Thomas Poon, Ph.D.
LMU's 17th President
Hope, Made Here
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
The Inauguration of Thomas Poon, Ph.D., marks a historic chapter in LMU's story, formally installing its 17th president. Inspired by our Catholic mission in the Jesuit and Marymount traditions, the inauguration theme, "Hope, Made Here," reflects the values we bring to life through community, academic excellence, and service. This ceremony honors LMU’s enduring ties to Los Angeles and the world beyond the Bluff, affirming our commitment to opening doors of opportunity, empowering human potential, and leading with purpose. In this moment of transition and tradition, we celebrate a university of consequence, and we look with hope, vision, and unwavering faith in the future we are called to shape together.
Can't be on campus? The ceremony will be livestreamed to this page.
Check back soon for additional events featuring student and faculty programming. The inauguration calendar will continue to evolve as new celebrations are announced.
Upcoming Presidential Inauguration Events
Monday, December 1
Inauguration Academic Symposium: AI: Discernment, Made Here
5:30 p.m.
Life Sciences Building
Friday, December 5
ASLMU Tree Lighting
5 p.m.
Regents Terrace
Tuesday, December 9
Missioning Mass
10:15 a.m.
Sacred Heart Chapel
Tuesday, December 9
Community Lunch
12 p.m.
Alumni Mall
Tuesday, December 9
Installation Ceremony
2 p.m.
Albert Gersten Pavilion
Happening On Campus
Monday, December 1 - Friday, December 12
Avenues of Awareness
Thomas P. Kelly Student Art Gallery
Contact Stuart Moskovitz for information about the exhibit.
Tuesday, December 2
Faculty Pub Night: Nicole Woods on “Performing Chance: The Art of Alison Knowles In/Out of Fluxus”
5:30 p.m.
Hannon Library, Von der Ahe Suite
Wednesday, December 3 - Saturday, December 6
Seeing Chicanx: The Durón Family Collection
11 a.m.
Laband Art Gallery
Send us your congratulations videos to President Poon!
Record a 15- to 30-second horizontal video congratulating President Poon and sharing one way you see hope made here at LMU. Include your name, LMU affiliation, and text your video to 310.946.2317 by Friday, Nov. 7. Watch this short how-to video for details.
Visit LMU
Meet the President and First Spouse
A transformative educator and visionary leader, Thomas Poon, Ph.D., the 17th President of LMU, has devoted his career to advancing academic excellence, inclusive innovation, and the mission of Catholic higher education in the Jesuit and Marymount traditions.
Learn more aboutthe President
T. Catherine Irwin, Ph.D., serves as Special Advisor and University Ambassador at LMU, bringing extensive experience as a scholar, educator, and academic leader.
Learn more aboutT. Catherine Irwin