Note: This message was originally sent on October 9, 2025.
This photo from last Friday’s inauguration of Gonzaga University President Katia Passerini, Ph.D., captures so much.
In the foreground, the shoulders of two incredible leaders stand side by side: Sister Raffaella Petrini, F.S.E., and President Passerini. Upon those shoulders rest entire communities of faith, tradition, and vision—built through lifetimes of service, carried forward with courage, and offered as a foundation of hope for generations yet to come.
Within their gaze, President Passerini’s family alongside former Vice Provost of Enrollment Julie McCulloh, bow their heads in prayer. In that moment, the legacy of Gonzaga’s immediate past leadership stood beside the living spirit of Gonzaga today. And looking forward, hope shines brightest in the face of President Passerini’s youngest son, a current Gonzaga Prep student, reminding us of the promise of generations to come.
What the photo could not capture, were the words of blessing being offered in that moment by Fr. Tim Breen, S.J. Though many of you heard it delivered in person or streaming online, I encourage you to read it once more (or for the first time), here.
The blessing and image are powerful reminders of who Gonzaga is and what Gonzaga will be: a distinctive community of faith and leadership, grounded in tradition and lifted by a vision that is at once strategic and deeply human, dynamic and profoundly Jesuit. It is a vision that calls each of us to greater purpose, deeper connection and hope that transcends generations.
As this new chapter unfolds, may this moment renew gratitude for the shoulders on which Gonzaga stands — the past presidents and leaders who guided with wisdom, the faculty and staff who dedicated their lives to teaching and service, the students who brought energy and vision, the families and friends who offered steadfast support, and the alumni who carried Gonzaga’s mission out into the world. May it inspire us all to walk boldly into the future together, animated by the Spirit and the promise of what lies ahead.
Thank you for being part of this remarkable community and for all you do to strengthen Gonzaga’s mission.
And from the Vatican: Negli Stati Uniti d’America Sr. Raffaella Petrini ha partecipato all’insediamento di Katia Passerini, 27ª Presidente della Gonzaga University