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Meet Katia Passerini, Ph.D. President, Gonzaga º£½ÇÂÛ̳

San Jose


Thank you to all who joined us in San Jose for a warm welcome for Gonzaga º£½ÇÂÛ̳ President Katia Passerini, Ph.D. On this meaningful occasion, we reflected on the gifts of community, purpose and possibility — and how together we can open doors, empower potential and lead with hope.

Recap Story

More than 120 Zags packed a campus space at Santa Clara on Valentine’s Day, creating a warm, spirited atmosphere as Gonzaga President Katia Passerini, Ph.D., delivered remarks and connected one on one with alumni, parents and friends.

Attendees of the Forging Foward San Jose presidenial event pose for a group photo with Gonzaga President Katia Passerini, Ph.D.

The gathering—one of the most well attended Forging Forward events so far—brought together generations of Zags to hear President Passerini's bold vision for Gonzaga's future, celebrate in community and cheer on the team.

Guests enjoyed time to connect with fellow Zags before hearing remarks from Gonzaga’s 27th President who shared updates from campus, reflected on the strength of the Zag Network and addressed challenges higher education faces. President Passerini also spent time speaking individually with many attendees, adding a personal touch that resonated with both longtime supporters and recent graduates. The festive Valentine’s Day atmosphere added an extra layer of warmth and camaraderie to the evening as generations of Zags swapped stories, built new connections and celebrated their shared GU experience. The night concluded on a high note as the Gonzaga men’s basketball team delivered an exciting 94–86 victory over Santa Clara—giving the crowd yet another reason to cheer.

Gonzaga President Katia Passerini, Ph.D. and Forging Forward San Jose event attendees pose for a group photos
Gonzaga President Katia Passerini, Ph.D., presidents at the Forging Forward San Jose event

 

º£½ÇÂÛ̳ Forging Forward

forging forward San Jose 

Forging Forward is national event series for Gonzaga alumni, families and friends to connect personally with Katia Passerini, Ph.D., Gonzaga º£½ÇÂÛ̳'s new president. This national tour offers an opportunity to hear directly from President Passerini as she shares her perspectives, priorities and hopes for Gonzaga's future.

Registration proceeds help expand scholarships and programs that advance Gonzaga's mission.