Drone photo showing College Hall building and St. Aloysius chruch at sunset.
Celebrating President McCulloh

Leading Gonzaga Together


"We are a university called to live and learn and teach and explore not comfortably at the center of the culture, but at the frontiers – the cutting edge, the margins, places that require courage. What our world needs today are educated people who can and will transform the world."
– Thayne M. McCulloh (Inaugural Address, 2011)

Portrait of President Thayne McCulloh from December 2024.

Looking Back on an Incredible Tenure

After a combined 34 years at the University – and leading as our president for the past 16 – Thayne McCulloh announced he would step down from this role in July 2025. As President McCulloh's tenure comes to a close, join us in reflecting on the remarkable strides Gonzaga made under his leadership, thriving made possible by the teamwork of students, faculty, alumni, staff, donors and community partners. See the impressive list of accomplishments

Check back in the coming months for additional events, stories and more!

We invite you to share a note of gratitude for Dr. McCulloh's remarkable 34 years of service to Gonzaga University.

Highlights of Dr. McCulloh's Tenure

26th

President of Gonzaga University – and its first lay president

Established a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa (ΦBK), nation's most prestigious honor society

$355

Million raised during "Gonzaga Will" capital campaign

First #1 national ranking and two national title game appearances for men's basketball

More highlights and accomplishments
President Thayne McCulloh congratulates a female graduate at the 2023 Commencement ceremony.

Celebrating with President McCulloh

Here are several ways Gonzaga will celebrate with Dr. McCulloh throughout the final months of his presidency.

Spring Events

Expect to see an interesting twist on some of our usual programs, including:

  • Gonzaga Day: February 22 – A day to celebrate the spirit and community that make Gonzaga, Gonzaga! This year’s Gonzaga Day will honor Dr. McCulloh, the University's 26th president. See how you can be part of the tradition.
  • WCC Tournament: March 6-11 (Las Vegas) – Join us to cheer on our women's and men's basketball teams! 
  • Zags Give Day: March 6 – An online day of giving with a special emphasis on our 26th president.

Special Occasions

  • Ignatian Gala: April 10 – Honoring the numerous contributions and impact of Julie and Thayne McCulloh. 
  • GU Community Celebration: May 5 –  A chance for all GU faculty, staff and students to celebrate Julie and Thayne McCulloh. More details coming soon. Save the date!

Media 

Check back for special content:

  • A podcast interview series highlighting Dr. McCulloh's reflections on important themes for Gonzaga and higher education more broadly. Anticipated release in March. 
  • Features in the spring issue of Gonzaga Magazine. Publishing in April.