For twenty-two years, Mr. Kevin Renicker, a member of the Social Studies Department at Benet Academy, has served as a teacher and mentor for generations of students. Since sixth grade, Renicker aimed to be a teacher, hoping to help students on their paths to success. He received a bachelor’s degree in History from Loras College in 2002, and he furthered his education with a master’s degree from DePaul University in 2009. When at the crossroads of deciding his future career, Renicker drew back from his childhood memories and chose to pursue a degree in one of his favorite subjects—history. As he defines, history extends beyond the definition of “something that happened in the past.” History is “something that you can attach yourself to… [It is] a personal story”. Ultimately, his aspiration to help others through the study of his favorite topic swayed him to join the faculty at the esteemed Benet Academy over all other careers and schools. Though he may have encountered hardship in transitioning from college to Benet, he found support among the faculty as a teacher in World History and American History classes. Mr. Renicker’s gratitude goes beyond words for the opportunity to express his love of history every day at Benet Academy. 

During his childhood, Mr. Renicker discovered the value of running in track-and-field. Throughout his formative years and adulthood, he aimed to push his boundaries—both physical and mental—to achieve the best version of himself through running. In 2011, he finished in the top one percent in the Boston Marathon, and in the same year, he placed fifth in the Milwaukee Marathon. When he joined the Benet faculty in 2002, Mr. Renicker hoped to instill perseverance in his students as he had, and he rose to become the current head of the boys’ cross-country team. Under his leadership, Benet’s boys’ cross-country team continued to plow through the East Suburban Catholic Conference championships to accumulate a total of 25 conference wins in Benet’s history, the most of any Benet athletic team. Witnessing his cross-country runners break new school records is always a favorite memory of his, especially when current senior Finn Richards surpassed the most recent record for fastest time on an IHSA course in 2024. 

As a model for students and athletes alike, Mr. Renicker guides students as they chart their paths at Benet Academy. From the history textbooks to the starting pistol, Renicker inspires young adults to fulfill their dreams and break their limits.