A President For The Common Good

Eric F. Spina became the University of Dayton's 19th president on July 1, 2016. Under his leadership the University has eclipsed records, attracting the most diverse and academically gifted undergraduate classes in UD's history and recording new highs in sponsored research. Last year, the University conducted more than $278 million in sponsored research and was No. 1 in the nation for federally sponsored materials research and development.


From the Heart: Recent Blog Posts
President
8.20.2026
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Hold the Door for Each Other link-arrow link-arrow

I have always loved the energy and optimism that accompanies the beginning of an academic year. From Kennedy Union Plaza to Stuart Hall up on the hill, the campus is alive with possibilities.
President
8.3.2026
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Cinderella may soon be casualty of college basketball's money war link-arrow link-arrow

How can we save Cinderella? Presidents Eric F. Spina, University of Dayton, and Roger J. Thompson, Saint Mary’s College of California, discuss how changes in college basketball could exclude the very teams that make the NCAA tournament so exciting in this opinion column, originally appearing July 22, 2026, in The Columbus Dispatch.
President
7.29.2026
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Leadership, the UD Way link-arrow link-arrow

At the University of Dayton, leaders aren’t expected to be born, nor do they suddenly develop mad leadership skills when they are promoted to a supervisory position or when they read the latest leadership book.

Presidential Statement on Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Dayton affirms that diversity, equity, and inclusion are inextricably linked with excellence.

Aerial view of St. Mary's Hall

Office Staff

Tom Weckesser
Assistant Vice President and Secretary of the University of Dayton Board of Trustees

Annette Mitchell
Executive Assistant to the President

Ginger Stuck
Coordinator of Board of Trustees Operations

Ted Bucaro
Executive Director of Government and Regional Relations

President's Emissaries

President's EmissariesThe President's Emissaries, some of our best and brightest students, represent the president at various events. The emissaries interact with groups, including administrators, alumni, donors, trustees, community leaders and dignitaries who visit campus. Duties include hosting dinners, assisting with meetings, and conducting campus tours for trustees and other dignitaries.


Contact Office of the President
St. Mary's Hall
300 College Park
Dayton, Ohio 45469 - 1624
937-229-4122

About Us

Founded by the Society of Mary in 1850, the University of Dayton is a top-tier Catholic research university.
Explore our Catholic, Marianist Identity

Honorary Degrees

Through the conferral of honorary doctoral degrees, the University recognizes individuals of extraordinary and distinguished achievement who exemplify the University's mission, aspirations and institutional values.
Explore Honorary Degrees