May 2026 Diversity Digest

Diversity Digest Message from the Chief Diversity Officer To the Class of 2026 Education Corner Spotlights Media Recommendations What’s Happening!

Announcements & Events

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

Message From The Chief Diversity Officer

Dear Gonzaga Campus Community, This has been a long semester. A semester marked by genuine joy, and real challenges. As we reach its closing, I want to take a moment to congratulate our graduating students, whose persistence and growth have been a privilege to witness, and to honor the faculty and staff who walked alongside them every step of the way.

I leave you with these words from Joy Harjo, our nation's former Poet Laureate. A poem that is a reminder of what grounds us, connects us, and calls us forward.

Remember

By Joy Harjo Remember the sky that you were born under, know each of the star's stories.

Remember the moon, know who she is.

Remember the sun's birth at dawn, that is the strongest point of time. Remember sundown and the giving away to night.

Remember your birth, how your mother struggled to give you form and breath. You are evidence of her life, and her mother's, and hers.

Remember your father. He is your life, also.

Remember the earth whose skin you are: red earth, black earth, yellow earth, white earth, brown earth, we are earth.

Remember the plants, trees, animal life who all have their tribes, their families, their histories, too. Talk to them, listen to them. They are alive poems.

Remember the wind. Remember her voice. She knows the origin of this universe.

Remember you are all people and all people are you.

Remember you are this universe and this universe is you.

Remember all is in motion, is growing, is you.

Remember language comes from this.

Remember the dance language is, that life is.

Remember.

Wishing you rest, renewal, and joy this summer.

Robin Kelley, Ph.D. Chief Diversity Officer Office of Inclusive Excellence

DIVERSITY DIGEST

Nov May2024 2026

TO THE CLASS OF 2026 Insert Text Here

As the Gonzaga University Class of 2026 prepares to cross the stage at commencement, a season of reflection, celebration, and anticipation fills campus. After years marked by growth, perseverance, leadership, and connection, graduates now stand ready to begin a new chapter beyond the walls of Gonzaga.

Their time as students has been shaped not only by academic achievement, but also by the relationships, traditions, and moments that made Gonzaga feel like home. From late nights studying in Foley Library to cheering in the Kennel on game days, the Class of 2026 leaves behind memories that will remain long after graduation day.

The journey to graduation has been defined by more than classes and assignments.

Throughout their years at Gonzaga, students discovered communities that encouraged them to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually.

Campus organizations, service opportunities, athletics, leadership roles, and everyday interactions helped shape a class grounded in compassion, resilience, and purpose. Whether through meaningful conversations between classes, coffee runs with friends, or quiet moments along the Spokane River, students built connections that became central to their Gonzaga experience.

DIVERSITY DIGEST

Photo courtesy of @gonzagau on Instagram

May 2026

As graduation approaches, campus traditions once familiar now carry deeper meaning.

Seniors spend their final weeks revisiting favorite campus spots, attending end-of-year celebrations “senior sunset,” and reflecting on how much they have changed since arriving at Gonzaga.

For many, the university became more than a place of learning; it became a place where lifelong friendships were formed, passions were discovered, and future paths began to take shape. The experiences shared over the past four years created a strong sense of belonging that unites the Class of 2026 as they prepare to move forward together one last time.

Gonzaga University’s 2026 Undergraduate Commencement ceremony will take place on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the Spokane Arena. Later in the afternoon, graduates, families, faculty, and staff will gather for Commencement Mass at St. Aloysius Church, continuing a longstanding Gonzaga tradition of reflection and gratitude.

As the Class of 2026 steps confidently into the future, they carry with them the values and experiences that defined their time at Gonzaga. Though their journeys now lead in different directions, they remain connected by the spirit of being a Zag: a commitment to leadership, service, and community. The lessons learned, friendships formed, and memories created during their years at Gonzaga will continue to guide them wherever life takes them next.

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

EDUCATION CORNER Awareness Events of May Mental Health Awareness Month This campaign aims to educate the public about various mental health disorders and promote the importance of mental health care and support. It encourages open conversations, reduces stigma, and advocates accessible mental health services for all.

National Military Appreciation Month Throughout May, we honor and remember those who have served our nation.

Celebrate their dedication and sacrifice by donating to nonprofit organizations that provide essential support to military families, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve.

Teacher Appreciation Week

Celebrated during the first full week of May, it’s celebrated from Monday, May 4 through Friday, May 8. This annual week-long celebration is an opportunity to show teachers they are valued, appreciated, and deserve more support.

