LMU's 17th President

We are thrilled to announce that Loyola Marymount University Board of Trustees unanimously elected Thomas Poon, Ph.D., as the university’s 17th president, effective June 1, 2025.

President-elect Poon’s extraordinary leadership, deep commitment to LMU’s Catholic mission in the Jesuit and Marymount traditions, and bold, inclusive vision make him the ideal person to lead LMU at this pivotal moment in the institution’s history.

Watch LMU Trustee Chair Paul Viviano’s Announcement

LMU Seal Introducing LMU's 17th President

LMU Trustee Chair, Paul Viviano, Announces the 17th President of LMU

“As we face a future that demands both reverence for our values and the courage to engage with a changing world, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. It is here that we introduce a leader equipped for such a time: Dr. Thomas Poon.”

Read the Press Release

Together, we will tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving world, propelling LMU to new heights of academic excellence and innovation. As we embark on this new journey, let us draw on our diverse strengths to enhance our collective impact and honor the legacy of those who have set our path. I am privileged to lead LMU with courage and hope, guiding us toward a promising and transformative future.

- Thomas Poon, Ph.D., 17th President of LMU

Meet the President-Elect and First Spouse

Thomas Poon, Ph.D., the 17th President of LMU and family.

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.

Discover five fun facts about Thomas Poon.

Learn more about the President

A dedicated scholar and educator, Catherine Irwin, Ph.D. brings a wealth of academic experience and interdisciplinary expertise to her teaching and research, including leadership as advisor and coordinator of the University of La Verne’s Gender and Sexuality Studies minor.

Discover five fun facts about Catherine Irwin.

Learn more about Catherine Irwin

Presidential Search Committee

Loyola Marymount University (LMU) sought a transformative and visionary leader to advance its Catholic, Jesuit, and Marymount mission, distinguished by commitments to academic excellence, social justice, and holistic education. As a premier national university grounded in a values-based educational experience, LMU is seeking a president who embodies the care of the whole person (cura personalis) and the pursuit of excellence (magis)—values that guide the university in cultivating ethical leaders to serve and shape the world.

Meet the Committee

Save the Date for the 17th President's Inauguration

Join regional and religious leaders, delegates from universities globally, and the campus community for the momentous inauguration of Thomas Poon, Ph.D.:

December 9, 2025
Sacred Heart Chapel

Welcome LMU's 17th President

Share your congratulations and well wishes for the 17th President of LMU, Thomas Poon, Ph.D.

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