Monthly Recap
NOVEMBER 2026
This October was a busy one for the Students for Ave Maria University. Student life has been busy from events such as bilbo baggins to various lectures. Athletics is in full swing and our students have been thrilled to cheer on their fellow Gyrenes.
October 2, 2026
3rd Annual Bilbo Baggins Birthday Party
Student Park became the Shire for the third annual Bilbo Baggins Birthday Party! Students, faculty, and families came dressed as their favorite hobbits, elves, and wizards to enjoy fare worthy of the Green Dragon, apple bobbing, folk dancing, pumpkin carving, the Finest Garments Contest, The Lord of the Rings trivia, and plenty of other unexpected adventures.
October 6, 2026
Lord of the Gyrenes Movie Premiere
Students, faculty, and staff filled O’Bryan Performance Hall on October 6 for the premiere of Lord of the Gyrenes, a student-led film inspired by the Mr. Gyrene competition.
October 11, 2026
"Technology and Addiction: Seeking Freedom in Christ in a Consumerist Society"
Fr. Josiah Trenham, pastor of St. Andrew Orthodox Church in Riverside, California, spoke to students in the William C. Demetree Auditorium about seeking freedom in Christ in a technology-driven, consumerist world.
October 16, 2026
Bootbash
Students pulled on their boots on October 16 for the new and improved Bootbash in Judi’s Gym, featuring line dancing and swing dancing tutorials, live music, a best-dressed competition, hay bales, and fall food and drinks.
October 18, 2026
Boys n' Baskets
the Daughters of God household hosted Boys n’ Baskets in the Bob Thomas Student Union Ballroom. Some of the most eligible bachelors on campus put together mystery date baskets, and students entered the raffle for a chance to win one and go on a fun blind date!
October 21-23, 2026
Dorm Wars
Residence halls went head-to-head October 21–23 for Dorm Wars! The competition kicked off with Trivia Night, continued with the Spelling Bee, and wrapped up with the final events in Student Park.
October 24, 2026
Homecoming Football Game
Alumni came home to Ave Maria for Homecoming weekend, joining students, families, and fans on Gyrene Field on October 24 as AMU Football took on Warner under the lights.