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

EDUCATION CORNER Awareness Events of May Haitian Heritage Month Enjoy the vibrant art, cuisine, and music of the Haitian community while acknowledging the historical challenges they have faced. This month provides an opportunity to celebrate Haitian culture, recognize their resilience, and appreciate their contributions to our shared heritage.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Take time to recognize and celebrate the profound impact that Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures have had on the social fabric of America. This month highlights their contributions, achievements, and the rich cultural diversity they bring to our communities.

Jewish American Heritage Month Celebrating the history and culture of Jewish Americans. Learn about their significant contributions to the cultural and social development of both countries and appreciate the diverse heritage that has shaped our societies.

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Ashlinn Aguayo

Political Science, College of Arts and Sciences We are pleased to spotlight Ashlinn Aguayo, a graduating senior majoring in Political Science with minors in Digital Marketing and English. This fall, she will begin graduate school at New York University, where she will pursue a master’s degree in journalism as part of a highly competitive, 12-person cohort. Her long-term goal is to build a career in journalism or broadcasting, particularly in areas connected to law and advocacy, using storytelling as a tool to uplift and support marginalized communities.

“I’ve always been drawn to work that gives people a voice,” Ashlinn shares. “Journalism feels like a powerful way to inform, advocate, and create meaningful change.”

During her time at Gonzaga, Ashlinn has been a dedicated member of the Women’s Track and Field team and an active leader in the Women’s Network, a professional development club she joined as a freshman. She began as a Campus Ambassador, later served as Vice President, and ultimately became President in her senior year. Through these roles, she developed strong skills in organizational leadership, team building, and collaboration. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself,” she says. “It’s about trusting your team, delegating, and creating space for others to step up and shine.”

In her junior year, Ashlinn pursued work experience that aligned with both her academic interests and personal values. Drawn to the Office of Inclusive Excellence’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, she joined as a Digital Marketing Assistant.

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

As a first-generation Hispanic student, she felt a deep connection to the office’s mission. In this role, she used her marketing background to amplify underrepresented voices across campus through social media and digital storytelling. “My favorite part of working with Office of Inclusive Excellence was being able to combine my passion for digital marketing with purpose,” Ashlinn explains.

Her dedication also carried into athletics, where she was recognized as Gonzaga’s StudentAthlete of the Month in April 2025. One of her most cherished memories is competing at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, where she achieved a new 800m PR of 2:13.13, that got her onto the Top 10 All Time list for Gonzaga University.

Photo Courtesy of Gonzaga Athletics Whitworth Last Chance Meet 2025

Looking ahead, Ashlinn is excited to begin the next chapter of her journey in New York City. She is especially eager to pursue internships and gain hands-on experience in journalism. While she doesn’t necessarily see herself settling in New York long-term, she welcomes the challenge and growth that comes with stepping into a new environment.

“There’s a lot of unknown ahead, but there’s a lot of beauty in that as well” she says.

“Gonzaga has prepared me in so many ways, and I’m excited to see how everything I’ve learned will guide me moving forward.” We wish her the very best in this new chapter of life!

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Idalia Bucio

Business Administration, School of Business We are proud to spotlight Idalia Bucio, a graduating senior whose Gonzaga journey has been shaped by academic growth, leadership, and a commitment to inclusion. One of Idalia’s favorite parts of her Gonzaga experience has been the well-rounded education she received, one that prepared her not only for her career, but for life. “While my business classes have given me strong practical skills and a solid foundation for my career, I’ve also really valued the opportunity to learn beyond my major,” Idalia shared.

Through various courses in her higher education, she was challenged to think critically, communicate effectively, and reflect on bigger questions of meaning, ethics, and purpose.

“That combination has made my education feel more complete and impactful, not just professionally, but personally as well,” she said. Outside of the classroom, Idalia made the most of her time at Gonzaga by getting involved in several organizations, including New Venture Lab, ALAS, Women in Business, and TeamHub. She notes these experiences, “pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone, take on new challenges, and develop both personally and professionally.”

Through these extracurricular activities, Idalia built strong connections with peers from diverse backgrounds, collaborated on projects, attended events, and strengthened her teamwork and leadership skills. Idalia also found purpose in her role as a student employee in Gonzaga’s Office of Inclusive Excellence (OIE). Working alongside a supportive team dedicated to fostering inclusion was one of the most rewarding parts of her college experience. “My favorite part of working for OIE while I was a student was the opportunity to constantly learn and grow while being part of a supportive and meaningful team,” she said.

