Joseph J. Foy, Ph.D. President | Benedictine University

On January 27, Benedictine University's Office of Alumni Relations held the Alumni Achievement Awards Dinner and Program to honor the recipients of the 2023 Alumni Achievement Awards. The event took place at the Lisle campus, specifically in the Goodwin Hall of Business. This special occasion was dedicated to recognizing the outstanding contributions of ten remarkable alumni who were nominated by various individuals, including BenU faculty and staff, fellow alumni, colleagues, and members of the community.

Among the recipients of the awards were individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective fields. Christopher J. Betti, Ph.D., a 1996 graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree, was honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Betti's accomplishments and dedication have undoubtedly made a lasting impression on the university and beyond.

The Visionary Awards were presented to three exceptional alumni. Sadia Covert, a 2005 graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree, was recognized for her visionary mindset and innovative thinking. Susan Otten, who obtained an MBA from Benedictine University in 1990, also received this prestigious award for her exceptional vision and leadership qualities. Additionally, Laticia "Tish" Thompson, Ph.D., a 2003 graduate with a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior, was acknowledged for her visionary contributions to her field.

The Rising Star Awards were bestowed upon six deserving individuals who have shown exceptional promise in their early careers. Victor Johnson, Jr., a 2018 graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree, was among the recipients of this coveted award. Katie Kleinwachter, a 2008 graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree, was unable to attend the ceremony, but her father, Jim Kleinwachter, a 1978 BenU alumnus, accepted the award on her behalf. Adam Michalski, who obtained both a Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior in 2018 and an MBA in 2020, was recognized for his outstanding achievements. Samyuktha Neeraja, a 2013 graduate with a Master of Public Health, was acknowledged for her dedication to public health initiatives. Paulina Piasecki, a 2018 graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree, was recognized for her exceptional accomplishments. Lastly, Blaire Sullivan, who obtained an MBA in 2017, was honored for her remarkable achievements.

The Alumni Achievement Awards Dinner and Program was a memorable evening filled with celebration, gratitude, and recognition. It served as a testament to the remarkable accomplishments of Benedictine University's alumni and highlighted the impact they have made in various industries and communities.

To catch a glimpse of the event, photos from the Alumni Achievement Awards Dinner and Program can be viewed on the university's website.

Overall, the event was a true testament to the dedication and success of Benedictine University's alumni. The recipients of the 2023 Alumni Achievement Awards have demonstrated exceptional talent, vision, and commitment to their respective fields. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to current and future students, highlighting the opportunities and potential for success that can be found at Benedictine University.