Note: This message was originally sent on April 22, 2024
Reflecting on the significant news we shared out from Gonzaga today, I thought you might enjoy reading this article, which was published in the Fall 2009 Gonzaga Magazine. This was one of the first stories Gonzaga published about Dr. McCulloh, then the University’s interim president, and his family. I’ve pulled out some of what I think are the most notable quotes from President McCulloh in the article:
“None of the efforts of which I have been a part would have been successful without the consistent, generous, and sustained commitment of Jesuits, lay colleagues, students, and our governing boards – often working in collaboration.”
“Going to school at Gonzaga was an inspiration to me throughout my time in the Army. I wanted to come back here and without that hope, I don’t know how my life would have turned out.”
“Julie is my wife, and best friend. We want what’s best for each other and we’ve always kept that, and the nurturing of our family at the heart of our life together.”
That was 2009, and today we are met with these reflections from Dr. McCulloh in sharing that the next academic year (2024-25) will be his final one as Gonzaga’s president:
“While this announcement is required to signal an upcoming search, there is much yet to be done in the coming year. Most of all, our students deserve the best of what I, and we, can give. I thus look forward to our continued work together and thank you in advance for the support I know you will continue to offer. In the words of my freshman residence hall chaplain, the great Fr. Tony Lehmann, S.J.: ‘Life is changing, not ending. Therefore, I say: ‘To be continued.’’”
“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.”
This is significant news; we must pause and acknowledge with gratitude Dr. McCulloh’s leadership, the wisdom he has brought to Gonzaga and the way he has stewarded the University’s culture. I also know that one of the most powerful ways we can acknowledge his legacy is to jump right back into the work tomorrow, as our students deserve the best of what we can give!
PS – Nice article in the Spokesman Review