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

Benedictine University has received Level I Arboretum Accreditation from The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and the Morton Arboretum. This recognition is given to institutions that meet specific standards of professional practices important for arboreta and botanic gardens.

The ArbNet program is a global initiative that recognizes arboreta at various stages of development, capacity, and professionalism. Benedictine University is now listed as an accredited arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta, which includes arboreta and gardens around the world dedicated to woody plants.

In the summer of 2024, two students from Benedictine University, Hajira Choudry and Karan Shetty, undertook a project to identify, inventory, map, and label selected trees on campus. This project was supported by the National Science Summer Research Program (NSSRP). The aim was to determine if the university met the criteria to be designated as an arboretum—a goal that has been achieved.

"We have a beautiful campus, but having it now become an accredited arboretum is proof of the dedication and hard work of so many individuals throughout the years who meticulously have taken care of it," stated a representative from Benedictine University. "We are all very grateful for the opportunity to engage in such a meaningful research project, and the work these students have accomplished within just two semesters is astounding. Their discipline, stewardship, and service to our community truly encompasses our Benedictine Hallmarks."

The Benedictine University Arboretum features 89 mature trees and shrubs representing 37 unique species. Each tree was sampled with leaves pressed and added to the university’s herbarium.