April 22, 2024
Dear Members of the Gonzaga Community,
I write to inform you that this coming academic year (2024-2025) will be my last as president at this remarkable university.
This decision follows a lengthy period of reflection, discernment, and consultation with the Board of Trustees, and with my partner in all things, Julie. After 15 years as president, it is time to prepare the way for others to have the honor and responsibility of leading Gonzaga into its future. It is my hope that by informing the community now, the Board of Trustees can be advantaged as regards the search and transition process, and an excellent successor in place by July 2025.
Higher education finds itself in a time of great change, and there is much to be done to position Gonzaga for continued success. In the coming year, I am committed to working together with the Trustees, our administration, faculty, and staff – as well as the broader university and Spokane communities – to advance and complete several important projects and initiatives alongside the regular responsibilities of the work. Gonzaga will continue to face and wrestle with the complex realities of our time; but I am confident its future is filled with hope, opportunity, and even greater achievements to come.
Over these past decades the University has accomplished many incredible things, all of which have been made possible through the collective efforts of many wonderful colleagues and supporters. Julie and I feel blessed to have been able to work with so many talented and devoted Jesuits, faculty, staff, board members, alumni and friends – and with thousands of gifted and community-minded students. After 30-plus years working at Gonzaga, we together look forward to new post-retirement opportunities and adventures. Gonzaga is on the cusp of many new and exciting possibilities, and we look forward to celebrating these with you!
Sincerely yours,
Thayne M. McCulloh, D.Phil.
President