A Vision of Hope: President Thomas Poon's Inauguration at LMU

On December 9, 2025, Loyola Marymount University (LMU) welcomed its new president, Dr. Thomas Poon, in an inauguration ceremony centered around the theme "Hope, Made Here." As the university's 17th president, Poon stood before an audience of nearly 1,200 dignitaries, community members, and delegates, sharing his ambitious vision not just for LMU, but for the environment of higher education as a whole.

In his inaugural address, Poon underscored the proactive nature of hope, quoting Jesuit philosophy that emphasizes action over passivity. He stated, "Hope rolls up its sleeves and asks, 'What's the work we need to do to make things happen?'" This philosophy sets the tone for his administration, which seeks to adapt LMU to the modern challenges facing higher education today.

The ceremony, rich with tradition, celebrated not only LMU's legacy but also its commitment to serving as a catalyst for innovation and community engagement. Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez presided over the morning Missioning Mass, which added a spiritual dimension to the event, highlighting the university's roots in Catholic, Jesuit, and Marymount traditions.

Poon articulated three hopes for the future of LMU, beginning with expanding access to quality education for all students. He emphasized that nearly 90% of LMU students benefit from financial aid. For the last academic year, LMU awarded over $183.3 million in grants and scholarships, making higher education more attainable for those in need. Poon’s commitment to accessibility resonates with recent partnerships with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, which aims to pave the way for local high school students.

Following this, Poon expressed a desire for stronger connections between LMU's campuses and the surrounding communities. With three campuses throughout Los Angeles and a substantial economic impact of over $1.4 billion, LMU actively engages in partnerships aimed at addressing local needs, supporting various initiatives ranging from education to job creation.

One notable new partnership, announced during the ceremony, was with Homeboy Industries. Founded by LMU alumnus Reverend Greg Boyle, this organization provides support and resources for at-risk youth. The partnership will create new opportunities in business management and social services, offering pathways for those traditionally excluded from higher education.

Additionally, Poon announced that LMU will serve as a high-performance center for Team USA during the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This acknowledgment positions LMU as a key player in Los Angeles's sporting landscape, showcasing its strong commitment to contribute to community engagement through sports.

Lastly, Poon shared his hope for cultivating leaders grounded in Ignatian principles. Reflecting on the life of St. Ignatius Loyola, he remarked on the importance of merging intellect with reflection and hope with action when developing future leaders. The inauguration marked the beginning of Poon's leadership in reshaping LMU while honoring its deep traditions.

The event also welcomed various esteemed guests, including former Democratic congressman and disability rights advocate Tony Coelho, who delivered his congratulations to Poon. This gathering of educational leaders demonstrates a collective commitment to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education.

Poon's journey to the presidency was thoroughly meritorious; previously serving as LMU's executive vice president and provost, he contributed significantly to the university’s academic growth and diversity initiatives. With a solid academic background that includes a B.S. in chemistry and a Ph.D. from UCLA, he has been instrumental in advancing LMU’s mission and expanding program offerings.

In closing his address, President Poon extended an invitation for collective action, stating, "This next chapter will be written by all of us. Each of you holds the pen. Together, we will write the next chapter of Loyola Marymount University—one filled with purpose, possibility, and hope, made here." Through this inspiring vision, Dr. Thomas Poon sets a hopeful course for the future of Loyola Marymount University, forging paths to accessibility, community, and leadership for generations to come.