Benedictine Cancels Commencement, Classes Online Through May

LISLE, IL — Benedictine University in Lisle has moved classes online an canceled its commencement amid ongoing concerns over coronavirus. Benedictine University President Charles Gregory made the announcement Wednesday on the university website.

Gregory wrote that the university had been going "back and forth" about whether to convert to a virtual campus. He added that the decision to suspend in-person spring instruction through May 31 was made "with the community's safety in mind."

Benedictine University staff and faculty are currently working remotely, Gregory wrote.

Commencement Canceled

The decision to move classes online for the remainder of the semester included canceling Benedictine's scheduled commencement ceremony. Gregory said the university is looking into other ways to "graduating class later this summer."

On-Campus Housing

According to Gregory, campus halls will close effective March 22 at 7 p.m., but students have been asked to return home for the remainder of the semester "as soon as possible." Students who need an exception are encouraged to email Chief Engagement Officer Mark McHorney at mmhorney@ben.edu.

Access To Campus

Students who don't have the ability to get online at home can access the internet on the first floor of Krasa Student Center from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday starting March 23. The availability of the student center will be re-evaluated, Gregory said, on a week-to-week basis.

North Central College Sends On-Campus Students Home

Gregory also took a moment to reflect on the impact of campus life without students. He wrote, "I will miss the liveliness of what would normally be beautiful spring days at Benedictine. From students greeting each other good morning at Starbucks to colleagues waving to each other in the hall, campus will not be the same without all of you."