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Register to attend the inauguration of our 27th President, Katia Passerini, Ph.D.
About
Gonzaga’s Jesuit, Catholic, Humanistic education will challenge and inspire you.
Presidential Inauguration
Katia Passerini, Ph.D.
Mass & Installation Ceremony
Friday, September 26, 2025
10:30 a.m. | Inauguration Mass at St. Aloysius Church
2:00 p.m. | Inauguration Ceremony at McCarthey Athletic Center
Featuring a keynote address by Sister Raffaella Petrini, F.S.E.,
President of the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State and
President of the Governorate of the Vatican City State
Reception to follow | McCarthey Athletic Center South Lawn
The week of inauguration will also feature additional events commemorating this special occasion. View the full schedule for details.
Visitor Information
Gonzaga University is proud to welcome you to campus for the inauguration of our 27th president, Katia Passerini, Ph.D. Join us in Spokane from September 25–29, 2025, as we celebrate this historic moment together.
Lodging
To help make your visit as comfortable as possible, all Davenport Hotels in downtown Spokane are offering a special discounted rate for our Gonzaga guests. Book the rate for Gonzaga Friends and Family.
Getting Around Campus
We can't wait to see you on campus. Visit our Campus Maps & Directions page for all your navigation needs.
Zagapalooza
Dr. Passerini's inaugration coincides with Zagaplooza, Gonzaga's homecoming weekend for alumni. Check out Zagapalooza events and start planning your weekend.
Inauguration Themes
Open Doors, Empower Potential, Lead with Hope
The inauguration of Katia Passerini, Ph.D. as Gonzaga University’s 27th president is an invitation to reflect on what it means to receive the gifts of community, purpose and possibility — and to carry them forward. Each theme stands on its own, yet together they reflect a shared commitment to receive with gratitude and lead with intention.
Open Doors honors Gonzaga’s visible culture of belonging, where students receive access to a transformative Jesuit education, and relationships open doors to investment, partnership, mentorship, careers and lifelong learning.
Empower Potential upholds the University’s Mission to accompany students, faculty, staff, families and alumni as they discover and develop their capacity to think creatively and critically, act ethically and grow into their fullest selves.
Lead with Hope affirms how the Gonzaga community shows up for one another and the world — with the compassion, courage and faith to shape a better future together.
Thank you to those who are graciously serving on the Presidential Inauguration Planning Committee.
About the 27th President
The President-elect at a Glance
From educational philosophy to professional background, family life to pets and hobbies, get to know Gonzaga's 27th president.
A Message from Board Chair D. Michael Reilly
Chair Reilly introduces and welcomes Katia Passerini, Ph.D., to the Gonzaga Community.
What They're Saying
Hear why the Gonzaga community is thrilled to welcome Katia Passerini, Ph.D., as our next president.
Gonzaga Names Dr. Katia Passerini as the Next President
Read Gonzaga's press release announcing Katia Passerini, Ph.D., as the next president, effective July 15, 2025.
Wish Dr. Passerini Well
Dr. Passerini's inauguration ceremony recognizes the beginning of a promising new era for Gonzaga. Send her well-wishes ahead of the event.