Gonzaga University has named its 27th president, Katia Passerini, who will succeed Thayne M. McCulloh effective July 15.

The Gonzaga University Board of Trustees announced Passerini's appointment today after a seven-month search resulting in a unanimous vote in favor of electing the new leader, says board chair D. Michael Reilly, in a press release.

Christy Larsen, chair of the university's presidential search committee, says in the release, "Passerini displayed her capability and desire to be a leader who will navigate the challenges, concerns, and joys of the changing landscape of higher education."

Passerini will come to Gonzaga from Seton Hall University, in South Orange, New Jersey, where she has been serving as provost and senior executive vice president, and previously served as interim president during the 2023-24 academic year.

Passerini is a lifelong Catholic and native of Italy who holds degrees in political science and economics from Luiss University and the University of Rome Tor Vergata, respectively. She also has a master's degree and doctorate from George Washington University.

"Her previous academic and administrative appointments have prepared her well for this next stage in a stellar higher education career," Reilly says.

Passerini and her family will relocate to Spokane this summer.

McCulloh, who was the first non-Jesuit to lead the university, previously announced his plans to retire after the 2024-25 academic year following 16 years serving as president.

"I am very excited to join the Gonzaga University family this coming summer," Passerini says in the release. "Coming to know this community and discovering together how it will continue its success is going to be a wonderful journey."