Introducing President Poon

Brief Introductory Script for Internal Events

I am pleased to introduce President Thomas Poon. Under his leadership, and together with First Spouse, Cathy Irwin, and their daughter, Sophie, LMU moves toward a future rich in innovation, purpose, and global impact–grounded in a posture of service, academic rigor, and unwavering fidelity to our Jesuit Marymount mission. Please join me in welcoming President and Professor Thomas Poon.

Abridged Introductory Script for Internal or External Events

I am pleased to introduce President Thomas Poon.  Under his leadership, and together with First Spouse, Cathy Irwin, and their daughter, Sophie, LMU moves toward a future rich in innovation, purpose, and global impact.

Since joining LMU as Executive Vice President and Provost in 2017, he has led transformative advancements in academics and research—launching 21 new academic programs, increasing research support by over 80%, and securing LMU’s Carnegie R2 classification. A graduate of Fairfield University with a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from UCLA, President Poon previously served in senior leadership roles at Pitzer College, including as Interim President. He has championed LMU’s designations as a Hispanic-Serving and AANAPISI institution, expanded global partnerships and study abroad programs, and advanced student-centered and mission-driven initiatives that reflect LMU’s Jesuit and Marymount values. 

Please join me in welcoming President and Professor Thomas Poon.

Full Introductory Script for External Events

I am pleased to present Thomas Poon, president of Loyola Marymount University. A transformative educator and visionary leader, President Poon has devoted his career to advancing academic excellence, inclusive innovation, and the mission of Catholic higher education in the Jesuit and Marymount traditions.

Since joining LMU in 2017 as Executive Vice President and Provost, President Poon has been instrumental in propelling the university to new heights in scholarly distinction and research innovation, significantly enhancing its national and global stature. His leadership ushered in the introduction of 21 new academic programs in fields such as business analytics and computer science, alongside a more than 80% increase in support for research and creative endeavors. During his tenure, LMU achieved and maintained a Carnegie R2 classification, positioning the university as a premier research institution, and earned federal recognition as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI).

President Poon’s deep commitment to inclusivity and global engagement is evident in his efforts to diversify LMU’s tenure-line faculty and expand the university’s global reach. Under his leadership, LMU significantly increased study abroad participation and forged a range of strategic international partnerships, aligning with the university’s mission to educate ethical global citizens.  

A champion of student-centered initiatives, President Poon has advanced programs that elevate student well-being, belonging, and success. These include the launch of the Summer Internship Fund, the establishment of dedicated student success centers, and the development of innovative learning environments such as LMU’s Playa Vista Campus. His vision also extends to impactful regional and community collaborations, particularly LMU’s ongoing partnership with the Los Angeles Rams, alongside other key cultural and educational alliances.

Please join me in welcoming the 17th president of Loyola Marymount University: President and Professor Thomas Poon.