Message From The Chief Diversity Officer
Dear University Community,
As we are a month into a new academic year, I want to take a momenttowelcome all new students, new and returning faculty, and staff tocampusand into a campus committed toinclusive excellence.
Robin Kelley, Ph.D. Chief Diversity Officer
September marks both a beginning and an opportunity: to reflect on our values, recommit toour goals, and reimagine what equity, inclusion, and belonging can look like in our community and daily interactions.
This year, our inclusive excellence work continues to evolve. We are building on the foundations of previous efforts while expanding our reach through new initiatives, partnerships, programs, and leadership development opportunities. One of these is the Inclusive Excellence Leadership Academy, which launches this fall with a powerful cadre of changemakers from faculty and staff across thecampus.We look forwardto another year of the Academy and our collective work. There is more information inside this edition.
The Office of Inclusive Excellence's theme for the year is "Belonging in Action" which signifies a call to each of us to champion inclusive andjust values, but to embody them through everyday choices and systemic change. Creating a culture of belonging is intentional through how we teach, learn, lead, affirm, and listen.
In this edition of the Diversity Digest, you will find stories that inspire and teach, as well as events and resources to support youandyourjourney towards inclusive leadership, allyship, and solidarity.
Please enjoy this month's Diversity Digest.
Warm regards,
Sincerely yours,
Robin Kelley, Ph.D.
A NEW ERA OF BELONGING AT GONZAGA UNIVERSITY
As the new academic year begins, Gonzaga University stands at the threshold of a new era-one defined by hope, inclusion, and community. At the heart of this vision is Dr. Katia Passerini, who joins Gonzaga University as the first woman to lead the institution as its 27th president.
Dr. Passerini brings to Gonzaga a wealth of leadership and academic experience, having served as provost, senior executive vice president, and interim president at Seton Hall University.
Distinguished chair and dean at St. John's University; and professor of Management Information Systems and dean of the New Jersey Institute of Technology's Honors College. With M.B.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the George Washington University and a career spanning management consulting, technology management, and higher education leadership, Dr. Passerini is committed to championing knowledge, innovation, and community. "I'm here today because I believe that fundamentally, our education transforms lives," Passerini said in an interview with the Spokesman-Review on July 15th
KREM 2 News. Gonzaga University Welcomes First Woman President Dr. Katia Passerini. May 8, 2025
That same spirit of hope and belonging at Gonzaga was felt across campus at ZagFest, where students, staff, and faculty participated in activities like the Belonging Chain and Belonging Map, hosted by the Office of Inclusive Excellence. The Belonging Chain invited participants to write messages of connection and community on colorful paper links, joining them together in a chain that grew longer with each contribution. One student wrote, "Belonging means I'm a part of a community." Others shared, "I feel like I belong when my feelings are given a voice," and "Belonging means feeling that others understand me." By the end of the day, the chain symbolized the interconnectedness of the Gonzaga community. The Belonging Map provided another opportunity for reflection, inviting participants to place markers and notes on a world map to show where they call home. From Africa to the Philippines to Hawaii, to all the way back to Spokane, the map became a vivid illustration of the many cultures and backgrounds represented at Gonzaga. It was a reminder that belonging is not only found on campus, but also carried from the diverse stories, histories, and traditions each community member brings with them.
Together, these activities offered a tangible reminder of the shared commitment to inclusivity and connection, aligning seamlessly with Dr. Passerini's vision for Gonzaga's future.
As we welcome our new president and begin a new academic year, the Belonging Chain reminds us of what makes Gonzaga unique: a community built on hope, resilience, and care. Our ZagFest video highlights how you, too, are a vital link in Gonzaga's story
EDUCATION CORNER
Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is a national celebration inthe United States that takes place each year from September 15 to October 15. Ithonors the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The celebration begins on September 15, a significant date that marks the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence shortly after, on September 16 and September 18.
Throughout the month, communities across the country recognize and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage and significant achievements of Hispanic and Latinx individuals in areas such as education, politics, arts, music, science, and public service. It is a time to reflect on both the deep-rooted traditions and the vibrant, evolving contributions of Hispanic/Latinx communities to the fabric of American society.
