Gonzaga University names its next president

Gonzaga University has named its 27th president, Katia Passerini, who will succeed Thayne M. McCulloh, effective July 15.

The Gonzaga University Board of Trustees announced Passerini’s appointment today after a seven-month search that resulted in a unanimous vote to select the new leader, says chairman of the board
D. Michael Reilly, in a press release.

Christy Larsen, chair of the university’s presidential search committee, said in the release, “Passerini demonstrated his ability and desire to be a leader who will navigate the challenges, concerns and joys of the changing landscape of higher education.”

Passerini comes to Gonzaga from Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey, where she served as provost and senior executive vice president and previously served as interim president for the 2023-24 academic year.

A lifelong Catholic and native of Italy, Passerini holds degrees in political science and economics from Luiss University and the University of Rome Tor Vergata, respectively. She also holds a master’s degree and doctorate from George Washington University.

“Her previous academic and administrative appointments have prepared her well for this next phase of an amazing higher education career,” says Reilly.

Passerini and her family are moving to Spokane this summer.

McCulloh, who was the first non-Jesuit to lead the university, previously announced his plans to retire after the 2024-25 academic year after 16 years as president.

“I am very excited to join the Gonzaga University family this coming summer,” Passerini said in the release. “Getting to know this community and discovering together how it will continue its success will be a wonderful journey.”