The purpose of the Marian Forum is to provide a yearly occasion for the University of Dayton community, the global Marianist community and the International Marian Research Institute to reflect more deeply about Mary and the wide range of topics related to Mariology. Some of the Forum's past topics have included:Mary in regards to healing physically and spiritually; immigration; Mary and the arts; and more. The Forum alternates between offering formal academic presentations and more interactive or spiritual activities, such as liturgies for the Feast of the Annunciation, campus pilgrimages and panel discussions.

The Marian Forum is presented by the Department of Religious Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences, the International Marian Research Institute, the Marian Library and University Libraries, Campus Ministry and the Institute for Pastoral Initiatives.