President Emeritus John J. DeGioia
48th President of Georgetown University
John J. DeGioia’s (C’79, PHD’95) nearly 50-year tenure at Georgetown—23 of which he served as president—transformed the University community and helped shape the national higher education landscape. He is the longest-serving president in Georgetown’s history and the first lay leader of a Jesuit college or university in the United States.
Serving as the president of Georgetown has been the privilege of my lifetime. …
John J. DeGioia
I remain deeply proud of the work we have done together to strengthen the Georgetown community, our nation and our world.
Celebrating President DeGioia’s Key Initiatives
President DeGioia’s tenure strengthened Georgetown’s partnerships across and investment in Washington, D.C., extended its global reach, advanced its tradition of academic excellence, and deepened its commitment to our Catholic and Jesuit heritage. A broad range of initiatives, guided by these four pillars, shaped his presidency and reimagined Georgetown’s place in our city, our nation, and our world.
A Legacy of ProgressMarking a Leadership Transition
Recent news articles and letters commemorating President Emeritus DeGioia.
Marking the Close of a Distinguished Tenure
President DeGioia To Become President Emeritus of Georgetown
John J. DeGioia is the longest serving president in Georgetown University’s history. Over his tenure, DeGioia expanded the impact and footprint of the university while strengthening its Catholic and Jesuit identity and deepening its commitment to academic excellence. After more than 23 years as University President, John J. DeGioia will become President Emeritus and continue as a member of the faculty.
November 21, 2024
A Letter from John J. DeGioia, President of Georgetown University
November 21, 2024
Connecting with the Georgetown Community
John J. DeGioia, in a ceremonial moment at his Presidential Inauguration in 2001.
John J. DeGioia addresses new students of the Leadership and Beyond program in Riggs Library.
John J. DeGioia and Coach John Thompson at the dedication of the John R. Thompson, Jr. Athletic Center in 2014.
In 2022, DeGioia visited a booth for Campus Ministry at the university’s annual student organization fair, also known as CAB Fair.
John J. DeGioia addresses incoming students at New Student Orientation.
John J. DeGioia during Baccalaureate Mass.
John J. DeGioia and his wife, Theresa DeGioia, with Pope Francis.
Celebrating members of our faculty at the 2011 Faculty Convocation.
Addressing alumni at Reunion.
John J. DeGioia at an ESCAPE retreat at the Calcagnini Contemplative Center.
Thank you, President Emeritus DeGioia!
Thank you, President DeGioia for your tremendous commitment to Georgetown’s mission. In particular, I’d like to thank you for teaching a First-Year Seminar each fall for as long as I can remember. The impact your teaching has made on the academic orientation of our newest students can’t be put into words.
Erin Force (S’31), Associate Dean of Psychology and Disability Studies, College of Arts & Sciences
We are grateful for President DeGioia’s transformational impact and 23 years of service to Georgetown. Under his visionary leadership, we opened a new chapter in our history, bringing together McCourt School students, faculty, staff and researchers under the same roof for the first time since our founding.
McCourt School of Public Policy
“Be like Jack. Make the world a better place.” – Dr. Louis Weiner
As we reflect on President DeGioia’s remarkable 23-year tenure, we’re reminded of his unparalleled leadership, integrity, and vision. Thank you, Jack. Read Lou’s message.
Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center
President DeGioia’s leadership has profoundly shaped not just Georgetown but also higher education. His vision and dedication have been transformative. Fortunate to have had this incredible human being as my leader, mentor, and friend.
Reena Aggarwal, Ph.D., Robert E. McDonough Professor of Finance and Director, Georgetown Psaros Center for Financial Markets and Policy
With deep gratitude, we honor President DeGioia’s remarkable leadership. His vision brought the School of Nursing to life in 2022, building on Georgetown’s 120-year legacy of educating nurses. Thank you, Jack, for making Georgetown a better place.
Roberta Waite, Ed.D., PMHCNS, RN, ANEF, FADLN, FAAN, Dean, Berkley School of Nursing
Jack has been a source of energy, inspiration, and aspiration for us all and will continue to be present in our community every day…The term Hoya Saxa translates to “what rocks!” Jack DeGioia is the rock on which we have built a world class university and community.
Ted Leonsis (C’77, P’14, P’15), Chief Executive Officer, Monumental Sports & Entertainment
Thank you President DeGioia for your incredible leadership of our great Georgetown!
Norah O’Donnell (C’95, S’03, HON’24, P’29, P’29), Senior Correspondent, CBS News
Jack DeGioia has made Georgetown a wonderful place for faculty, students, staff and the wider community. He is the definition of leadership: kind, visionary, capable, and inspiring. Thank you Jack.
Victor Cha, Ph.D., Distinguished University Professor
From student-athlete to University President, you have been our biggest supporter in every role. 💙
Georgetown Hoyas