Distinguished Alumni Award
Francis L. Agnoli, M.D., M.Div.
B.S. Health Science 1985

In recognition of outstanding achievement in a career field or personal endeavor, the 2009 Distinguished Alumni Award goes to Francis (Frank) Agnoli, M.D.

Frank was a member of the first group of scholars to graduate from Benedictine in 1985. After earning his degree from Benedictine, Frank attended University of Illinois College of Medicine graduating in 1989 with a specialty in family practice. In his practice, Frank served in several developing countries and also in the Appalachian regions of West Virginia and North Carolina. After running a successful private practice, Frank desired to get back to his Catholic roots and went to St. John's University School of Theology and Seminary earning a master's degree in Divinity in 2000. Currently, Frank serves as the director of liturgy for the Diocese of Davenport, Iowa.

"Frank is the very example of what a values-centered liberal arts education means," states Vince Gaddis, Ph.D., Chair for the Department of History, Philosophy and Religious Studies. "He not only applied his scientific knowledge to medicine, he guided that vocation through his faith and what he learned as a Religious Studies minor. Frank saw ethics in medicine as the highest priority and that meant not seeking a lucrative private practice, but rather using his knowledge to serve those who were most in need—the poor and forgotten not only in this society, but around the world."

With these values tugging at his heart, Frank easily transitioned into ministry and followed God’s call to serve. As the director of liturgy in a large Diocese, he is an accomplished writer, speaker and organizer. Frank feels his talents and skills where honed and acquired during his undergraduate years at Benedictine University.

Frank lives in Davenport with his wife, Marianne, C86, M.P.H.'92 and they have two children, Francis M. and Mary.

Previous Distinguished Alumni Award Winners