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

Through her work, Idalia further developed her communication, collaboration, and leadership skills while contributing to efforts that actively supported and represented diversity on campus.

“Being part of that mission made my work feel purposeful and impactful, and it was something I was proud to be involved in during my time as a student,” she shared.

Academically, Idalia studied Business Administration with concentrations in Economics and International Business, giving her a strong understanding of business principles, global markets, and economic systems. “I hope to utilize my education to excel in the workforce by applying the skills and knowledge I’ve gained in real-world settings,” she said.

Whether it’s analyzing markets, working across cultures, or contributing to strategic decisionmaking, Idalia is excited to continue growing professionally and making a meaningful impact in a global business environment.

After graduation, Idalia is looking forward to returning to California and beginning the next chapter of her career. “I’m especially excited about the opportunity to work in a marketing or consulting firm where I can apply what I’ve learned and continue to grow,” she said. She hopes to find an environment that challenges her personally and professionally. Idalia’s time at Gonzaga reflects ambition, resilience, and a passion for growth. Her involvement across campus and dedication to inclusive excellence have made a lasting impact, and we are excited to see all that she accomplishes next.

We wish her the very best in her future endeavors!

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Vy Nguyen

Economics, School of Business Administration We’re excited to highlight graduating senior Vy Nguyen, an Economics major whose time at Gonzaga has been defined by community, culture, and connection. Originally an international student seeking a place to belong, Vy found more than just an education at Gonzaga, she found a home.

“The best part for me has been the people,” Vy shared. “I’ve met amazing friends and made memories that really mean a lot to me. Gonzaga just feels like a place where I’ve grown both in school and in life.” Throughout her four years at Gonzaga, Vy has been deeply involved on campus, especially through the Vietnamese Student Association (VSA).

Since her freshman year, VSA has been a meaningful part of her college journey.

“VSA really feels like my second home,” she said. “It’s a place where I can stay connected to my culture and be my most authentic self.” Through her involvement, Vy helped organize cultural events such as the annual Tế t celebration, creating opportunities for students and the broader Gonzaga community to come together and learn more about Vietnamese culture.

“Being able to help create a space where others feel welcomed and at home has been one of the most meaningful parts of my experience.”

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

Vy also made an impact through her work with Gonzaga’s Office of Inclusive Excellence (OIE).

As a student employee, she collaborated with peers from diverse backgrounds and contributed to the Diversity Digest as an Editorial Board member the past two years, contributing to a more inclusive campus environment.

“My favorite part was getting to work with peers from different backgrounds and learning from their perspectives,” Vy explained. “It felt really meaningful to be part of something that highlights different voices and helps create a stronger sense of belonging for students.”

Her passion for inclusive spaces is deeply personal. As an international student herself, Vy understood the importance of having communities that celebrate diversity and support students from all backgrounds. “As an international student, having a space that celebrates diversity meant a lot to me,” she said. “I wanted to be part of that and help other students feel supported too.”

Academically, Vy has focused her studies on Economics, with a particular interest in data and decision-making. “I really enjoy working with data and understanding how it can help with decisions,” she shared. “I hope to use that in a career in finance and make a meaningful impact.”

As graduation approaches, Vy is preparing to begin an exciting new chapter. She looks forward to launching her career in finance and continuing to build her life in Spokane. “It feels a little scary being by yourself without family close by,” Vy said, “but mostly exciting.”

Photo courtesy of Gonzaga University 2026 Tế t event.

Vy’s journey at Gonzaga is a reflection of resilience, leadership, and the power of belonging. Her contributions to the Gonzaga community; through culture, service, and advocacy, will leave a lasting impact long after graduation. We wish Vy all the best in her next chapter!

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Reese Ramey

Finance, School of Business Administration We are pleased to spotlight graduating senior, Reese Ramey. Reese is a graduating senior and her area of study is in Finance at Gonzaga University. Her motivation in pursuing a career in this field is in her desire to “universalize basic financial information to those who lack access.” She hopes to take steps to fulfill this wish of hers when she will begin working as a project manager at Boeing.

Reese has been on this path of self-sufficiency and investment for a while now. She had been an avid member of Gonzaga’s very own investment club which was majority male at the time, but that did not dissuade her. It pushed her to partake in leadership and had served as the head of marketing as a first year student. In the years to follow she made it mission for her to learn the basics of investing on her own.

