St. Ambrose football team, Photo Courtesy of Katie Le
A Week of School Spirit
Homecoming is one of SAU’s biggest traditions and gives students a chance to step away from their normal school routines, spend time with friends, and celebrate being part of the Fighting Bee community.
This year, the Homecoming spirit will begin before Saturday’s game, with faculty and staff encouraged to wear spirit wear and jeans throughout the week. Students, faculty, and staff will also have opportunities to participate in events around campus leading up to Homecoming.
“I’m really excited for Homecoming because it’s such a fun way to get everyone together and show some school spirit,” says Grace Fessler, a junior at SAU.
One of the week’s activities is the Homecoming Office Decorating Contest. This year’s theme is “Get Fired Up for Homecoming!” Faculty and staff can decorate their offices individually or as a suite, with judging based on use of the theme, creativity and originality, and SAU spirit.
The decorating contest will run from Monday, Sept. 28, through Sunday, Oct. 4, with judging taking place Tuesday morning. Offices must have their decorations removed by Monday, Oct. 5.
Homecoming Traditions Bring Campus Together
Throughout the week, it’s a packed schedule. Students will have the opportunity to participate in Homecoming activities, reconnect with alumni, and cheer on SAU athletics. For many, it’s also about making memories with friends and enjoying the energy around campus.
“I feel like Homecoming is when campus gets the most fun. Everyone is actually out and doing things,” says Jackson Hofer, a sophomore at SAU.
Homecoming week also includes opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to connect with university leaders. President’s “Donuts with the President” events will take place Monday, Sept. 28, in the Beehive and Tuesday, Sept. 29, in the Center for Health Sciences. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to stop by and enjoy a donut.
Getting Ready for the Big Game
The Homecoming excitement will continue Friday evening with the annual Homecoming pep rally at Lee Lohman Arena. The event will bring students together for performances from the SAU band, cheer and dance teams while building excitement for the Homecoming game the following day.
The pep rally will give students a chance to show their Fighting Bee pride, get excited for the weekend, and celebrate with their classmates before Saturday’s Homecoming activities.
Alumni Return to Campus
Homecoming also gives alumni the opportunity to return to campus, reconnect with former classmates, and see what has changed at St. Ambrose. The celebration brings different generations of the SAU community together while continuing traditions that make the university feel like home.
“I think Homecoming is a really cool tradition because it brings students and alumni together,” says Tristen Smith, a junior at SAU.
The weekend will also recognize this year’s Alumni Award winners and Hall of Fame recipients, giving the university community an opportunity to celebrate members of the SAU family and their accomplishments.
Making Memories With Friends
For current students, Homecoming is a chance to get involved, spend time with friends, and celebrate what makes the SAU community special.
“I’m mostly excited to spend the day with my friends and make some memories,” says Nathan Newman, a junior at SAU.
Whether students attend Homecoming events, support SAU teams, take photos with friends, or simply enjoy the atmosphere around campus, the day is all about celebrating Fighting Bee pride and creating memories.
Tailgate and Cheer on the Bees
With events happening throughout the week, there are plenty of ways for students, faculty, staff, and alumni to get involved. From office decorations and spirit wear to the pep rally, athletics, and Homecoming events, campus will be filled with Fighting Bee pride leading up to Saturday.
So grab your friends, put on your blue and white, and get ready to celebrate SAU Homecoming 2026 on Oct. 3!
