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Bennies and Johnnies Step into the Spotlight on The College Tour!
When two top-tier liberal arts schools join forces to create a uniquely integrated learning community, opportunities are limitless! Watch 10 students and alums from the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University showcase the academic, social and experiential learning that prepare them for success.
Five Bennies and five Johnnies will guide you through our 30-minute TV episode of The College Tour, hosted by executive producer Alex Boylan. Through their amazing stories, you’ll tour two historic Catholic, Benedictine schools blending 3,300 acres of Minnesota lakes, forests and college-town experiences. This integrated, one-of-a-kind residential college for women and residential college for men have proven to be the perfect choice for Bennies and Johnnies. With two campuses and decades of traditions, CSB and SJU combine exceptional academics, a commitment to experiential learning, a fun residential experience and a network of alums blazing trails and opening doors.
Meet the Cast
Ashley Tarrolly ’24
Major: Economics
Minor: Finance
An economics major graduating with honors, Ashley’s already hired in investment banking at Piper Sandler. Varsity tennis player, founder of the Entrepreneur Club, she credits her success at CSB+SJU to her professors, strong community, diverse opportunities and alum network.
Kaidan Popp ’24
Major: Strategic Communication Studies
A communication major and varsity soccer player from Washington, Kaidan feels support at CSB+SJU to explore his interests in the fine arts, social justice and environmental issues. He never expected the place he’d feel most at home was halfway across the country.
Jocie Larson ’24
Major: Biochemistry, Pre‑Med
Minor: Theology
A biochemistry major on a pre‑med track, Jocie captains the varsity swim team, volunteers with Special Olympics, has studied abroad and is passionate about undergraduate research. She credits CSB+SJU’s supportive community and professors for helping her do all that she has.
Kobe Forbes ’24
Major: Engineering Physics
Minor: Mathematics
A physics major, engagement specialist at the Center for Student Leadership, and student senator, Kobe is deeply involved. From The Bahamas, he aspires to be a green energy engineer. He says CSB+SJU has shaped him into a civic-minded critical thinker through experiential learning and research.
Clair Moonen ’24
Major: Political Science, Pre‑Law
A political science major on a pre‑law track, Clair is CSB Senate president. She completed three study abroad programs, attended the UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai and earned an internship in the House of Representatives after a DC summer study program. She credits generous scholarship support for her opportunities.
Jimmy Buck ’24
Major: Psychology, Pre‑Med
Minor: Neuroscience
A psychology major, neuroscience minor on a pre‑med track, and St. Jude fundraiser president, Jimmy is a leader in service and on the nationally ranked SJU football team as captain and wide receiver. He credits professors and coaches for inspiration in becoming his best self.
Stacey Delgado ’25
Major: Strategic Communications Studies
Minor: Global Business Leadership
A communication major, global business leadership minor from Chicago, Stacey’s president of the Exploring Latin American Cultures Club, a campus ministry volunteer and helps lead the Advocates for Inclusive Mentoring Program. She says she’s discovering her full potential while empowering others.
Luke Budzyn ’25
Major: Global Business Leadership
Minor: Communication
A global business leadership major and SJU basketball player, Luke enjoys residential life and campus activities. He tapped into the CSB+SJU alum network to secure an internship. Luke credits faculty, staff and alum connections in helping him find his career path.
Ashley Ortizcazarin ’22
Major: Individualized Design
Minor: Communication
A 2022 graduate now at Target’s creative headquarters, Ashely customized her major in design, worked in the costume shop, launched her business in the Entrepreneur Scholars program, and earned a grant for sustainable fashion. Ashley credits the CSB+SJU community for supporting her at every turn.
Matt Gish ’22
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Neuroscience
A 2022 graduate and Mayo Clinic medical student, Matt credits small class sizes and pre‑med faculty mentorship for his academic success. Active in the SJU Health Initiative, EMT squad, campus ministry and SJU track team, Matt says CSB+SJU provided powerful opportunities for personal growth.
What is The College Tour?
Launched here first (and the first schools in Minnesota to be featured!) the episode will be available soon on The College Tour (TCT) website and TCT apps on Roku, Apple TV, Android, Google Play and others. In addition to the full episode “tour” and 10 segments featuring the five Bennies and five Johnnies, Alex Boylan, host of The College Tour, enjoyed coffee with President Brian Bruess as part of TCT’s digital series “Coffee with the President.” The episode will launch on Amazon Prime TV on May 28, 2024, as part of The College Tour’s 11th season.
