CSB Alumnae > Give Saint Ben’s > Mission Impact Repor…

Mission Impact Report

A MESSAGE FROM

President Brian J. Bruess

Hope is one of our community’s greatest strengths. It isn’t naïve optimism – it’s the steady belief that flourishing is always possible, especially when the world feels uncertain.

Hope shows up in action, in listening and in the Benedictine practices that shape these campuses: hospitality, humility and deep care for one another. This past year, your generosity helped bring that hope to life for our students.

Because of you, students found mentors who listened, communities that welcomed them and opportunities that allowed them to grow into their fullest potential. In a time when division and loneliness are common, your support offered connection, encouragement and possibility.

Thank you for choosing to invest in a future defined by compassion and courage. Your impact is real, and it continues to shape lives in beautiful and lasting ways.

A smiling man in a suit stands outdoors in front of a brick building. He wears glasses, a patterned tie, and a pin on his lapel.

95%

of Bennies receive scholarships

40%+

of students participate in a study abroad program

97%

of CSB+SJU graduates are employed, continuing education, or engaged in a full-time volunteer program within one year of graduation. 

25%+

of our students identify as first-generation college students.

A volleyball player in a red jersey lunges forward with arms outstretched to bump the ball, while spectators watch from the bleachers in the background.

Tournament Champions
Her Turn to Lead

A smiling woman sits on a wooden bench in an art studio, wearing a black “MUSIC” T-shirt and gray pants. Shelves with rolled paper and clothespins hanging above are visible in the background.

Hands on Learning
Paper Assignment

An older man and woman are sitting close together, smiling at the camera. The man wears glasses and a beige sweater, while the woman has short gray hair and wears a black sweater over a white shirt. A floral arrangement is in the background.

Empowering Experiences
Transformative Power

A diverse group of thirteen people pose together on outdoor steps in front of a modern white building with arches, under a blue sky with scattered clouds. Some wear sunglasses and traditional or casual clothing.

International Experience
Common Values

Read the full report

Introducing 12Twenty

12Twenty is a user-friendly, web-based (no app) platform that’s designed to support career and professional development for Bennie and Johnnie alums – at no cost. 

Learn more, explore the possibilities and get started here.

Supercharge your own career development

Students and young alums respect the power of the legendary Bennie/Johnnie alum network. Today though, the strength of that network’s been supercharged – with career services management tools from our partners at 12Twenty. 

The job board lets users search for personalized job recommendations. The Bennie and Johnnie community is right at hand to help explore and research next professional moves. Bennies and Johnnies on the path forward can get expert guidance and make meaningful mentor/mentee connections around the world. 

Share what you’ve learned along the way

Successful, experienced and even retired alums have been a valuable part of the legendary Bennie/Johnnie alum network throughout their careers. Today there’s a valuable new role to play, because the strength of that network has been supercharged with career services management tools from our partners at 12Twenty. 

As an alum, even if you’re not looking for your next career step, your experience and insight can still serve Bennie and Johnnie students and alums. Your guidance can help create meaningful mentor/mentee connections with Bennies and Johnnies around the world. 

A person sits cross-legged on the ground, meditating with hands resting on their knees and fingers touching. A thought bubble with a heart symbol appears above their head, suggesting peaceful, loving thoughts.

Find Employment

Black and white line drawing of two hands shaking, symbolizing agreement or partnership, with three lines above indicating emphasis or action.

Reconnect

Two simple, outlined figures sit facing each other, shaking hands. Each has a speech bubble above their head, indicating a conversation or agreement.

Share interests

A person sitting at a desk with a computer monitor, typing on a keyboard, surrounded by three cats; one on the desk, one on their shoulder, and one in their arms.

Make meaningful connections

Black iron cross symbol with thick lines, forming a cross shape with flared ends, set against a light gray background.

Share inspiration

learn more about 12twenty today
A group of graduates in black caps and gowns with orange accents stands in line, smiling and looking ahead. Some hold diplomas. Flags are visible in the background.

Higher degrees 

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the College of Saint Benedict held our 110th commencement ceremony. On that day, 355 Bennies earned bachelor’s degrees, three earned master’s degrees and 11 received their Doctor of Nursing Practice. Angela Untiedt Jerabek ’90, the pioneering developer of the BARR Model in education, sent them into the world with one great question:

“I’m here to tell you that you have great power – the power to navigate and thrive in a complicated and fast-changing world. So, what are you going to use that power for?