Established in 2011, URSA was created to expand opportunities for undergraduates to lead or collaborate on research projects alongside faculty mentors. Now in its fifteenth year, the event has grown into a cornerstone of BenU’s academic calendar, and the 2026 symposium proved to be one of the most vibrant yet.

From noon-4:30 p.m., Goodwin Hall hosted a packed schedule of oral presentations across three rooms (211, 212, and 213), with three concurrent time blocks running from noon until the late afternoon. Topics ranged from police perceptions of community-oriented policing and the role of music in Native American identity to existentialist analyses of eating disorders, echo chambers on social media, CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors, and the racialized lens of medical illustration. The presentations reminded all in attendance that URSA interprets “scholarship” in the broadest possible sense.

Meanwhile, the first-floor lobby transformed into a bustling gallery of discovery during the poster session, held from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Poster topics ranged from Wolbachia bacteria in arthropods and the neurotoxic effects of microplastics on the brain to AI-driven goose deterrent systems for Lake St. Benedict, the relationship between personality traits and social deduction games, and a winter clothing drive supporting survivors of domestic violence.

Students from the natural sciences presented research findings on large-format posters, while peers from the humanities and arts displayed original creative work, including visual art installations and descriptions of original musical compositions.

Faculty, staff, and students filled the hallways and session rooms, offering thoughtful questions and enthusiastic support. For many presenters, URSA served as a vital “dry-run” for larger regional conferences later this spring. But for all involved, the event was a celebration of what happens when BenU students are given a stage to share their curiosity.

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President Scott has served as the 12th permanent president of Chicago State University since July 1, 2018, guiding the institution through a period of historic renewal and strategic growth. As the only four-year U.S. Department of Education-designated Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) in Illinois, CSU has flourished under her leadership, embracing a bold new direction as a regional public university powerhouse. A national voice for equity in higher education, President Scott co-founded the National Coalition of Predominantly Black Institutions of Higher Education and helped launch the first-ever Congressional PBI Caucus.

During her visit, President Scott shared insights from her own leadership journey, offering a candid look at the experiences that shaped her approach to guiding an institution through transformation and advocating for equity. Her distinguished legal career has earned her national recognition, and she has been named one of Crain’s Chicago Business’ Most Powerful Women in Chicago Business. The discussion provided attendees with a unique opportunity to learn from a leader whose career spans law, public service, and higher education.

A central theme of the talk was practical advice for students looking to excel in their studies and achieve their goals. President Scott emphasized the importance of resilience, intentionality, and building strong support networks. She encouraged students to remain focused on their purpose, to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and to actively seek mentorship throughout their academic and professional careers.

The event underscored ����TV’s commitment to fostering leadership development and providing students with access to diverse perspectives. President Scott’s visit left a lasting impression on the audience, offering valuable takeaways for all who attended.

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The gathering began on Thursday, Nov. 13, with a the Gold Mass in St. Benedict Chapel. Celebrated by Fr. Eddie Haule, the Mass honored the vocations of scientists, researchers, and science students, blessing their pursuit of knowledge as a sacred calling. The Chapel, filled with a congregation of students, faculty, staff, and community members, provided a serene start to an evening dedicated to the harmony of belief and inquiry.

The celebration continued with a dinner and keynote lecture in the Kindlon Hall. The event featured Ilia Delio, OSF, PhD, a renowned theologian and scientist who holds the Connelly Chair in Theology at Villanova University. In her lecture, “Christianity and Evolution,” Sr. Delio wove together insights from her dual doctorates in Pharmacology and Theology. She presented a compelling vision of an evolving universe charged with divine presence, challenging the audience to see evolution not as a challenge to faith, but as the mechanism through which God continues to create.

The conversation deepened on Friday, Nov. 14, with the Faith and Reason Symposium, centered on the theme “Faith and Evolution” – held in the Daniel L. Goodwin Hall of Business’s Sorensen Hall of Leaders.

The morning was packed with engaging panels featuring ����TV’s own experts. Panel I, moderated by Ellen Ziliak, PhD, featured insights from Preston Aldrich, PhD, Robert McCarthy, PhD, and Tim Marin, PhD, ’96.

