The second edition gathers 17 participants from 10 Kircher institutions across eight countries.
From October 21–23, 2025, the Kircher Network hosted the second edition of Canisius Formation: Identity and Mission in Jesuit Higher Education at the historic Sanctuary of Loyola in Azpeitia (Bilbao).
This year’s program once again brought together faculty and staff from across the network to explore the core dimensions of Jesuit identity, spirituality, and mission in higher education. The 2025 edition included 17 participants from 10 Kircher member institutions across eight countries — Sweden, Belgium, Poland, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and Portugal. Among them, 8 were faculty members and 9 were administrative leaders. The group’s diversity — with 10 women and seven men — fostered a rich exchange of perspectives and experiences throughout the sessions.
We were delighted to welcome back Gonzalo Villagrán, SJ, and Pep María, SJ, who designed the program and, together with José de Castro, SJ, Philip Geister, SJ, and Susana Di Trolio, delivered the content of this year’s formation experience. We also extend our gratitude to Ángel Benítez, SJ, for his insightful presentation, which greatly enriched the participants’ experience; to Lidia Fioravanti for her excellent contribution to the organising committee and moderation; and to Isabella Fontana (Université de Namur) for joining Lidia in leading the engaging introductory icebreaker session.
Rooted in the spirit of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the Canisius Formation continues to strengthen our shared mission and foster collaboration among Jesuit universities in Europe and beyond.
As part of the follow-up phase, the group will meet again for two webinars on Ignatian Leadership:
- November 5, 2025 | 18:00–19:30 (CET) — Professors Ramón García and Esteban Mogas (ESADE Business School)
- November 12, 2025 | 16:00–17:30 (CET) — Fr. David McCallum, SJ (Discerning Leadership Program)
