Welcome to Campus

#OurAvila

Avila’s 50-acre campus in suburban Kanas City was a gift from our very first graduate, Margaret O’Rielly ’18. So, of course, O’Rielly Hall, the first building constructed on campus, is named in her honor. Our newest building is the recently expanded Goppert Performing Arts Center, home to our School of Performing Arts. Our four residence halls are a quick walk to any of your classes. The Marian Center dining hall (the “Caf”), the Beak & Bean coffee shop, and The Quad are all centrally located at the heart of campus. And during Kansas City’s famously finicky weather, you’ll stay warm and dry traveling to and from class through the series of underground tunnels that connect most of the campus together.

Campus Traditions

Throughout Avila’s long history, many traditions have developed that honor the spirit of the campus community. From academics and arts to athletics, Avila’s students, faculty and alumni keep these traditions alive..

Father Keith Branson beneath the cross inside the Foyle Hall chapel
The Mass of the Holy Spirit is an annual tradition that is held at the beginning of every academic year to bring the community together to call upon God’s Spirit for inspiration for the upcoming year.

Two students proudly holding up the personalized license plates they created at a campus carnival. Both license plates say "Eagles"
Avila kicks off the school year with a party! Students, faculty, and staff come together to enjoy a free lunch and then browse more than 60 student organizations’ booths where you can play games and win prizes.

A group of five students pose on the bleachers inside Mabee Fieldhouse
Eagle Madness is a pep rally held the Friday of homecoming weekend. Games, food, music, and performances entertain the crowd before the fall sports teams are welcome.

Homecoming Queen and King posing on the football field during halftime
Homecoming features numerous events, culminating in the crowning of homecoming king and queen during halftime of the homecoming football game.

Diversity is an important component of the Avila community. During Harmony Month, students, faculty, and staff participate in an ethnic food festival by providing dishes from their country of origin to share with the Avila community.

Cheer and Dance teams performing inside Mabee Fieldhouse

2020 Steer Dinner and Auction ballroom
Avila holds an annual Steer Dinner & Auction to raise scholarship funds. For the third year in a row, Steer raised over $1 million for scholarships that changed the lives of many students.

Two students riding a giant tricycle during the campus carnival
Students, faculty, and staff break into teams and compete in relay races for a chance to win prizes. There is a cookout, carnival, concert and much more.

A day for seniors to present their final portfolios and exhibits, display their posters and demonstrate their expertise with oral presentations to faculty judges and their peers.

Held twice a year the week before finals, Stress Relief Week helps students relax and take a well-deserved break. Massages, donuts, smoothies, late night finals breakfast, yoga classes, service opportunities and more are part of this special week!

Seniors receive an Alumni T-shirt, snacks and beverages to welcome them to the 13,000-member Alumni Association.

Student looking at the crowd of graduates in their caps and gowns. Her cap reads "First Generation"
Graduates participate in a commencement ceremony, where they receive their diplomas, listen to engaging speakers and get one last chance to say goodbye to their professors.

Kansas City Here We Come!

Campus a only short drive from everything Kansas City. A vibrant metropolis that features world-class dining, shopping and cultural attractions — it’s all just 15 minutes away. Whether you want to catch a concert at the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts, cheer on the Chiefs or the Royals or explore history at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Kansas City has something for everyone. 

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