A Shared Commitment

March 17, 2026

Dear Gonzaga Community:

I am reaching out today to welcome you back from Spring Break and to update our entire community on actions the University has taken in response to student reports of racist and threatening language, as well as disturbing behaviors seen and heard during recent on-campus and off-campus events. I understand this conduct has left some students feeling unsafe or unwelcome at Gonzaga. This is utterly unacceptable.

On March 4, I met with members of the Black Student Union (BSU) and representatives from additional clubs within the Unity Alliance of Cultural Clubs (UACC). I heard clearly that the concerns raised extended beyond a single event last month and reflect the broader need for respect and a sense of belonging that every Gonzaga student deserves.

I value the thoughtful work students from the BSU and the UACC have invested in their ongoing communications with me and other University administrators. I also appreciate the Spokane community leaders who attended the March 4 meeting, as well as all of those who have reached out directly to share concerns. Your candor is an act of care for our community.

Like many other campuses, I recognize that Gonzaga has confronted incidents involving racism in our past. However, I firmly believe these moments do not reflect our values or who we want to be. It is imperative for all of us at this University to examine ourselves with honesty, and a shared commitment to accountability, consistent with our policies and processes.

I have charged Vice Provost for Student Affairs, Kent Porterfield, with leading a task force to address the concerns we have heard. Some actions currently underway include:

  • Ensuring support. Many members of the Student Affairs team are reaching out to and meeting with BSU and UACC students to collect information and provide immediate resources and assistance. These efforts will continue.
  • Pursuing accountability. Our student conduct and Title IX and Harassment and Non-Discrimination investigation processes are confidential as required by law to protect those involved and preserve the integrity of the investigation. I want to assure the Gonzaga community, however, that the University takes all allegations seriously and that an investigation is underway. As with all investigations, if there are findings of responsibility, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. I encourage anyone who witnesses or experiences threatening words or behaviors to report them promptly so the University can respond using the established processes and procedures in place.
  • Hearing student voices. I and members of my administration will continue to meet with BSU and other cultural clubs to hear directly about their lived experiences on our campus. A meeting with the UACC is scheduled for the end of this week, and an additional meeting with BSU is scheduled for March 22.
  • Digital safety and policy review. Gonzaga is adding clarity to the Information Technology Use Policy to ensure community understanding that University-issued email addresses are considered University resources and cannot be used to engage in behaviors that violate the law, the Student Code of Conduct or the Policies and Procedures Manual (myGU login required). This extends to Zagmail addresses being used to create accounts on third-party social media apps or sites that are then used to post content that is harassing, discriminatory, or that threatens harm or violence.
  • Review of bias and harassment/non-discrimination procedures. I have directed a comprehensive assessment of bias and harassment/non-discrimination workflows and student conduct review processes to optimize coordination and communication.
  • Campus culture assessment. I have also asked for a comprehensive, holistic review of the concerns that have been raised, inside and outside the classroom, across programs and engagement activities, and in the everyday interactions that shape our shared climate.

We will identify concrete areas for growth, establish clear accountability and communication, and implement continuous improvement practices that strengthen and inform our community. Where change is needed, we will make it. Where formation and education are needed, we will invest in them.

Gonzaga has always been at its best when we lean into difficult moments with hope and determination. We will do so again, proactively, thoughtfully, and together — with a devotion that is meant to transcend mere duty or obligation and conveys a sense of love, care, and support.

With gratitude and resolve,

Katia Passerini, Ph.D.
President
Gonzaga University