Homecoming Weekend 2023 Highlights

Ave Maria University had a busy homecoming weekend, filled with fun events that brought the AMU community together.

Hall of Fame Induction Dinner

In our third annual Hall of Fame Dinner, we inducted alumni Marinna Shadley, John Preyer, and Conor Sullivan. Fr. Alexander Pince received the Distinguished Alumni Award. It was a great night of celebrating AMU alumni—we are so proud of our Gyrenes!

Alumni Career Success Panel and Networking Hour

A panel of notable alumni came back to AMU to discuss how they used their education to fuel success “outside the bubble.” After the panel, our students were able to network with alumni, parents, and fellow students over coffee. It was an excellent opportunity to make valuable professional and personal connections within the AMU community!

The participants of the Alumni Career Success Panel on stage.

Football Game

Our Gyrene football team made it a happy Saturday night at Gyrene Field, taking a 30-7 victory over the Warriors of Webber International University. This was AMU’s fifth straight win over Webber, and the first time since 2017 a game was decided by more than 20 points. It was a very exciting night for the AMU community!

AMU football teammates excitedly celebrating after a score.

Oktoberfest

To celebrate fall, student life held its annual Oktoberfest celebration! The festivities included axe-throwing, hay rides, pumpkin carving, food trucks, drinks, and live music! Clubs and households hosted various activities and competitions, including stein-holding, hair-braiding, keg-rolling, and apple-bobbing. It was an extremely successful night of fun for Ave Maria University!

Two friends taking a photo at the Oktoberfest.

Senior Class Gift Unveiling

As a part of homecoming weekend, two new mosaics for the dorm buildings were unveiled. The mosaics for St. John Paul II and St. Mother Teresa Halls were donated by the classes of 2022 and 2023. These mosaics were designed in Naples based on a sketch created by alumna Alexis Stypa (’16). They are a beautiful addition to our campus!

President Middendorf and Alumna Stephanie Harangozo unveiling the St. John Paul II mosaic.