A Night of Honor and Gratitude
Join us for a night to remember!
The BenU Night of Honor and Gratitude will include the Interfaith Baccalaureate and Awards Ceremony that celebrates the diverse faiths represented on the Benedictine University campuses, and our Academic Awards and the Stole of Gratitude Ceremony.
Because our campuses are unique, each campus is holding these events a bit differently. Please see below to find out how your campus will be celebrating.
LISLE CAMPUS
A Night of Honor and Gratitude
Friday, May 8
Goodwin Auditorium | 5 P.M.
- Interfaith Baccalaureate
- Awards Ceremony
- Stole of Gratitude
- Honor Cord Distribution
- Graduate Reception
MESA CAMPUS
The Stole of Gratitude Ceremony
Tuesday, May 12
Gillett Hall | 5 P.M.
- Catholic Mass
- Awards Ceremony
- Stole of Gratitude
- Graduate Reception
Awards Ceremony
There will be an Awards Ceremony as part of the broader Night of Honor and Gratitude held on both the Lisle and Mesa campuses.
Lisle campus
The Night of Honor and Gratitude will take place on Friday, May 8, at 5:00 pm. The evening events include the Interfaith Baccalaureate Convocation, the Awards Ceremony, and the Stole of Gratitude Ceremony.
Mesa campus
The Night of Honor and Gratitude will take place on Tuesday, May 12, at 5:00 pm in the Gillett Community Room. The evening events include a Catholic Mass, the Awards Ceremony, and the Stole of Gratitude Ceremony. Please note graduates and loved ones of ALL faith traditions are welcome to attend the Catholic Mass.
Interfaith Baccalaureate Ceremony
The Interfaith Baccalaureate Ceremony is a celebratory event within the broader Night of Honor and Gratitude that honors the diverse religious traditions of its graduating students and offers a non-denominational, interfaith blessing as they conclude their studies. It features sacred readings, stories, and reflections from various faiths, showcasing the university’s commitment to embracing interfaith dialogue and creating a welcoming community for all students, regardless of their beliefs.
Stole of Gratitude Ceremony
The Stole of Gratitude is a physical stole that constitutes an important part of the graduate regalia. It represents the overall theme of gratitude that pervades Commencement and is the key component of the Stole of Gratitude Ceremony within the broader Night of Honor and Gratitude. The Stole of Gratitude will also be blessed at both the Commencement Mass and Interfaith Baccalaureate Convocation.
During the Stole of Gratitude Ceremony, you present your stole to a BenU faculty or staff member of your choice for them to drape it over your shoulders – to “stole” you. This gesture represents passing on of knowledge from that faculty or staff member. It is a means for you to show appreciation to those who helped you on your educational journey, providing a formal opportunity to say, “Thank you for helping me make it.” After being stoled, students will also have a few moments of time with either the President or the Provost. This is an opportunity for graduates to speak about their experiences at Benedictine University – truly an honor for the President and the Provost as well! Following the Stole of Gratitude Ceremony, students can also ask a parent, relative, friend, or mentor to similarly stole them. Photo stations will be available to capture that moment with loved ones. Students notify the Provost’s Office of the faculty or staff member who will stole them when first applying for graduation.
Graduate Reception
A reception will conclude the Night of Honor and Gratitude’s festivities, involving a champagne toast with the President, light appetizers, and more photo opportunities with family and loved ones.