At Gonzaga, Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a cultural celebration; it is an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, education, and reflection on equity, identity, and community. Several campus resources support this mission year-round. The Unity Multicultural Education Center (UMEC) offers mentorship, leadership opportunities, and programming focused on diversity and inclusion. The Office of
NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
September 15 to October 15
Inclusive Excellence (OIE) leads strategic initiatives and hosts events that foster an inclusive campus culture. Student-led organizations also play a vital role in this work. Latinx Unidos supports Latinx students through community-building, cultural expression, and advocacy. Similarly, the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) is dedicated to celebrating and promoting Latin American culture, heritage, and identity on campus. ALAS fosters a strong sense of community for Latinx/Hispanic students while also educating the broader Gonzaga community through cultural events, discussions, and advocacy. The group actively hosts events during Hispanic Heritage Month and throughout the academic yearto uplift Latinx voicesand create space for connection and belonging.
Join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by attending events, supporting Latinx voices, and learning more aboutthehistories that shape our collective Gonzaga experience.
EDUCATION CORNER
National Deaf Awareness Month
Deaf awareness
National Deaf Awareness Month, observed each September, is a timetohonorthe language, culture, and contributions of Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. This month-long observance seeks to educate the broader public, dismantle stereotypes, and promote greater awareness of the challenges and achievements of Deaf individuals. A central focus is the celebration of American Sign Language (ASL), a fully developed, visual language with its own grammar and structure. Through awareness and education, this month promotes the importance of inclusion, accessibility, and the recognition of Deaf culture as a vibrant and essential part of our society.
At Gonzaga University, the commitment to inclusion and accessibility is evident in the support available for Deafand hard-of-hearing students. The Disability Access office, located in Foley Library Room 208, plays a crucial rolein ensuring that all students have equal access to learning opportunities. Services offered include ASL interpreters, real-time captioning, assistive listening devices, and note-taking support. Students can begin the accommodations process by contacting the office at (509) 313-4134 or via email at disability@gonzaga.edu. The staff works closely with each student tocreate a personalized plan that meets their academic needs.
Faculty and staff are also provided with training and resources tocreateinclusive classroom environments. Gonzaga offers guidelines for working with interpreters, using accessible technology, and adapting teaching methods to support students with hearing impairments. These efforts reflect Gonzaga's broader missionof cura personalis, care for the whole person, by embracing the diversity of communication styles and learning needs. National Deaf Awareness Month serves as an important reminder of the value of inclusion and the power of creating accessible communities for everyone.
World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10, is a global initiative launched in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). This day serves as a reminder of the importance of suicide awareness and prevention, aiming toreduce stigma, encourageopen dialogue, and promote actions that can save lives. The 2024-2026 theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," invites communities to challenge misconceptions and foster hope through conversation, education, and connection.
Suicide continues to be a critical public health issue, with over 740,000 people dying by suicide globally eachyear, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. Inthe United States alone, approximately 47,000 lives are lostto suicide annually. Among college-aged individuals, suicide isthe second leading cause of death, underscoring the urgentneed for comprehensive support and resources in higher education communities.
At Gonzaga University, student well-being is a top priority. Several campus resources are available to support students' mental health and suicide prevention efforts. Gonzaga's Health& Counseling Services provides confidential mental health counseling, crisis intervention, and wellness support. The Office of Health Promotion offers educational programming focused on suicide prevention, self-care, and mental health awareness. The Center for Cura Personalis takes a holistic approach to student support, helping individuals navigate personal andacademic challenges by connecting themto appropriate resources. Additionally, the OUR House Collegiate Recovery Community supports students inrecoveryfrom substance use and mental health issues, offering a space grounded in connection, compassion, and personal growth.
Gonzaga Resources:
https://www.gonzaga.edu/student-life/health-well-being/office-of-healthpromotion/wellness-toolbox/suicide-and-self-harm
OIE PREVENTION TE M
5 THINGS EVERYONE NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT CONSENT
As we embark on a new school year, it's important to remind everyone that talking about consent leads to a safer, healthier, and happier campus community.We've put together a few things to keep in mind as you form friendships and relationships on campus.