“The ����TV Faith and Reason Symposium gives our academic community a rare chance to have honest, intellectually serious conversations about big questions, especially those at the often-avoided crossroads of science and religion,” said Dr. Marin. “It reminds us that genuine learning happens when we are willing to bring our diverse convictions, doubts, and disciplines into the same room and engage one another with openness, respect, and joyful curiosity.”

This was followed by Panel II, moderated by Joy Matteson, MLS, which included discussions by Blair Nelson, PhD, Peter Huff, PhD, and Phil Hardy, PhD.

A standout Interfaith Student Panel moderated by Jayashree Sarathy, PhD, gave voice to BenU students Katie Brill, Khushi Joshi, and Osman Khan, who shared their unique perspectives on navigating their faith in their academic and personal lives.

The symposium culminated in a capstone presentation by Alfred Martin, PhD, Professor Emeritus, Biological Sciences, titled “How Science and Religion Fit Together to Explain Reality.” Dr. Martin’s talk served as a powerful synthesis of the two days, offering a coherent framework for understanding scientific and religious truths as complementary, rather than conflicting, ways of understanding our world.

These events underscored ����TV’s unique role as a place where the life of the mind and the life of the spirit are not only welcomed but are seen as essential partners in the pursuit of truth.

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On Sept. 16, Rabbi Label Blotner of the Southeast Valley Jewish Congregation spoke to students about the hallmarks of Judaism and their deep connections to ethical business practices. His presentation helped students connect ancient principles of integrity, justice, and stewardship with modern business decision making.

On Nov. 3, Fr. Kermit Holl, OSC, Chaplain at BenU’s Mesa Campus, shared insights on Catholic social principles, community engagement, and the moral responsibilities of business leaders. A native of Minneapolis, MN, and the tenth of eleven children, Fr. Holl joined the Crozier religious order in 1984 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1990. He currently resides in his community in South Phoenix, where he provides a fraternal witness to the Gospel’s call to unity and love.

These informative and engaging presentations provided students with a stronger, multifaceted understanding of how faith traditions continue to inform ethical leadership and business decision-making in today’s complex global environment.

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Over the next five years, the BenSTEMS program will provide scholarships, mentoring, leadership opportunities, career-readiness programming, and research experiences to academically talented students with significant financial need. By addressing both financial difficulties and the academic “chokepoints” that often hinder student success in STEM, the initiative seeks to expand access, improve retention and graduation rates, and prepare graduates to thrive in high-demand fields.

“With BenSTEMS, we are not only investing in our students’ futures but also advancing the University’s mission by supporting those students with the greatest financial need,” said Darya Aleinikava, PhD, Professor of Physics and Principal Investigator on the grant. “We are creating pathways for talented young scientists and engineers who might otherwise be unable to pursue their aspirations.”

The BenSTEMS program builds on ����TV’s long-standing strengths in science education, combining its liberal arts foundation, Catholic intellectual tradition, and commitment to inclusive excellence. Students in the program will benefit from a cohort-based model that emphasizes community building, peer mentoring, faculty engagement, and opportunities to connect with alumni and industry partners.

Beginning in their first year, participants will be supported through tailored coursework, professional development workshops, and access to undergraduate research projects at BenU and partner institutions, including regional national laboratories and industry sites.

A distinctive element of the grant is its research and evaluation component, which will study the impact of combining financial support with academic and social interventions. The findings will not only inform future programming at ����TV but also contribute to the national conversation on how to better support students from low-income backgrounds in completing STEM degrees.

“This grant represents a transformative investment in our students,” said Kate Lang, PhD, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “Through BenSTEMS, BenU will be able to reduce financial obstacles, foster a sense of community, and prepare the next generation of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers who will make a difference in society.”

By equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and professional networks they need to succeed, BenSTEMS will help ensure that ����TV graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, technology, engineering, education, and other high-demand areas where STEM expertise is vital.

Stay tuned for more information about BenSTEMS and how to apply.

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At ����TV in Mesa, we believe that supporting our student-athletes means investing in their success both on and off the field. That commitment goes beyond the classroom and the game—it extends into their health, recovery, and overall well-being.

Why Cold Plunges?

Cold plunges, also known as cold-water immersion, have long been used by elite athletes as a trusted method of recovery. The science is clear: brief exposure to frigid water can help reduce inflammation, relieve sore muscles, boost circulation, and improve mental clarity. Beyond the physical benefits, many also report improved mood, better sleep quality, and increased energy—all essential for busy student-athletes balancing academics, training, and competition.

