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.

Dr. Katia Passerini

Mass & Ceremony

Friday, September 26, 2025

10:30 a.m. | Inauguration Mass at St. Aloysius Church
2:00 p.m. | Installation Ceremony at McCarthey Athletic Center

Featuring a keynote address by Sister Raffaella Petrini, F.S.E., President of the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State and President of the Governorate of the Vatican City State.

Reception to follow | McCarthey Athletic Center South Lawn

The week of inauguration will also feature additional events commemorating this special occasion. View the full schedule for details.

RSVP

We welcome the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community as well as interested members of the public to join us in celebrating the inauguration of Dr. Katia Passerini. Please select your guest type to register your attendance or call (800) 463-6925 for assistance.

Inauguration Themes

Open Doors, Empower Potential, Lead with Hope

The inauguration of Katia Passerini, Ph.D. as ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ 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 ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´’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 ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ 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.

Visitor Information

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ 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.

Schedule of Events

The week of inauguration features several events commemorating this exciting new chapter for ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´. See the schedule.

Lodging

To help make your visit as comfortable as possible, all Davenport Hotels in downtown Spokane are offering a special discounted rate for our ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ guests. for ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ 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 inaugration coincides with Zagaplooza, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´'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 page.



About the 27th President

Katia Passerini, Ph.D with her husband, Arturo Pagán, and their youngest son, Diego.

The President-elect at a Glance

From educational philosophy to professional background, family life to pets and hobbies, get to know ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´'s 27th president.

Michael Reilly

A Message from Board Chair D. Michael Reilly

Chair Reilly introduces and welcomes Katia Passerini, Ph.D., to the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Community.

Maddie Ediger

What They're Saying

Hear why the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community is thrilled to welcome Katia Passerini, Ph.D., as our next president.

Dr. Katia Passerini

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Names Dr. Katia Passerini as the Next President

Read ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´'s press release announcing Katia Passerini, Ph.D., as the next president, effective July 15, 2025.

The stage at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´'s commencement ceremony.

Wish Dr. Passerini Well

Dr. Passerini's inauguration ceremony recognizes the beginning of a promising new era for ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´. Send her well-wishes ahead of the event.