1. Consent is not just about sex! We often only hear the word "consent" when we're talking about sexual relationships, but it's important to cultivate a culture of consent in all areas of our lives. The more we practice navigating consent in our daily lives, the easier it will be to talk about it in those intimate moments where it can feel awkward and intimidating. Practicing consent daily can mean asking for permission before venting to a friend about a sensitive topic, making sure everyoneagrees on the movie you're watching in your apartment on a Friday night, or asking yourroommate before youborrow their favorite t-shirt.
2. Everyone has a right to sexual self-determination and bodily autonomy. No matter what, youhave the right to decide when, where, and how you engage in sexual activities. No one should feel pressured or coerced into engaging in an activity they don't wantto participate in. Additionally, recognizing the right ofothersto bodily autonomy is an important part of respecting boundaries.
3. The absence of "no" does not mean "yes." We know it can feel intimidating to have an actual conversation about consentwith a partner, especially when it's someone you don't know very well, but it's important nottomake assumptions when hooking up.Just because someone is silent or doesn't push back does not mean that they are consenting to an activity. Consent should be enthusiastic, which means all parties are actively engaging and participating because they genuinely wantto.
OIE PREVENTION TEAM
4. Consent is not just permission, but a mutual agreement to engage in an activity. This means that talking about consentmay involve more than just asking a simple "yes" or "no" question; it also entails having a longer conversation about what you like and dislike, and communicating your boundaries effectively. Having a fullconversation will ensure everyone involved feels heard and respected, and it will also lead to more fulfilling sexual relationships.
5. There are resources available on campus! If youwanttolearn more about what consent means or how to discuss it, OIE's Prevention Team offers workshops andother opportunities to receive information. If you have experienced sexual violence andwantto talk to someone about what happened, you can reach out to our confidential campus advocate, talk to someone in Health and Counseling, or file a report with the Title IX office.
We hope these tips are helpful and we wish you all an outstanding school year!
Links to Report:
Title IX - Report an Incident Link: https://www.gonzaga.edu/about/offices-services/office-ofinclusive-excellence/title-ix/report-an-incident
Bias Report Link: https://www.gonzaga.edu/about/offices-services/office-of-inclusiveexcellence/bias-team
ASKOIETITLE IX ANYTHING
It can be confusing to understand and navigate Gonzaga's policies and procedures related to Title IX, Harassmentand Non-Discrimination, and bias incidents. Below, we have answered some frequently asked questions that have come up in the training we conduct across campus. If you would like to ask us a question about the Title IX or Harassment and Non-Discrimination policies or grievance processes, scan the following QR code:
What does it mean to be a mandated reporter on campus and what does that mean for student reporters dealing with peer issues?
All Gonzaga employees are mandatory reporters. Thisincludesall student employees, even if it is an incident being shared with you by a friend while you are off duty. The only exceptions to this mandatory reporter role for all employees are licensed practitioners in Health and Counseling, our campus advocate, and clergy when acting in a ministerial role.
If someonewere to tell me off-hand that a verbal assault was witnessed, but I did not witness it myself, am I mandated to report it? What about situations that have happened to me, a friend, or someone else before I was a mandated reporter?
If you hear of an incident of verbal assault and you know the full name of the harmed party, please report that, even if you did not witness it yourself. If you don't know who the harmed party is, you do not have to ask questions to figure out who it is, but it may be kind to let the individual who is telling you know that there are resources available to help whoever was harmed, in case they are willing topassthemessage along.
ASK OIE TITLE IX ANYTHING
If you are a mandatory reporter andyou experience any form of harassment or discrimination, including sexual or relationship violence, you get to choose whether you report that on your own. Gonzaga employees are NOT mandatory reporters for harm they have personally experienced under our policies.
If you are a new mandatory reporter, you do notneedto report past incidents you learned about before you became a mandatory reporter. It can be helpful to let your friends know right away that you are now a mandatory reporter, because you will be expected to report new incidents, even if it is a friend sharing that information with you outside of your working hours.
Should I report less obvious instances of harm such as harassment or verbal abuse?
Harassment and/or verbal abuse are also prohibited behaviors. If you observe or hear about an incident of verbal abuse, please report what youknow about it. Our office will determine ifit rises tothe level of a policy violation andthe information is still helpful to us even if it does not.
For instance, if we receive a report that an individual hasmade a harassing or threatening comment, that single comment might not be a policy violation, but could still warrant an educational conversation. If we receive multiple reports of an individual making harassing or threatening comments, thenwe're able to recognize a pattern that might raise the incident to the level of a policy violation.
