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 a record $264 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
10.27.2025
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Welcome Home, Father Jim link-arrow link-arrow

What kind of life is worth living? For more than eight decades, Father Jim Heft, S.M., has wrestled with that question, even as he’s lived what I and many others would portray as a life chock-full of meaning.
President
10.14.2025
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A Vote of Confidence link-arrow link-arrow

They take no salary for their service. And the Marianist members have vowed to live in poverty. Yet these dedicated servant-leaders on the University of Dayton’s Board of Trustees committed an astonishing $91 million to the We Soar campaign.
President
10.6.2025
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Advising, the UD Way link-arrow link-arrow

As of fall 2025, every incoming undergraduate has been paired with a holistic advisor, a dedicated guide who walks with them from move-in day to graduation. This new initiative is about helping students find their calling and live it.

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
Executive Director

Annette Mitchell
Executive Assistant to the President

Lisa Rismiller
Secretary of the Board of Trustees

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