Academically, Fatani is pursuing double majors in Accounting and Management & Organizational Behavior, with concentrations in Human Resource Management and Operations Management.

Beyond academics, Fatani has held numerous leadership roles, including Vice President of Student Senate, President of the Global Justice Club, Vice President of the Accounting Club, Orientation Leader, Peer Mentor, and Accounting Peer Tutor. These positions have refined her communication, advocacy, and problem-solving abilities while allowing her to contribute meaningfully to campus life.

A Defining Experience

Fatani identifies her service in Student Senate as the most transformative opportunity of her undergraduate career. Through this role, she learned to lead with empathy, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and advocate effectively for student interests. One of her proudest achievements was creating new channels for student feedback, ensuring that voices from across campus were included in university decision-making.

This experience taught her that leadership is fundamentally about service. By listening carefully and prioritizing the common good, she developed skills that have proven valuable in both academic and professional settings.

Hands-On Preparation for the Future

Fatani has engaged in a range of practical experiences that have prepared her for life after Benedictine University. Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, she prepared tax returns for community members, strengthening her technical accounting skills and reinforcing her commitment to ethical service.

As a recipient of the Arthur J. Schmitt Future Leaders Scholarship, she participated in leadership development workshops, service projects, and purposeful decision-making.

“Leadership is about service rather than titles and about creating opportunities for others to succeed.”

As Vice President of the Accounting Club, Fatani organized firm visits to International Motors LLC and Sassetti LLC, providing students with direct exposure to the accounting profession. She also coordinated events with business leaders to share career insights and industry trends.

Her most extensive project was serving as Committee Chair for the Goodwin College of Business and Liberal Arts Student Senate Committee, where she created and led Business Week each semester. This professional development series offered headshots, résumé workshops, LinkedIn optimization, and employer networking. She expanded the series to include a Future Entrepreneurs event, celebrating student-owned businesses and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset across campus.

These experiences have equipped Fatani with project management, event planning, and relationship-building skills. More importantly, they have demonstrated her capacity to bring people together and create lasting value for her community.

The post BenU Student Spotlight: Mahnoor Fatani appeared first on Benedictine University.

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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In an official notification to Benedictine University, ACEND wrote, “On behalf of the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics Board, thank you for the program’s engagement throughout the accreditation process. This letter is to notify the Didactic Program in Dietetics at Benedictine University of the accreditation decision made by the ACEND Board to continue full accreditation for a seven-year term ending June 30, 2033.”

The accreditation followed a rigorous evaluation process, including the program’s self-study report and a comprehensive site visit. The ACEND Board cited the program’s full compliance with ACEND Accreditation Standards.

“Achieving this milestone validates the wisdom of our shared vision evident in the Didactic Program in Dietetics, which is our Undergraduate Nutrition and Dietetics Major at Benedictine University,” said Paula M. Sochacki, EdD, MPH, RDN, LDN, Director of the DPD program in Benedictine University’s Department of Nutrition and Public Health. “The ACEND site visit team was extremely impressed with our DPD Program and shared that the enthusiasm, support, and pride was clearly evident amongst everyone. Earning ACEND re-accreditation is a defining milestone and a powerful affirmation for the quality of education we build upon every day.”

The Didactic Program in Dietetics at Benedictine University provides students with the foundational knowledge required to pursue supervised experiential learning and are eligible to apply for acceptance into accredited Dietetic Internship programs. After successful completion of the accredited Didactic Program in Nutrition and Dietetics, students are eligible to take the Dietetic Technician, Registered exam. Additionally, the undergraduate nutrition major provides a solid knowledge base for those who plan to enter Medical or Chiropractic Schools or pursue graduate school in Nutrition, Nursing, Exercise Physiology, or other allied health programs.

The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, community engagement, and holistic approaches to health and wellness.

Congratulations to Dr. Sochacki on this well-deserved accomplishment. Her leadership, vision, and dedication have been instrumental in achieving this prestigious accreditation and advancing nutrition education at Benedictine University. For more information about Benedictine University’s Didactic Program in Dietetics, please visit ben.edu/degree_programs/nutrition-and-dietetics/ or contact Dr. Sochacki at psochacki@ben.edu.

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Before graduates crossed the stage, both campuses held separate Nights of Honor and Gratitude. On Friday, May 8, the Lisle community gathered in Goodwin Auditorium at 5 p.m. to recognize supporters and honor outstanding graduates with academic awards. The evening included an Interfaith Convocation and Awards Ceremony celebrating the diverse faiths on campus.

On Tuesday, May 12, the Mesa campus held its Night of Honor and Gratitude in Gillett Hall at 5 p.m., beginning with a Mass in the Catholic and Benedictine tradition.

Then came Commencement. On Saturday, May 9, the Class of 2026 walked across the stage at the Rice Center Arena in Lisle, leaving behind the offsite Rosemont Theater that had hosted previous graduations. The shift brought the celebration back to the heart of the University. Approximately 400 undergraduate students crossed the stage during the morning ceremony at 10 a.m., followed by 150 graduate students at the 1:30 p.m. ceremony.

In Mesa, graduates held their Commencement Ceremony on Wednesday, May 13, at the Mesa Arts Center. An additional 75 graduates were honored in a celebration distinct to their campus community.

After the final cheers, the new alumni stepped off the stage as graduates of a community they called home.

Relive the week through our official photo albums. View the Lisle Campus album and the Mesa Campus album using the links below.

Watch the recorded live streams. View the Lisle Commencement Livestream and the Mesa Commencement Livestream using the links below.

Congratulations to the Benedictine University Class of 2026. Welcome back. And welcome to your beginning.

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Over the years, classmates became educators, doctors, leaders, musicians, and mentors, while staying connected through life’s many changes. During COVID, the group even began weekly Zoom calls, a tradition that continues twice a month today.

The trip brought together 17 friends,  including spouses affectionately called “adoptees”, to laugh, reminisce, and relive memories from their IBC days.

“I never imagined I would form lifetime friendships with so many of my classmates,” Bill Lisowski, ’78, shared. “Sitting in the Aruban sun, enjoying great food, laughing, talking, and reminiscing … it was like we were back on campus again. That’s the great thing about strong friendships. They are always there.”

The reunion also featured an “IBC Memory Test” and commemorative coffee mugs featuring photos from the group’s IBC years and past reunions.

The opening night speech concluded with these words.

“Gathering in Aruba was not so much a reunion as it was a celebration of 52 years of friendship, a bond between us, and a sharing of  love for each other’s presence in our lives.”

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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 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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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’ . 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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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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