Our office may also choose to refer a report that does not meet the criteria for a policy violation under either the Title IX or Harassment & Non-Discrimination policies toanother department for follow-up when appropriate.
ASK OIE TITLE IX ANYTHING
How do I report an incident of sexual misconduct or harassment and/or discrimination?
Students, faculty, and staff can report instances of sexual misconduct, harassment, or discrimination using the online reporting form found atthe footer of every Gonzaga webpage under the "Title IX" link or via the QR code below. We ask that you include the full names of the involved parties and 2 3 sentences about the incident, but please report even if you don't have all the information.
What happens after a report is submitted?
After a report is filed, the Title IX Coordinator will reachouttothe impacted party through their university email to provide supportive resourcesand offer tomeet in person to discuss the situation. If you have submitted a report as a mandatory reporter or as someone who has knowledge of an incident but was notthe impacted party, you will not hear from our office unless we need more information to continue our processes. Additionally, to protect the privacy of the investigation and to minimize retaliation, we won't be ableto provide status updates toyou; however, we are very appreciative of your cooperation in the reporting process!
STUDENT SPOTLIGH
Nick Peralta
Marketing, School of Business Administration
For Nick Peralta, a senior from San Diego, California, community has always been important to him. It's what drew him to Gonzaga University and continues to shapehis experiences. "I really wanted to be in an environment that focused on community," Nick says. "Having those smaller class sizes helpsbuild a good relationship with your professors, and getting thechance to establish that connection was really important to me." Although he originally wanted to study environmental science,helaterfound a passionforbusiness. Currently, Nickispursuinghis degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management Information Systems and International Business, and a minor in EnvironmentalStudies.Beyondhisacademicpursuits,Nickis a fanofJhenéAiko and lovesfood.He enjoys various cuisines, including Mexican, Lebanese, and Koreanfood. He also likes acai bowls,chicken katsu, chicken shawarma, and pozole.
During his time at Gonzaga, He'sbeen an integral partofthe Hawaiian Pacific Islander Club (HPIC) for three years and now serves as secretary. "Before I lived inSan Diego, I used to live in Hawaii, and having a little piece ofHawaii, a place I still considerhome,is a really big partof making me who I am," he shares. "Even if I don't belong to the culture ethnically, having that shared experience means a lot. Being able to give back to the club isreallyimportant to me."Nick also works as a Social Justice Peer Educator (SJPE) at UMEC, a space hedescribes as both a place to hang out with friends and a platform for real impact. Hisworkallowshim to engage the campus community in meaningful conversations around social justice. "It's about creating outreach and making space for discussions people don't always want to have," he explains. Hisadvice to underclassmen is to "Be uncomfortable. Be brave.Be willing to gointo spaces that scare you and just introduce yourself." He encouragesstudents to attendclub fairs, explore culture clubs, and most importantly-get excited to participate.
HPIC's Lu'au 2024
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
Robin Pickering, Ph.D. Professor and Chair of Public Health
Meet Robin Pickering, PhD, Professor and Chair of Public Health at Gonzaga University. A Spokane native, Dr. Pickering now worksjust 3.6 miles from her childhood home, which is something she finds deeply meaningful as she gives backto the very community that shaped her. She earned her undergraduate degree in Health Promotion and Wellness after a few major changes, starting in Psychology and briefly exploring Radio/Television. Her career began with an internship at Apple in Corporate Wellness, followed by work in the fitness industry. A return to academia after her daughter's birth led her to earn a Ph.D., and she went on to teach at the University of Idaho, EWU, and Whitworth before joining Gonzaga, earning tenure at allthree institutions (a featshe jokingly advises against). Dr. Pickering's research focuses on howsocial support influences health outcomes, particularly for women, and she's passionate about translating these findings into healthier, more supportive workplace cultures. She loves teaching a variety of public health topics, especially when students are engaged and curious, and describes herself as a generalist rather than a specialist. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, painting, traveling, reading mystery thrillers, and trying new hobbies. Among her proudest accomplishments is running a marathon, despite tearing her plantar fascia with seven miles to go!
