Benedictine University Received Federal Grant

The $2.77 million award will fund a five-year student support initiative at two campus locations.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Financial Aid

Benedictine University Received Federal Grant

Live Poll

Should federal grants be used to fund student success programs at private universities?

Benedictine University was awarded a $2.77 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The funding supports a new five-year program designed to bolster academic resources and student success.

Why it matters

The initiative aims to improve outcomes for first-generation students, those with disabilities, and students facing financial need. By strengthening core teaching and support systems, the university hopes to bridge equity gaps in undergraduate education.

The federal grant totals $2.77 million and will be distributed over five years to serve 2,000 undergraduate students. Funds are designated for campus infrastructure upgrades, academic leadership, and new learning technologies.

The players

Benedictine University

A private Catholic university that maintains campuses in Lisle, Illinois, and Mesa, Arizona.

U.S. Department of Education

The federal agency responsible for managing the Title III Strengthening Institutions Program which funds this initiative.

The details

The Catalyzing Student Success program will provide expanded library spaces in Lisle and a new computer lab in Mesa. The university is also redesigning its First Year Experience course to focus on mentorship and essential study skills.

Benedictine University announced the grant on October 1, 2026.
The initiative will run over a period of five years.

Culture Shift

This grant reflects a broader move toward targeted federal investments in higher education infrastructure to support non-traditional student populations. By emphasizing resource navigation and mentorship, the program aligns with current pedagogical shifts toward holistic student retention.

Undergraduate students at the Lisle and Mesa campuses will see direct improvements to their physical study environments and academic support services. The initiative aims to lower barriers to completion through updated technology and specialized mentorship programs.

The takeaway

Students should proactively inquire with their academic advisors about the new First Year Experience course structure and mentorship opportunities. Engaging with these resources early can provide significant advantages in navigating university requirements and improving academic performance.