Letter from the President

What can('t) you do with a Saint Ben's education?

In the mood for some interesting reading? Learn more about the social habits of Emperor Penguins or weather patterns in Antarctica at www.imgonnafreeze.blogspot.com. This is an entertaining blog by Saint Ben's alumna Ali Ulwelling '94.

Ali was a biology major. Now, she's on the helicopter crew of McMurdo Station in Antarctica hauling supplies, equipment, animals and other things throughout the ice-capped region. When I come across stories like Ali's, I'm intrigued. It seems there's nothing our Bennies can't do with their Catholic, Benedictine liberal arts education.

In this issue we feature some relatively recent alumnae who've taken their liberal arts degrees to some interesting places. Emily Holt '02 majored in classic languages at CSB. She went on to earn two Master's Degrees and a Fulbright Scholarship for a dig in Sardinia. She will be finishing her PhD in archaeology soon. Angela Anderson '98 majored in French and now controls underwater robotic equipment in the Gulf of Mexico. Kesang Kudron '08, an accounting major, is living in Nepal and operating a textile business that helps women break the cycle of violence and poverty in their lives. Monica Haller '02, an award-winning artist, is using her background in peace and conflict studies from Saint Ben's and visual studies through her MFA to help veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan archive their experiences.

These are only a few of the stories of Bennies who've recognized the power and potential of their education. Whether exploring new careers, being resilient in challenging economic times, or reinventing themselves, our Bennies are equipped with critical and analytical thinking skills, vision and deeply rooted values, and confidence needed to navigate change. 

Maybe that's why Kiplinger's ranked Saint Ben's as one of 50 best bets for liberal arts colleges in the country. Our women are prepared to take on the world.