Her motivation to learn about investing is not just for her sake. She does this for her younger brother whom is disabled and others who share the same disadvantages. Her goal is to make sure the adults with autism are able to understand basic financial information because they are disadvantaged and many rely on others to control their finances which removes their autonomy.

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

Having worked for the Office of Inclusive Excellence, Reese encourages other to apply.

Students should apply because not only does it offer a sense of community, it is also informational on subjects such as consent and sexual violence on campus. OIE teaches the basics of consent, sexual violence, and how to spread the word so that other people can learn. She says that students have been able to speak up about their experiences and that is what makes the job rewarding. You know that you’re making a difference on campus.

During her time here at Gonzaga, Reese says that her memory that she will carry with her was when she watched the conjuring in a paranormal studies class.

INSERT PHOTO

“Everything doesn’t happen for a reason, you make it happen” -Reese

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

MEDIA RECOMMENDATIONS Inside Out

PG Inside Out 2 is about how growing up makes your inner world more complicated and that it is not a problem to fix, but something to understand. Riley becomes a teenager and her emotions stop being simple or predictable. New feelings like Anxiety, Embarrassment, Envy, and Ennui show up and start influencing her decisions to overthink, compare herself to others, and worries about the future.

The movie shows that this can create tension inside of us, especially when we are trying to figure out who we are and where we belong.

A Beautiful Mine PG-13 Book I Am Malala This movie is a biographical drama about John FOrbes Nash Jr., a mathematician whose life is shaped by both intelligence and a struggle with mental illness. The movie follows Nash in his early days at Princeton, where he develops groundbraking ideas in the mathematic work during the Cold War. As his career rises, he slowly begins to experience delusions and hallucinations tied to schizophrenia, though he does not realize it at first. It is an emotional story and an intellectual one, showing that even someone dealing with severe one can make a lasting contribution to the world.

Wake Up Stroke 120

PG-13 Wake Up Stroke 120 is a sort film from China that docuses on helping people recongize the signs of a stroke and how to act quickly. The film telss a sumple but urgent story about someone waking up with stroke symptions, but they and those around them do not immedialtey realize what is happening. This delay in action puts their life and brain at risk. The file is buil around “Stroke 120”, a message to act quickly: 1 - look for an uneven face, 2 - check for arm weakness, 0 - listen for slurred speech.

Reconginig these symptoms can save a life and bring public awarness.

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING? ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

Campus Events GU Student Pottery Sale About: The Gonzaga University Student Ceramic Sale features handmade works created by GU students in the ceramics program.

The sale invites the campus and local community to support student artists while purchasing unique, one-of-a-kind pottery.

When: Friday, May 01, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM Where: Hemmingson Tabling

The Gonzaga University Student Film Festival About: The Gonzaga University Student Film Festival is an annual, juried showcase of film and video projects. The one-night event features a screening of the best short narrative films, documentaries, animations, and video-art projects produced by GU students over the course of the academic year. Launched in 2018, the Gonzaga University Student Film Festival is a collaboration between the departments of Art and Integrated Media.

When: Friday, May 01, 2026 | 07:00 PM - 08:30 PM Where: Jundt Auditorium

Spring Choral Celebration About: Join the Gonzaga Choral Program for their last concert of the season, celebrating the year, honoring our seniors and reflecting on the many journeys we traveled together. Featuring MuseaTreble Chorus, Concert Choir, Glee Club and Big Bing Theory, each choir will sing a variety of music from traditional to modern choral songs.

It will be a fun, uplifting afternoon of great music, join us!

When: Sunday, May 03, 2026 | 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM Where: Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING? ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

Campus Events Retirement Social for Dr. Mike Carey About: Join us as we celebrate our beloved Dr. Mike Carey, as he retires from Gonzaga University. For four decades, Dr. Carey has taught generations of students and been a remarkable pillar in the School of Leadership Studies programs. Join us in Manresa Hall to celebrate him on May 8th.

4 PM: light refreshments and a photo booth with Dr. Carey 5 PM: remarks and a congratulatory toast Where: Manresa Hall When: Friday, May 08, 2026 | 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM

2026 Law Commencement About: Graduating students should check the Commencement page and order attire by March 20, 2026; on the day, arrive at the Law School by 8:00 a.m. for the class photo and scan into McCarthey Athletic Center, with the ceremony starting at 9:00 a.m., degrees conferred at 9:45 a.m., and ending around 10:30 a.m., followed by a champagne reception on the Law School lawn where family and friends are welcome; guest tickets are required but free and unlimited for graduates, and the event will also be livestreamed.