Dr. Pickering is passionate about public health and its importance. Check out an article she wrote from last Spring about the role of public healthand some ofthe resources here at Gonzaga.
Why Public Health is Important
Learn more by scanning or clicking the QR Code
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Nick Wood
Facilities Coordinator II, GUEST
When students, faculty, and community members gather for an eventat Gonzaga, whetherit's a major cultural celebration, a visitfrom university leadership, or a student talent show, there's a good chance Nick Wood is quietly making it all happen in the background. As Facilities Coordinator II, Nick handles the audio-visualand physical setup for nearly every non-athleticevent on campus. From simple mic-and-laptop arrangements to fullmulti-camera livestreams, Nick ensures that the technical side of things runs seamlessly. "My job is really about creating theconditionsforthesemoments to happen," he says. "One day I'm setting up cameras for a president-level event, andthenext I'm helping a student club pull off their biggest event of the year. That's what keeps it exciting, no two days are ever the same."
It'sthe community, not just thework,thatkeepsNick energized. Someofhis favorite events to support are those hosted by Gonzaga's cultural clubs, many of which take months of planning and coordination. "Those events are often the biggest things these students will organize during their time here," he says. "I love seeing the room filledwith joy and support. You look around, and allthe clubs are thereforeachother.Thewhole space isfulloflove.It'shard not to bemoved by that." When asked what advice he'd give to students, Nick doesn't hesitate: "Get involved. That's the biggest thing. The students I see thriving, academically and socially, are the ones who dive in. They join clubs, they show up to events, and they get jobs on campus. Evenjust doing homeworkinUMEC with friends creates a connection. You grow when you're connectedto your community." He's seen it time and time again, even among the student staff he works with in GUEST. "They're not just coworkers. They becomefriends. They hang out, support each other, and experience whatGonzaga's about together."
Looking forward, Nick hopes that Gonzaga continues to lead by example when it comes to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Nick hopesthelittle things such as opening a door, remembering a name, or helping a student feel seen will always be part of the culture at GU. "Those things matter. They're what makethis place feel different. And as long as I'm here, I'll keep doing my part to make sure that continues."
STUDENT CULTURE CLUB SPOTLIGHT
Korean Student Association (KSA)
At Gonzaga University, theKorean Student Association (KSA) was founded in Fall of 2024. Founded by Ashley Chon, a student who graduated last May, KSA's mission is tocreate an inclusive space where Korean culture is celebrated, shared, and preserved. "We were talking about it for a while," Ashley shared. "Eventually, we just said, 'Let's dothis,'and brought it to life." Getting theclub approved involved creating a constitution and going through formal procedures with the student involvement office, but their passion carried them through the procesS.
KSA plays an essential role in representing Korean culture on campus. Through events like Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) and Seollal (Lunar New Year), members invite students to experience key traditions. The club also serves as a vital support system for Korean international students and students of Korean descent. "It'snice to have a space where you feel like you don't have to explain yourself,"Ashley said. "You can just be." She also noted that Korean culture is often reduced to K-pop and beauty standards. While these are popular, she hopes KSA can help students understand the deeper values that shape Korean identity.
Looking ahead, Ashley hopes KSA will continueto grow and remain a space where all students feel valued and empowered to explore culture together. "We're here to build bridges," she said. "KSA is about more than being Korean. It's about being in community."
MEDIA RECOMMENDATIONS
JAVIER ZAMOR
VisionsofUs
Solito by Javier Zamora Book
A young poet tells the unforgettable story of his harrowing migration from El Salvador to the UnitedStates at the age of nine in this moving, page-turning memoir hailed as "the mythic journey of our era" (Sandra Cisneros). Solito is Javier Zamora's story, but it's also the story of millions of others who had no choice but to leave home.
Documentary Series
In this four-part Netflix doc series, trans Dominican-American director Kase Peña shines a light on LGBTQ+ representation and celebrates queer Latinx characters on TV and film. Visions of Us highlights groundbreaking moments throughout the history of Latinx and trans representation on screen and honors the struggles and triumphs behind such representation.
VISIONS OF US
Encanto Movie
DisnEp ENCANTO
After Maria
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift - every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals' lasthope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger.