Some of the key benefits include:

• Faster recovery and reduced soreness after training or competition
• Improved circulation and immune function for overall health
• Enhanced mental clarity, focus, and stress relief
• Better sleep quality through regulation of melatonin and circadian rhythms
• Boosted energy and concentration without relying on caffeine
• Healthier skin and hair from tightened pores and cuticles
• Stronger cardiovascular health from repeated vascular conditioning

For our athletes, that means more time at their best and less downtime from fatigue or injury.

Why Plunge Chill?

Plunge Chill is redefining cold therapy with state-of-the-art, professional-grade equipment that makes cold plunges safe, consistent, and effective. Unlike makeshift ice baths, Plunge Chill units provide precise temperature control, keeping the water at optimal recovery levels without fluctuation. Built-in safety features ensure clean water, proper filtration, and reliable operation—making it easy to use after every practice, workout, or game.

Their systems are energy-efficient, durable, and designed for both high-performance athletes and everyday wellness seekers. Whether in professional facilities, gyms, or even personal spaces, Plunge Chill creates an accessible way to experience the powerful benefits of cold therapy.

Impact on Benedictine Student-Athletes

For Benedictine Mesa Athletics, this partnership is a game-changer. With the introduction of Plunge Chill’s cold plunge systems, our student-athletes now have access to the same recovery methods trusted by professional teams worldwide. After tough practices, long tournaments, or preseason conditioning, athletes can take advantage of ice baths to bounce back quicker, sharpen focus, and prepare for the next challenge.

It’s not just about recovery—it’s about resilience. By giving our Redhawks the tools to recover smarter, we’re also teaching them the value of discipline, self-care, and long-term health. These lessons extend far beyond athletics, preparing students for success in academics, leadership, and life.

Looking Ahead

As ����TV continues to grow its athletic programs—including the exciting launch of our new flag football team—we are committed to equipping our athletes with resources that set them apart. Partnerships like Plunge Chill are vital in ensuring our Redhawks can compete at their highest level while maintaining balance, well-being, and strong mental health.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes looks at our athletes “taking the plunge” as they incorporate cold therapy into their routines. Expect interviews, reflections, and stories that showcase how recovery fuels not only performance, but also leadership and community.

About Plunge Chill

Founded in 2020 by Sarah and James, Plunge Chill has quickly become a leader in the cold plunge industry. Their mission is simple yet powerful: make the life-changing benefits of cold therapy affordable and accessible to everyone. From professional athletes to students, office workers, and everyday wellness seekers, Plunge Chill is helping people worldwide harness the science of cold immersion to feel and perform their best.

Redhawk Resilience

����TV Mesa is proud to partner with Plunge Chill for the 2025–26 season. Together, we are building stronger, healthier, and more resilient Redhawks, ready to face challenges both in competition and in life.

Stay tuned as our athletes continue to redefine what it means to recover smarter. Because at ����TV, we believe success isn’t just built on what you do during the game, it’s also built on how you recover after it.

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The USA Deaf Volleyball program has a storied history, with the women’s team participating in every Deaflympics since volleyball was added in 1969. The men’s team, however, has faced challenges due to the sport’s historically lower popularity among male athletes. After missing the 2021 Deaflympics in Brazil, the team was reestablished in 2023, capitalizing on the recent surge in men’s volleyball interest.

Under the leadership of Head Coach John Macko and Assistant Coach Ben Campman, the team has risen in prominence, placing second at the 2025 US Open and fourth at the Deaf World Championships—their best finish in history. With an average age under 25, the team is one of the youngest in international competition, signaling a bright future for USA Deaf Volleyball.

Campman, who has worked closely with Radomski, praised the ����TV athlete’s dedication and skill.

“From the moment Chris joined, we could see we had a cornerstone of our program. He has an incredible job making himself a well-rounded player, excelling not just in hitting but also in defense,” said Coach Campman. “I’ve had discussions with him in the past about what motivates him and what he enjoys, and he just loves high level volleyball. I’m so glad he is having this opportunity to play against international opponents at one of the highest levels in the world. He wants this, and with him on the team, we have the potential to do some really special things.”

Mike Stevens, Head Coach of ����TV (Lisle campus) Men’s Volleyball, also commended Radomski’s work ethic and leadership.

