Monthly Recap
AUGUST 2026
This August, we welcomed back our Ave Maria students and greeted many new faces on campus. It was an exciting month full of orientation events and a beautiful Opening Mass. We look forward to a wonderful school year ahead!
August 18, 2026
Domino-tion: Pizza Showdown
New students rolled up their sleeves for one of Orientation Week's most beloved traditions: Domino-tion, a pizza-making showdown named in honor of AMU founder Tom Monaghan and Domino's Pizza.
August 18, 2026
Aloha Ave Luau
As the sun went down, campus traded fall for the tropics at the Aloha Ave Luau. Students showed up in Hawaiian shirts and leis for an evening of music, dancing, and island fun—a laid-back way for new friendships to take root before the semester's first classes began.
August 19, 2026
Jax Fall Fair
Orientation Week closed with a carnival-style evening of inflatables, games, and snacks for the whole community.
August 21, 2026
Welcome Back Bonfire
Students kicked off the new semester at the Welcome Back Bonfire. Old friends reunited and new Gyrenes met their hallmates as the community came together to celebrate the start of the semester.
August 24, 2026
Opening Mass and Taking of the Mandatum
The University community gathered at Ave Maria Parish for the Opening Mass and taking of the Mandatum, officially opening the first full week of classes. A meaningful start to a semester rooted in faith and community.