Welcome to the start of a new academic year at University of the Pacific! Whether you’re a returning student, 教师, 工作人员, or a new member of our community, I want to take this moment to remind you: 你属于这里.  

2020年1月, 斯托克顿, 我们的家, was named the most racially and ethnically diverse large city in the United States by U.S. 新闻 & 世界报道. 9月29日, Pacific celebrates 100 years of higher education at a campus considered one of the most stunningly beautiful in the nation. As someone who was born, raised and educated right here in 斯托克顿, I can attest to the richness of this 多样性 and the greatness of our university and city.

在太平洋, 多样性, equity and inclusion (一些) isn't just a set of principles—it’s how we show love and belonging within our community. Just as I experienced growing up in a multicultural, multi-lingual and multi-religious neighborhood, you too will find that our 斯托克顿, Sacramento and San Francisco campuses are places where different backgrounds, ideas and experiences come together to create a truly vibrant learning environment.

Our shared journey this year is guided by our 常见的阅读, "I Never Thought of It That Way," by Mónica Guzmán. This book encourages us to have fearlessly curious conversations, even when faced with deep divisions. It’s a reminder that curiosity, care and engagement are key to fostering understanding and connection.   

As we navigate this academic year, particularly with the upcoming presidential election, 我鼓励你:  

• 很好奇: Ask questions, explore new perspectives and be open to learning from those around you.
• 显示护理: Practice kindness, check in on each other and be compassionate in your interactions.
• 保持忙碌: Participate actively in your classes, join student organizations and be a part of the events that bring us together as a community.  

Your time at Pacific is an incredible opportunity to grow intellectually, develop critical thinking skills and prepare yourself to lead in an increasingly complex and diverse world. 还记得, you are not just learning for today—you are training to be the leaders and scholars the world needs. And as you navigate your academic journey, remember that student support services are available to assist you every step of the way.  

作为正规博彩十大网站的校友, I’ve been in your shoes, and I can say with confidence: You can go anywhere from Pacific. You can do anything you imagine. You can find your path and leave your mark. This is your time, and Pacific is where you belong.  

Let’s make this a year of growth, connection and fearless curiosity.  

去老虎!  

玛丽珍. Lomax-Ghirarduzzi
Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Professor of Communication