Benedictine University (BenU) recently welcomed the Steubenville Joliet Youth Conference, an inspiring three-day event that brought together nearly 2,000 teens, priests, volunteers, and vendors for a powerful encounter with faith. The conference, part of the Steubenville Youth Conferences hosted by Partnership for Youth (PFY), aims to evangelize, equip, and empower young Catholics to live as joyful disciples of Christ.
President of Benedictine University Joseph J. Foy, PhD, expressed his gratitude for this partnership and event, “It was an honor to host the Steubenville Joliet Conference and witness the profound impact it had on so many young individuals. Benedictine University is deeply committed to fostering faith formation, and this event perfectly aligns with our mission. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Partnership for Youth in this transformative experience.”
With 1,941 participants, 41 priests, 100 volunteers, and six vendors on campus, the event was a vibrant celebration of faith and community. BenU’s facilities provided the perfect setting for dynamic worship, engaging talks, and small-group discussions designed to deepen teens’ relationships with God.
Amy Cummings, Executive Director of PFY, praised the University’s partnership, “Our inaugural Steubenville Joliet Conference at Benedictine University was a tremendous success—and it simply would not have been possible without their exceptional partnership and support.”
She continued, “From my very first site visit, I was met with genuine warmth, enthusiasm, and hospitality from every member of the BenU staff. The team’s professionalism, attention to detail, and shared commitment to excellence made a lasting impression and set the tone for a truly impactful weekend.”
Cummings also highlighted the spiritual impact of the event, noting, “Nearly 2,000 participants encountered the love of Christ during the conference—hearts were moved, and lives were transformed. Their role in creating the environment for that to happen is deeply appreciated.”
The Steubenville Youth Conferences are held in 13 locations across North America each summer, offering teens an opportunity to grow in faith through prayer, fellowship, and sacraments. BenU’s collaboration in hosting the Joliet conference marks the beginning of what promises to be a long-standing partnership.
“Thank you for being such valued collaborators in this important work,” Cummings added. “We look forward to many years of hosting Steubenville Joliet on Benedictine University’s campus.”
For more information, visit partnershipforyouth.org.