Where: McCarthy Athletic Center When: Saturday, May 09, 2026 | 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM

2026 Graduate Commencement About: Graduating students should check the Commencement page and order attire by March 20, 2026; on the day, graduates arrive at 11:15 a.m. for lineup in the Martin Center Gym, with guest seating opening at 11:00 a.m., the ceremony starting at 12:00 p.m., degrees conferred at 1:00 p.m., and ending around 2:00 p.m.; guest tickets are required but unlimited and free for Graduate School participants, and the ceremony will also be livestreamed.

Where: McCarthy Athletic Center When: Saturday, May 09, 2026 | 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING? ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

Campus Events 2026 Undergraduate Commencement About: Graduating students should check the Commencement page and order attire by March 20, 2026; on the day, arrive at the Arena South doors by 9:00 a.m. (guest seating opens at 8:30 a.m.), with the ceremony starting at 9:30 a.m., degrees conferred at 10:30 a.m., and ending around 12:30 p.m.; tickets are required with a limit of six free tickets per undergraduate, and the ceremony will also be livestreamed.

Where: Spokane Arena When: Subday, May 10, 2026 | 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Northwest Passages Presents Remarkably Bright Creatures Author, Shelby Van Pelt About: Author Shelby Van Pelt joins Northwest Passages Book Club to discuss her bestseller, Remarkably Bright Creatures, and the novel's film adaptation premiering this spring on Netflix. Van Pelt will be in conversation May 12 with Spokesman-Review Managing Editor, Lindsey Treffry.

Where: Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, Fr. Bernard J. Coughlin, S.J. Theater When: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 07:00 PM

Zags Night at Seattle Mariners About: Reconnect with fellow Zags at the ballpark as the Seattle Mariners take on the Arizona Diamondbacks, featuring a special appearance by Thayne McCulloh Passerini. Your ticket includes an exclusive co-branded Mariners–Gonzaga jersey, access to a pregame social with half-priced drinks, and a game seat, with $5 from each purchase supporting student scholarships; gates open at 5:40 p.m., first pitch is at 7:10 p.m., and the purchase deadline is May 29 at 5 p.m.

Where: T-Mobile Park, 1250 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134 When: Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 05:00 PM - 10:00 PM

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING? ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

Spokane Events Bistango Lounge First Friday About: A fun First Friday event with live music by Max Malone, plus drinks and a relaxed lounge vibe. It’s a great spot to hang out, enjoy music, and have cocktails with friends.

When: Friday, May 01, 2026 | 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM Where: Bistango Martini Lounge

Drop In Paint And DIY About: A fun painting class where you follow step-by-step instructions to create your own artwork. You can relax, be creative, and enjoy the experience, even if you’ve never painted before.

When: Friday, May 01, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Where: Pinot's Palette

Carole King and James Taylor Story About: A live tribute show celebrating the music of Carole King and James Taylor.You’ll hear famous songs like “Fire and Rain” and “You’ve Got a Friend,” performed live by talented artists. It’s a fun, nostalgic music experience.

When: Friday, May 01, 2026 | 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Where: Bing Crosby Theater

NIGHT MARKET & Street Fair About: A lively night market with 50+ local vendors, live music, food trucks, and art. It’s like a mix of a street fair + music festival + creative market. A great place for shopping, eating, and hanging out with friends.

When: Friday, May 08, 2026 | 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Where: 508 E Riverside Ave

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING? ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

Spokane Events 41st Annual ArtFest About: A big outdoor art festival with local artists, live music, food trucks, and fun activities. You can walk around, shop handmade art, enjoy music, and just hang out with friends, it’s a lively weekend event.

When: Friday, May 29, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Where: Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

Back To The Future - The Musical About: A live Broadway musical based on Back to the Future. It follows Marty McFly traveling back in time with Doc Brown and trying to fix the future. Expect fun music, cool effects, and a nostalgic story.

When: Friday, May 01, 2026 | 2:00 PM Where: First Interstate Center for the Arts

The Hunchback Of Notre Dame About: A live musical based on the classic story of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. It’s a powerful show about love, acceptance, and being different, with dramatic music and storytelling When: Friday, May 22, 2026 | 07:30 PM Where: Spokane Civic Theater

DIVERSITY DIGEST

May 2026

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Email us at inclusiveexcellence@gonzaga.edu EDITORIAL BOARD Ashlinn Aguayo Ik Idumwonyi Robin Kelley, Pd.D. Araceli Lopez Vy Nguyen Kristina Poffenroth Idalia Bucio Rodriguez