The Buzz

University news by students, for the SAU Community

“The Buzz” is the official, student-run e-newspaper of St. Ambrose University.

The publication has deep roots in SAU history. Throughout the 20th and into the early 21st Centuries, “The Buzz” was traditionally published as a printed newspaper and distributed throughout campus. In 2019, the Department of Communication and Digital Media created the online media hub called, The Hive, to better reach our readers and provide students with the skills and knowledge to publish online content.

Today, Buzz stories are published on the Hive hub and four issues a semester are also emailed to SAU students, faculty, staff, and friends.

In addition to the Buzz stories, all departmental student media content vetted for publication resides on The Hive, including SAUtv and KALA-FM.

Both the Buzz and HIVE are governed by the SAU Publications Board in the Department of Communication. Its advisor is Media and Public Relations Professor Liz Merdian Lareau.

We love to welcome new Buzz writers. Students in COMM 230 and COMM 333 write for the Buzz as part of class instruction. Many students are welcome to enroll to write for credit for the Buzz in COMM 320.

The Latest Buzz

SAU on ICE Part 3: Students React to New Deployments, Detainee Deaths, and the City of Davenport’s Stand 

Grant Ward’s final installment widens the focus from campus reactions to the larger ICE debate, covering how the Davenport Aldermen discussion began, recent detainee deaths, and the agency’s expanding deployments. It also notes that 330 ICE agents are being sent to more than 40 states and Puerto Rico, with Texas receiving the largest share and several other cities and towns also targeted.

Battle for the River 2026: SAU Win for a Fourth Year in a Row, Sending off Seniors in Style 

St. Ambrose University defeated Augustana College 4-1 in the annual Battle for the River on May 2, earning SAU Esports its fourth straight victory in the rivalry.

St. Ambrose University Launches Redesigned Core Curriculum for Fall 2026

Starting in Fall 2026, St. Ambrose University will launch a redesigned core curriculum across its campuses aimed at integrating disciplines and equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation to build a more just future.

The Rest of the Buzz

Closer to Home: Tornado Alley Shifts East 

Now that the winter season has ended and spring has arrived, SAU must be prepared for changing weather conditions and remain alert for the possibility of tornadoes.

Strong Partnerships, Stronger Communities: Why Iowa Should Protect Proven Pathways in Higher Education

Photo Courtesy of St. Ambrose University: Photo of Dr. Amy Novak, SAU President. The following is a statement in its entirety provided by SAU President Amy Novak on a new Iowa House Bill proposing some Iowa community colleges could offer four-year degrees under certain conditions. The bill as amended does not affect SAU as EICC […]

SAU on ICE: Campus Reactions to Minneapolis ICE Raids and the Death of Alex Pretti

SAU Media major and Buzz writer, Grant Ward, writes a special spring semester series on the operations of and student reactions to the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Freshmen and Sophomores Reflect on SAU’s New Core Curriculum

SAU is making a new change to it's core curriculum. Hear what students have to say about this, and what it means for the future of classes.

Aloha, Ambrose: Hawaiian Coffee Arrives on Brady Street

Have you heard about the new coffee shop in town? SAU students are buzzing with excitement over a new study spot and the perfect place to grab a coffee.

Opening Doors or Crossing Lines: Iowa Community Colleges Potentially Offering 4-Year Degrees

A new bill proposal in Iowa could allow community colleges to offer 4-year bachelor degrees.

Getting Through the Coldest Winters: Suicide Awareness and Resources for St. Ambrose Students

Statistics show that many college students struggle with depression, and are afraid to seek help. Learn how St. Ambrose University is breaking the stigma and offering support so no student has to struggle alone.

Oscar Buzz on Campus

The 98th annual Oscars, airing Sunday, March 15th, already has students making their yearly watch-party plans. 

Stranded: Students Fear Missing the Holidays Due to Flight Delays

As fall semester begins to wrap up, students are excited to go home for the holidays...or will they not be able to make it due to all the flight delays?

St. Ambrose Honors First Generation Students

St. Ambrose University celebrated National First-Generation Day with music, “Bee First!” swag, and stories from students like Melissa and Gabriella, who shared how they’ve overcome challenges and found success as first-generation college students.

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