During the spring 2026 semester, students reported language and behaviors that were racist and threatening at on- and off-campus events. These incidents have left some students, particularly those from historically underrepresented and marginalized communities, feeling unsafe and unwelcome in our Gonzaga community. This is unacceptable, and antithetical to Gonzaga’s Mission as a Catholic, Jesuit, humanistic institution of higher learning where all are welcomed and valued.
Gonzaga is committed to fostering a campus climate where every student experiences respect, dignity, and a true sense of belonging. Racism, harassment, and threats are taken seriously and addressed fairly and as swiftly as possible. Student agency and well-being guide our work as we strive for meaningful, lasting change that strengthens strengthen safety, belonging, and care across our University.
On March 5, 2026, President Katia Passerini formed the Presidential Task Force on Accompaniment, Safety and Belonging and charged it with working with students, faculty and staff to address the incidents reported, as well as overarching concerns about safety and campus climate raised by student groups such as the Black Student Union (BSU) and Unity Alliance of Cultural Clubs (UACC).
Key accomplishments of the Task Force are listed below. For more detail, read the Summer 2026 Progress Report.
1. Increased Transparency Around Accountability and Outcomes
2. Created a One-Stop Reporting System
3. Created a Paid Student Liaison Position
4. Implemented a Unified Case Management Approach
5. Affirmed the University's Stance Against Racism
6. Updated Technology and Digital Conduct Policies
7. Redesigned Orientation and Welcome Programs Around Belonging
8. Enhanced Student Leadership and Inclusive Excellence Training
9. Reformed Student Governance Structures
10. Expanded Recruitment, Retention and Student Support Pathways
Making Gonzaga the best it can be, and ensuring every student is heard, respected, and a valued member of our community is work that all of us must do together, proactively and thoughtfully.
Following University organizational changes, the Office of Inclusive Excellence has been added to the Office of Mission integration. This realignment grounds this work more deeply in our Catholic, Jesuit identity, reinforcing that the responsibility for fostering a culture of belonging is shared across all divisions and roles.
The following entities are coordinating this work.
The Office of Inclusive Excellence, led by Dr. Nick Wright, assistant vice president of diversity, continues to steward the implementation of the University’s Inclusive Excellence Strategic Plan, guide campus climate reporting and responsive action, and coordinate efforts that strengthen an institutional culture grounded in community, inclusion, and connection.
Title IX and harassment and discrimination work that previously resided within the Office of Inclusive Excellence has moved into an Equity & Compliance office within Human Resources that contains other internal audit and compliance functions. This shift makes the experience of reporting and investigation clearer and more supportive for our community. By bringing these functions together under one division, students, faculty, and staff have a straightforward path to raise concerns and access resources.
The Academic and Administrative Affairs Council (AAAC) strengthens alignment between academic and administrative efforts to advance a culture of belonging for all members of Gonzaga University. In partnership with the Cabinet and President Passerini, the AAAC monitors institutional progress on inclusion and belonging across divisions, ensures that programs and services reflect our Jesuit commitment to cura personalis, and upholds shared accountability for this work.
To lead this work across the institution, the following individuals have been named as Special Advisors to the President and co-chairs of the AAAC:
Inclusive Excellence work is supported across multiple offices and programs, including:
Each University division is responsible for advancing Inclusive Excellence goals within its area and is accountable through established university leadership structures and AAAC oversight.
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First and foremost, if you feel unsafe or witness an incident in which any member of the Gonzaga community is at physical risk or needing immediate attention, call Campus Security and Public Safety (CSPS) at 509-313-2222 or dial 911.
Gonzaga University is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive campus community for every student, faculty, and staff member. If you have experienced or witnessed an incident involving safety, bias, discrimination, sexual misconduct, or a student in need of support, we encourage you to report a concern.
If you are concerned about your safety on campus or in the immediate vicinity of campus, there are several resources available:
If you or someone you know is struggling due to racism and/or harassment, please make use of and share links to Gonzaga’s Student Support Resources. This portal offers access and guidance on the various resources available, including the Center for Cura Personalis, Counseling Services, Resolution Center, and University Ministry. Staff from one of these offices will contact you as soon as possible to assist.
