Ave Maria University

[Momsix]

.

        We have just returned from a weekend visit to Ave Maria University in Naples, FL. My dd loved the people, campus, classes, and spiritual life there. God willing she will attend next fall. We got to hear Fr. Fessio (founder of Ignatius Press and chancellor of the college) speak about future plans for Ave Maria University and town. 

        I was very impressed with the level of academics required of the students. The core curriculum is 4 unit courses so they learn in real depth. If you would like to see the courses visit [http://www.naples.avemaria.edu/academics/undergraduate_programs/course.asp](http://www.naples.avemaria.edu/academics/undergraduate_programs/course.asp).  This page has a downloadable PDF file that explains the core curriculum in detail. Ave Maria is offering many majors now so it is worth checking out.

They have Holy Mass twice every day, Confession available every day and many students participate in a processional rosary every evening. There are several sisters from Sisters of the Renewal who are offering a women’s discernment program. There is also a Pre-Theologate discernment program for young men. The students are very active in the community with a Pro-Life club and a community outreach club.

In addition to spiritual activities there is also a drama club, sports and a beautiful choir. (Two semesters of choir are required).

Ave Maria is very new and is currently in temporary quarters that are new and well laid out. It was to be an elder care community but they ran out of money and so the University is currently housed there. Eventually they will move about 20 miles inland to their permanent location in Ave Maria Town. For now the students don’t seem to mind being only a few miles from the beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches.

The only drawbacks to AMU are that it is not currently accredited and doesn’t offer as many majors as some would like. These will change quickly as AMU grows and expands. I think it is well worth considering. I met several young people who were home schooled through Mother of Divine Grace and Seton and some who have gone to Seton School in Manassas, VA.
Momsix

 

[kmktexas]

Thanks for the report. My oldest is only in 4th grade but I have been intrigued with AMU ever since I heard about it. I am sure that it will be flying by the time my kids are old enough. Most of the good Catholic colleges are liberal arts only and AMU seems to want a broader offering.

Keep us updated, please.

 

[Almeria]

I’m anxiously hoping that they will be offering a grad program in history. I know the current plans do not call for one when they do their “big opening” (what do you call it?) Fall 2006, but I’m really praying that they do one soon. The school and town just sound so wonderful. I so want to work there!

 

[CARose]

I received an informational package from them telling me of the plans for the new campus. I live on the West Coast and my daughter is only in 7th grade, so I haven’t taken the time to look into it closely, but I was seriously impressed with their stated Mission and the plans they have for the campus.

At this point, I believe I will encourage her to consider either Stubenville or Ave Maria when it comes time for her to go to college. At this point, she isn’t feeling a call to be a nun, she says she wants to be a mom. But, she has said that if she were to be a nun, she’d want to be one who wears the full habit! :clapping:

I’m happy that this is her perspective. Oh, and I’ve mentioned to her that the best nuns are those who want to be mothers. As a religious sister you are the spiritual mother to many!

Let’s all remember to pray for the success of excellent centers of faithful Catholic education at all levels and for vocations to the religious life.

God Bless,

CARose