A historic week will mark the inauguration of Dr. Christina M. Schnyders, celebrate McGuire Auditorium’s 50th anniversary, and honor Warner Pacific’s legacy through Founder’s Day and Give Week.
Warner Pacific University will celebrate a new chapter in its history during Presidential Inauguration Week, October 5–9, culminating in the formal inauguration of Dr. Christina M. Schnyders as the University’s ninth president on Friday, October 9.
Under the theme “Rooted in Promise. Rising with Purpose,” the week will bring together students, faculty, staff, alumni, church leaders, and community partners to celebrate Warner Pacific’s history, Christ-centered mission, and future.
The celebrations carry additional significance as the University commemorates the 50th anniversary of McGuire Auditorium, recognizes its founding through Founder’s Day, and invites the community to participate in Give Week.
Honoring Our Legacy. Investing in Our Future.
Inauguration Week begins Monday, October 5, with Founder’s Day, an opportunity to reflect on Warner Pacific’s history and the generations of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters who have shaped the University.
The celebrations also coincide with Give Week, bringing the Warner Pacific community together in support of the University’s mission and the students whose lives are transformed through education.
Throughout the week, the University will host gatherings reflecting its commitment to faith, academic excellence, student engagement, and community.
On Tuesday, October 6, church and community leaders will gather for the Pastor’s Prayer Breakfast, followed by Chapel and a student celebration. On Thursday, October 8, a Faculty Symposium will highlight the University’s academic community and its commitment to teaching, scholarship, and student success.
Together, these events offer opportunities to honor Warner Pacific’s legacy, celebrate its community, and look toward the future.
McGuire Auditorium: Celebrating 50 Years
As Warner Pacific prepares to inaugurate its ninth president, the University will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of McGuire Auditorium, a beloved gathering place at the heart of campus life.
Dedicated in 1976 through the generosity of the Williamson family and many others, McGuire Auditorium has brought generations together in worship, celebration, learning, and community.
From convocations and commencements to musical performances, inspirational speakers, fellowship, and prayer, its walls hold five decades of moments that have shaped the Warner Pacific story.
The University will recognize this milestone during the presidential inauguration, honoring the memories made within McGuire’s walls and the generations still to come.
The anniversary provides a meaningful connection between the University’s history and this new chapter in presidential leadership.
A New Chapter in Presidential Leadership
The week’s celebrations will culminate on Friday, October 9, with the formal inauguration of Dr. Christina M. Schnyders as the ninth president of Warner Pacific University.
Dr. Schnyders assumed office on August 1, 2026, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in Christian higher education. She previously served as provost and tenured professor at Malone University. A licensed professional clinical counselor, she earned her Ph.D. from Kent State University.
Her inauguration marks an important moment as Warner Pacific continues its commitment to Christ-centered academic excellence, holistic student development, and preparing graduates to serve their communities with purpose.
The investiture ceremony will take place at 3 pm on Friday, October 9, in McGuire Auditorium, followed by a community reception on A.F. Gray Lawn.
As Warner Pacific celebrates its history and welcomes a new chapter in presidential leadership, Inauguration Week offers an opportunity for the University community to come together in gratitude for the generations who have shaped its story and in anticipation of the possibilities ahead.
Join Us for Presidential Inauguration Week
Explore the complete schedule of events, learn more about the celebrations, and RSVP for the presidential inauguration.