Documentary
Directed by Afro-Latinx filmmaker Nadia Hallgren (director of Becoming, the Emmy-nominated doc about former First Lady Michelle Obama), After Maria tells the story of a group of Puerto Rican women forced to leave their island in October 2017 on the heels ofthe devastating Hurricane Maria. The women bond in a Brooklyn FEMA hotel and try to find stability in their new lives, hoping to return home someday.
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
Office of Inclusive Excellence
Colleagues of Color Reconnect & Reimagine Fall Kickoff
About: Enjoy lunch, meet new and familiar faces, andtake part in belonging activities and guided conversationsthat help us reflect on who we are andwherewe're going together. Where: Humanities Building, Room 153 College Common
When: Wednesday, September 10, 12:15 PM 1:15PM
IMPACT
About: We invite you to thefirst IMPACT Affinity Group meeting oftheyear.This is a great opportunity toconnect with others, reflect on our shared goals, and help shape the group's direction for the coming year.
Where: Hemmingson 201 - Joann Jundt Lounge
When: Tuesday, September 16, 12:15PM - 1:15 PM
Inclusive Excellence Leadership Academy AY 2025-2026
The InclusiveExcellence Leadership Academy (IEL Academy) builds on the DiversityEdu intercultural learning course, aiming to enhance intercultural fluency and cultural competence within the Gonzaga University community. The academy offers a multidisciplinary program that addresses topics such as oppression, antiracism, equity, inclusion, privilege, implicit bias, and gender identities. Participants must attend a 1-hour orientation, complete 10 workshops and work on a cohort project. Graduates will receive an "Inclusive Excellence Certificate" and complete an Intercultural Development Inventory assessment.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
November 4, 2025
Questions contact:Robin Kelley: kelleyr2@gonzaga.edu or inclusiveexcellence@gonzaga.edu
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
Campus Events
Mountain Film on Tour
About: Mountainfilm on Tour brings a selection of adventurepacked, inspiring documentaries from the Telluride festival to Spokane. Proceeds benefit theJess Roskelley Foundation, supporting youth development, climbing access, and stewardship across the Pacific Northwest in honor of Spokaneborn alpinist Jess Roskelley.
Where: Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, Coughlin Theater
When: Thursday, Sep 11, 2025 | 6:30 PM
Work Culture in Generation Z
About: Jointhe School of Business and the Jud Regis Chair of Accounting for guest speaker Ty Beasley, Chief Talent Officer atRSM.
Where: Jepson Center Wolff Auditorium
When: Wednesday, Sep 17, 2025 | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Gonzaga Dance Presents Sea Change Within Us with Karin Stevens Dance
About: Sea Change Within Us, by Seattle-based Karin Stevens Dance (KSD), is a multi-media collaborationwith Gonzaga Dance students exploring Washington's water concerns andthe impacts of climate change. During a residency in September, KSD will set choreography on Gonzaga students, who will perform alongside thecompany in the2025 26Season Opener. Where: Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center
When: Friday, Sep 19, 2025 |7:30 PM
School of Business Administration
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
Lyyra
About: Lyyra, created by the VOCES8 Foundation, isthe only professional six-voice women's a cappella group in the U.S. Praisedfortheir "perfect sound" (Passauer Neue Presse), they bring velvety richnessand brilliance to classical, jazz, pop, and folktraditions.
Where: The Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center 211 E Desmet Ave Spokane, WA 99258
When: Wednesday, Sep 24, 2025 | 7:30 PM
History of Gonzaga
About: This is an Inauguration Week event! Discover the rich and evolving story of Gonzaga University in this compelling and interactive presentation tracing the University's deep roots and enduring impact, along with the partnerships and pivotal decisions that have shaped Gonzaga's legacy of faith, leadership, and innovation.
Where: Hemmingson Auditorium
When: Tuesday, Sep 23, 2025 | 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Mission in Motion:
A Showcase of Strategic Impact
About: As part of Inauguration Week, the Mission in Motion Showcase features Gonzaga Centers, Institutes, and Offices sharing how their work advances the University's Strategic Plan. Presentations highlight student success, innovative partnerships, and solutions to pressing societal needs, showcasing the many ways Gonzaga activates its mission to create meaningful change.
