedictine Hall put you in contact with the memories and history of so many. If those walls could have spoken, the tales they would have told. I do appreciate coming back to the University now and seeing all of the phenomenal progress and growth, but I still think about that history.

My primary message to recent graduates is that they should not lose heart during these troubled economic times. They have a great education that will provide them with the necessary skills to adapt and make themselves marketable. I would also say that they need to stay connected to the University and to their fellow classmates. Networking is essential to success and to growth.  Moreover, having a place of familiarity, comfort and sanctuary such as the University is refreshing and priceless, especially in times of stress. The University will be there to help them continue their education, develop their lives and adapt to life’s many changes. Staying connected does not mean donating large sums of money. Your time, talent and participation are what really count.
 
Christopher Awalt, Political Science, C95

I will miss the opportunities you have as a student, such as internships, being involved in student clubs and organizations, taking unique classes and learning with peers. I think students should  look into classes that offer them unique opportunities, including Model U.N., Mock Trial, Model Illinois Government and classes that offer travel opportunities.

I worked hard during my time at Benedictine. I can firmly say that I was as involved as much as I could be. By being involved and still focused on academics, I am prepared for the responsibilities of a full-time position.

Jenny Erickson, Political Science, C09

Br. Rick Poro, O.S.B., University Ministry

Our graduation day is unique from the state colleges and universities in that we begin the event with the celebration of the Eucharist. The graduates began their education by celebrating the Eucharist and now they end their education here with the Eucharist. I am always happy for our graduates, but at the same time there is some sadness; they will be moving on to their careers, graduate schools, professional schools, etc. and I will miss their presence on campus. A great deal of planning goes into an event like graduation, and we hope it has meaning for the participants and gives them fond memories of the day and place. The advice I give to all our students I repeat for them on their graduation day, “Always remember you are special in the eye of God and personally loved by God.”

Abbot Hugh Anderson, O.S.B., University Ministry

There is more to our commencement activities than simply giving out diplomas and saying farewell. First, the separate Honors Convocation and Hooding Ceremony stresses our welcoming of the graduates into the “academy of scholars.” Allowing each participant to choose the faculty or staff member who will place the hood on the candidate stresses that there is within our institution a special relationship between professor and student. The special ceremony is unique with Benedictine University.

I have never experienced another commencement convocation where the president reminds the students of the “heritage” that is now theirs to carry and share with the world – more than just book learning. He reminds them of the 1500-year Benedictine educational tradition and how they will carry it on in their lives.

Our graduates have been exposed to the Benedictine Spirit in their courses. They do this through study of the Rule of St. Benedict and through other experiences such as their community service work.

We try to have them incorporate into their lives the values we refer to in our mission brochure, especially the spirit of hospitality and stewardship of the goods of the earth. I would hope they find concrete opportunities to express our Benedictine values in their lives and work so that they may truly be the leaders in the world.

Fr. David Turner, O.S.B., Ph.D., D.Min. (Prin.), Assistant to the Provost for Institutional Mission; Associate Professor, College of Education and Health Services

As this was my first year coordinating the Honors Convocation and Hooding Ceremony and commencement, everything impacted me. I was very impressed with the “team” spirit that all the departments and colleges exhibited to put these events together so seamlessly. I met wonderful, talented individuals who guided me through my first year. I am very grateful.

Those on the graduation committee hope that the students truly understand the commitment that the faculty and staff have to the students. We also hope that their college experience was successful and enjoyable.

Donna Madia, Assistant to the Associate Provost, Academic Affairs

As University Registrar, I have been in the unique position to participate in each commencement and baccalaureate program at Illinois Benedictine College/Benedictine University since May 1978.  I must admit that I still experience a sense of elation and euphoria for each graduate when the chancellor announces to the graduates that their degree is conferred. From my seat, I have observed each student’s dedication, and sometimes hardship, to earn that degree, and it is the truest sense of accomplishment. 

I had the privilege of carrying the ceremonial mace for this year’s commencement, leading the graduates into the Sport Complex from the Rice Center. Leading a group of 800-plus participating graduates who had worked tirelessly on their studies through a reception line of our faculty is an experience that the graduates and I will never forget. There is an open display of affection and recognition by our faculty, along with a return of respect and thanks toward our faculty during the procession.

