A flowing pattern symbolizing the University’s sense of place along the Spokane River as well as convergence of diverse perspectives within our dynamic community.

Presidential Inauguration

Katia Passerini, Ph.D.

Home
Presidential Inauguration of Katia Passerini, Ph.D.

Thank you to everyone who attended the formal installation of Katia Passerini, Ph.D., as the 27th president of Gonzaga University.

With deep gratitude, we recognize the many individuals, institutions, and communities represented – students, faculty, staff, alumni, families, friends, trustees, regents, tribal representatives, delegates from peer institutions and honored guests from near and far.

Highlights from Inauguration Week

Speaker is Vatican’s Most Important Woman Leader

Sister Raffaella Petrini is set to deliver the keynote address at Gonzaga's presidential inauguration ceremony.

Announcing the Woodley Institute

Thanks to a gift from Tom (’69) and Nancy Woodley, Gonzaga University is establishing an institute to prepare students to lead with wisdom, humility and integrity in an increasingly divided time.

A Gonzaga volunteer smiles while handing a stuffed toy to a senior community member during a service event, creating a joyful moment of connection.

Kicking Off the Week by Giving Back

Gonzaga’s inauguration week began in a truly “Zag” way with students, faculty and staff members taking part in a multitude of community service projects.

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.

See Members

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.

Featured Events

The week of inauguration includes several events commemorating this exciting new chapter for Gonzaga. See featured events.

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about participating in the inauguration of President Katia Passerini.

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 inauguration coincides with Zagapalooza, Gonzaga's homecoming weekend for alumni. Check out Zagapalooza events and start planning your weekend.

Clear Bag Policy

During the Installation Ceremony at McCarthey Athletic Center, standard game day policies, including the clear bag policy and prohibited items list, will be in effect. To learn more, please visit our Game Day Information page.