Where: Hemmingson Ballroom
When: Wednesday, Sep 24, 2025 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
Global Engagement Faculty Development Award Showcase
About: As part of Inauguration Week, the Global Engagement Showcase features a lightning round of faculty presentations on researchand activities that impact our community and world, advancing Gonzaga's commitmenttocultural understanding, global issues, and new ideas.
Where: Jundt Lounge, Hemmingson Center
When: Wednesday, Sep 24, 2025 | 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Inauguration of Katia Passerini, Ph.D., Gonzaga's 27th President
About: Heartfelt thanks to Gonzaga's generous benefactors and sponsors for making thishistoricoccasion possible through their support.
Where:
Inauguration Mass - 10:30 AM |St. Aloysius Church
Installation Ceremony - 2PM | McCarthey Athletic Center
Community Reception 3:30 PM | McCarthey Athletic
CenterLawn
When: Friday, Sep 26, 2025 | Allday
Zagapalooza
About: The all-class reunion weekend celebrates Gonzaga's 27th president, Katia Passerini, Ph.D., with activities for all ages. The Zagapalooza includes Gonzaga in Florence, Bing Crosby: 100 Years of Entertainment, DeSmet 100th Anniversary Open House, Hogan 25th Anniversary Alumni Panel & Social, and the Unity Brunch with Lavender and Alumni of Color Communities.
Where: Gonzaga University Campus
When: Events run from Friday, Sept. 26, and continue through Sunday, Sept. 28, as part of Zagapalooza.
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
Spokane Events
Spokane County Interstate Fair
About: The Spokane County Interstate Fair runs September 5 14attheFair& Expo Center (Broadway & Havana). Enjoy livestock shows, thrilling rides, live concerts, great food, and local vendors. For over 70 years, the fair has celebrated Spokane's community spirit. Join us for ten days of family funand entertainment!
Where: Spokane County Fair & Expo Center, 404 N Havana St, Spokane Valley, WA 99202
When: Sept 5 - Sept 14 | Weekdays 11AM, Weekends 10AM
Fire: Rebirth and Resilience
About: Fires have long symbolized both devastation and renewal. From Spokane's Great Fire of 1889 to today's wildfires, discover how these events have reshaped communities and inspired resilience across the region.
Where: Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, 2316 W 1st Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
When: Sept 9 - Sept 28 | 10AM-5PM, Closed on Monday
Drew Lynch
About: Drew Lynch, Golden Buzzer recipient and runner-up on America's Got Talent Season 10, has since built a worldwide fanbase with millions of followers, sold-out tours, and viral specials, including his 2023 release And These Are Jokes. Don't miss his unforgettable night of comedy!
Where: Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201
When: Sept 11 - Sept 13, Various time
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS
Personal to Political: Celebrating the African American Artists of Paulson Fontaine Press
About: Featuring forty prints and mixed works by contemporary African American artists, this traveling exhibition explores how personal narratives and political issues are powerfully visualized through art. Organized by Bedford Gallery atthe Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek, CA
Where:Jundt Art Center &Museum,200E Desmet Ave, Spokane, WA 99202
When: Sep 13 - Dec 20 | 10AM - 4PM, Closed on Sunday
Legally Blonde
About: The award-winning musical Legally Blonde follows Elle Woods from sorority life toHarvardLawin a fabulously fun story of determination and self-discovery. After being dumped, Elle surprises everyone, including herself, by tackling law school, defying stereotypes, and proving she's more than pink and perfect.
Where: Spokane Civic Theater, Margot and Robert Ogden Main Stage, 1020 N Howard St, Spokane, WA 99201
When: Sep 19 - Oct 12, Various time
Just Between Friends
About: Tired of overspending on clothes your kids outgrow? Shop Just Between Friends to save big on clothes, shoes, toys, books, and baby gear, everything your child needs for the next season.
Where: Spokane Fair and Expo Center, 404 N Havana St, Spokane, WA99212
When: Fri, Sep 26 9AM-8PM; Sat, Sept 27 9AM-4PM; Sun, Sept 28 8AM-1PM
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EDITORIAL BOARD
Ashlinn Aguayo
Christine C. Burge
Alexis Ewing, M.B.A.
Bethany Hickey, M...
Robin M. Kelley, Ph.D.
May Ly
TrieuKhanh Vy Nguyen
Kristina Poffenroth
Meghan C. Ridgely, M.L.S.