Accreditation

Benedictine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommisson.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specific programs are accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education, the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the Council on Education for Public Health, and the Illinois State Board of Education. Benedictine University has been approved to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

Benedictine University has been granted regular degree and vocational licenses by the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education to offer programs in Arizona.

Mission

Benedictine University is an inclusive academic community dedicated to teaching and learning, scholarship and service, truth and justice, as inspired by the Catholic intellectual tradition, the social teaching of the Church, and the principles of wisdom in “The Rule of St. Benedict.”

Vision

Benedictine University aspires to be a thought leader in Catholic higher education. We seek to provide a transformative and integrative educational experience grounded in Benedictine values, helping students shape lives of meaning and purpose as engaged citizens who care for the earth, welcome people of diverse faiths and cultures, and promote the common good.

Heritage and Hallmarks

Benedictine University’s mission and vision reflect its Catholic and Benedictine identity, providing continuity with the past and direction for the future.

Benedictine University, originally named St. Procopius College and later Illinois Benedictine College, was founded by the Benedictine monks of St. Procopius Abbey in 1887. An active member of the Association of Benedictine Colleges and Universities (ABCU) and the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU), the University is recognized by the Diocese of Joliet and in good standing with the Diocese of Phoenix.

Key documents informing Benedictine University’s mission and identity include “The Rule of St. Benedict,” Pope St. John Paul II’s Apostolic Constitution on Catholic Universities, Ex Corde Ecclesiae, and the ABCU’s Education Within the Benedictine Wisdom Tradition, which outlines the Ten Hallmarks of Benedictine Education:

• Community—Growing as a family in service to the common good
• Stability—Cherishing our roots and celebrating our heritage
• Hospitality—Welcoming the gifts of diversity and dialogue
• Stewardship—Reverencing the wonder of our common home
• Humility—Accepting ourselves with charity and grace
• Discipline—Respecting the dignity and joy of labor
• Obedience—Honoring the practice of deep and sincere listening
• Conversatio—Seeking truth that leads to transformation
• Prayer—Living mindful of God in all things
• Love—Finding the fullness of wisdom in love of God and neighbor

Inspired by these Hallmarks, and convinced of the harmony of faith and reason, Benedictine University is committed to academic, professional, and personal excellence. The University fosters the lifelong pursuit of knowledge and wisdom and encourages individuals to lead lives of balance, generosity, and integrity.

Motto

Ut in omnibus glorificetur Deus – That in all things God may be glorified

Non-Discrimination Policy

Benedictine University does not discriminate in its admissions or educational policies, programs or activities; scholarship and loan programs; athletic and other University administered programs or employment practices on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, military or veteran status, marital status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The laws applicable to Benedictine University include constitutional and statutory protections of the University’s rights as a religiously sponsored institution.

Title IX-Policy Against Sexual Harassment

Federal and state laws prohibit discrimination in education. This policy addresses the University’s responsibilities under Title IX and the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013, Illinois Preventing Sexual Violence in Higher Education Act (110 ILCS 115/1), and all other applicable state and federal laws. Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex (gender) in educational programs and activities and programs that receive federal assistance. Similarly, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 section 304 requires that universities have procedures in place to respond to matters of sexual assault, relationship (dating) violence, and stalking. In administering its affairs, the Benedictine University does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, military or veteran status, marital status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. The laws applicable to Benedictine University include constitutional and statutory protections of the University’s rights as a religiously sponsored institution. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Elaine L. Davies, Title IX Coordinator, Kindlon Hall 310; (630) 829-6495; edavies@ben.edu. You may also contact:

U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights
Citigroup Center
500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1475
Chicago, IL 60661-4544
Tel: (312) 730-1560
TDD: (877) 521-2172