“Chris is the best teammate,” Stevens said. “He has an uncanny ability to make you laugh and a work ethic that makes him dangerous on the court. He anchors our offense and competes every time he steps on the court, in the weight room, or in the classroom. We’re all extremely proud of him and are excited for him to compete on the international stage..”

Radomski’s journey to the Deaflympics highlights both his personal determination and the growing opportunities for deaf athletes in volleyball. The BenU community looks forward to cheering him on as he competes among the world’s best in Tokyo this fall.

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Based on the information provided in their Niche profile, qualified students across Illinois and the U.S. who meet ����TV’s enrollment criteria will immediately be notified that BenU would love for them to join its incoming class. 

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to help students see their potential and take that next step with confidence,” says Matt Jones, ����TV Executive Director of Enrollment. “By removing additional barriers to access, we’re inviting more students to belong to our community and truly become the best versions of themselves.“

Direct admissions programs are rapidly expanding nationwide and increasing in popularity as more forward-thinking colleges look to adopt a modernized, student-friendly process. These programs help break down barriers to enrollment, encouraging more students (especially Pell Grant-eligible, first-generation, and underrepresented students) to pursue higher education.

Every year, one in two college-bound seniors creates a profile on Niche, and more than 50 million people rely on the platform to research and choose their best-fit college. With Niche Direct Admissions, a , students who meet criteria set by the institutions will instantly know their acceptance status, receive scholarship offers upfront, explore detailed information about the college, and begin the enrollment process, all within their Niche account.

This program allows ����TV to expand its reach beyond traditional regions, helping more students discover and connect with institutions outside their home state.

“Niche is changing how colleges connect with students and build their future classes,” says Luke Skurman, Founder and CEO of Niche. “Niche Direct Admissions provides admissions teams the tools to deliver the speed, transparency, and personalization today’s students and families expect.”

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Such runoff has detrimental effects on the ecological health of Lake St. Benedict and the larger East Branch of the DuPage River Watershed. The projects include retrofit of detention ponds on campus to act as wet ponds, installing a nutrient deactivation system in Lake St. Benedict, and installing a goose deterrent system to minimize the amount of phosphorus-bearing animal waste that enters the lake.

The County WQIP grant will allow offset of up to $6,065 incurred by the University in making these improvements. Congratulations to Mr. Schubert and the BenU engineering students for securing a grant that will positively impact the environmental health of the University!

The attached photos show the students currently working on the project: Ernesto Carlton, Rachel Cepolski, and Alexander Corbett in the photo standing by the poster. Mohammed Hussain, Michael Nawas, and Rema Qazi are in the photo by Lake St. Benedict. Also standing with the students near Lake St. Benedict is Chris Cartwright of Kasco Marine, who has been kindly assisting in testing of Kasco Marine aeration and mixing equipment at no cost to the University

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“We are so proud to have ����TV take part in such a groundbreaking moment. This event will be a special moment for all of us at the University in helping foster the growth of women’s athletics.”

– Paul Nelson, Director of Athletics, BenU

The Illinois High School Association approved Girls Flag Football in 2024. BenU saw the increase in demand for collegiate teams and became one of the first universities in the state to introduce Women’s Flag Football as a varsity sport. The sport continues to grow at all levels with Women’s Flag Football officially being a part of the 2028 Olympics Games.

Leading the charge for the Eagles against Rockford University will be Head Coach Caroline Schwartz. Coach Schwartz brings a plethora of experience from her time at Lane Tech while playing a pivotal role in establishing and leading the school’s first Girls’ Flag Football Team. Under her leadership, Lane Tech clinched the City Championship of Chicago and the Second Annual State Championship hosted by the Chicago Bears in fall of 2023. Coach Schwartz looks to continue that history of success with BenU’s program.

“Being part of the first-ever college women’s flag football game in Illinois is a monumental moment. This is about breaking down barriers, showing that women belong on the field and demonstrating our knowledge and skill in a sport often dominated by men. The support from organizations like the Chicago Bears makes this even more meaningful, as it shows that the future of women’s flag football is not just a dream—it’s becoming a reality. I’m incredibly proud to guide these athletes as they pave the way for future generations of women in sports.”

– Caroline Schwartz, Women’s Flag Football Head Coach, BenU

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