Commencements are not only for the graduates, but these events are truly family events. There is considerable family sacrifice to earn a degree, so our ceremonies are intended for all, and that is why the University has made considerable effort over the years to minimize the use of tickets and to allow all to attend and enjoy in the celebration of honoring the academic achievements of our graduates.

David Striker, Registrar

After personally working with students during their struggles (financial, academic or social), it is great to see them succeed and earn their diploma.

I hope the commencement ceremony gives students an understanding of their personal accomplishment and the impact of how family, friends and the Benedictine community helped them succeed.

I encourage our graduates to come back and visit every year, and I hope they will volunteer to assist current Benedictine students.

Marco Masini, Associate Vice President for Student Life

There is a group of 25 or so people who make up the Commencement Committee representing many areas of the University. Their charge is to handle all of the logistical issues related to the ceremony so that it runs smoothly. Their dedication and ingenuity is critical to the success of the program.

The committee starts planning in November. The goal is to make the day as enjoyable as possible for the graduates, their families and friends. Each year, we revisit our plans and processes with a goal of improving what we did the year before. We listen to input from those participating to see how we should proceed in the future.

In addition, each year a number of Benedictine community members – faculty, staff, students and alumni – volunteer on the day of commencement. They too play an important role in “pulling it off,” and their participation demonstrates their commitment to the Benedictine value of hospitality.

David Sonnenberger, Associate Provost, Academic Affairs

As we bid students farewell from their current academic program, we invite them to stay with us either in a graduate program or alumni opportunities. It’s important to stay connected to the University. Our alumni prefer to hire and work with other alumni.

Sandra L. Gill, Ph.D.,
Dean, College of Business

College of Science graduates exhibit a strong foundation in their major discipline, complemented
by broad experience in the other sciences and the values-centered liberal arts that are a hallmark
of a Benedictine education.

We want our graduates to demonstrate the ability to work independently and as a member of a group in development of new knowledge in the laboratory and library, through projects and directed research experiments. Students also gain hands-on experience through internships and pre-professional practica.

During the weeks leading up to graduation, the College of Science celebrates the
accomplishments of its students, both continuing and graduating, through a variety of recognition
awards, endowed scholarships and inductions into various discipline-related honor societies.

We encourage our graduates to keep in touch and let us know how things are progressing as they move ahead with their careers.

Ralph D. Meeker, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Science

The College of Education and Health Services includes nursing, public health, nutrition and education. All are united in their approach to professionalism. All are anchored in mastery of basic disciplines, personal responsibility, ethics and accountability. Our conceptual framework is that our graduates are effective practitioners, committed to scholarship, lifelong inquiry, leadership and social responsibility.

Graduation is the moment when a person transitions from being a consumer of education to one who now becomes a self-learner, teacher and servant of society. Even though the world is now a more daunting place, there will always be the need for those in the service professions. They cannot be replaced or outsourced if they remain resourceful, committed to their own development and self-starters.

Alan Gorr, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Dean, College of Education and Health Services

Unlike the other colleges, the College of Liberal Arts graduates pursue a variety of majors in the arts, humanities and social sciences. All programs share a common liberal arts foundation while simultaneously preparing graduates for their future professional endeavors. Regardless of the major, we stress the importance of critical thinking, strong writing skills, effective communication and the importance of their role in the global society.
  
When our students graduate, we welcome them as alumni and we strive to maintain ongoing communication with them as members of our college. Our alumni have made us proud with their achievements, and many of them have generously supported our programs and students.

We hope that graduation will be the beginning of a lifetime of continued learning, supported by strong ethic principles and responsible civic engagement.
  
María de la Cámara, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Liberal Arts

I am grateful that I have the opportunity to help students attain their educational goals. It is rewarding to see our graduates advance their educational careers and realize many of them would not have graduated had it not been for our nontraditional format. Many of our adult students have made financial sacrifices, sacrificed family time and spent countless hours studying. However, those sacrifices dim in comparison to the sense of accomplishment they feel as they receive their diplomas and cross a major threshold in life. To play a significant role in helping them succeed is a wonderful accomplishment for our college.

I advise our graduates to pursue their passion, build and maintain a strong social network, market themselves, create a personal brand and don't settle for the status quo.”

Tanesha D.H. Pittman, M.B.A.
Executive Director, Adult Programs

*Please note: items have been edited for space and content.