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SLU-Madrid Welcomes New Rector William P. Johnson

by Isaiah Voss on 07/01/2025

07/01/2025

Saint Louis University-Madrid formally introduced its new rector, William P. Johnson, J.D., during a presentation at 8 p.m., Tuesday, June 17 in Padre Arrupe Hall.

Johnson, who took on the role earlier this academic year, addressed the University community and invited guests by sharing his vision for the importance of SLU-Madrid's Jesuit identity and mission in facing injustice and today's global challenges. He also reflected on SLU-Madrid's nearly 60 years of academic presence in the Spanish capital.

"I fear that young people, many people for that matter, don't feel hopeful today, but we cannot lose our sense of hope. We should feel a strong sense of urgency in responding to the apostolic preference that calls us to accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future. By our words and our actions, we must make ourselves sources of hope, in a world that desperately needs it," said Johnson. "At SLU–Madrid, we have a distinctive opportunity to lean into the struggle by how we teach, how we engage the community where we are located, how we pursue research, and how we collaborate. I see the commitment of my students and the work of my colleagues, and I am filled with a sense of hope that tomorrow will be a better day because of the work we do today."

Man at podium talking to the audience, with a blue background.

A moment from the official welcome ceremony for Rector William P. Johnson. Photo by Ángel García.

The event was attended by Enric Puiggròs, S.J., provincial of the Society of Jesus in Spain. Also in attendance were Ana García-Mina, delegate and president of UNIJES, the network of Jesuit universities and higher education institutions in Spain, and several prominent members of the Jesuit higher education community in Madrid, including Antonio Allende, S.J., rector of Universidad Pontificia Comillas, and Juan de la Guarda, CEO of Advantere School of Management. SLU-Madrid's strategic institutional partners and vendors were also represented, including Sodexo Ibérica, Yugo Residencias, Howden Ibérica, Squire Patton Boggs and Casagrande Arquitectos.

The presentation concluded with a cocktail reception for guests to connect and welcome Johnson to his new role.

Johnson, an accomplished academic and legal scholar, brings a strong commitment to Jesuit values and international education. As rector, he will lead Saint Louis University's mission to form global citizens through rigorous academics, service and community engagement.