Benedictine College Named a 2014 Kansas Merit Award Winner

Thursday, May 29, 2014

The Kansas Department of Commerce has named Benedictine College as a Merit Award winner for the State of Kansas as part of the department's annual Business Appreciation Month.  The event is a celebration of Kansas businesses and their contributions to their communities and the state economy. Businesses from across the state were nominated in one of four categories: manufacturing/distribution, service, retail and hospital/non-profit. Kansas Business Appreciation Month runs through June, with a special recognition banquet set for June 17.

“The businesses honored during Business Appreciation Month have made outstanding contributions to our economy and their communities,” said Kansas Commerce Secretary Pat George, a 1981 Benedictine graduate. “These businesses are investing and hiring in Kansas and as a result our state is enjoying strong job growth and a vibrant economy.”

Benedictine College was honored in the hospital/non-profit category and was nominated by the City of Atchison. The college has experienced spectacular growth over the past decade, which has contributed to growth within the city. Enrollment has nearly doubled in that time and with it has come increased construction and an expanding staff. Benedictine has built 11 new residence halls in the past 10 years and also added the 56,000 square foot Ferrell Academic Center, all of which helped local landscaping and construction companies.  On top of that, dozens of new employees have been hired, many bringing spouses and families into the city, buying homes, and shopping in local retail outlets.

"We are proud to be partners with the City of Atchison in building a bright future for our students, the college, and our hometown," said President of Benedictine College Stephen D. Minnis.

Founded in 1858, Benedictine College is a Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college located on the bluffs above the Missouri River in Atchison, Kansas. The school is proud to have been named one of America’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report as well as one of the top Catholic colleges in the nation by First Things magazine and the Newman Guide. It prides itself on outstanding academics, extraordinary faith life, strong athletic programs, and an exceptional sense of community and belonging. It has a mission to educate men and women within a community of faith and scholarship.

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