On July 1, 2019, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Maria Pallavicini stepped into the role of interim president for University of the Pacific. Her many contributions to continue Pacific’s success include:
- Leading through a pandemic
- Reinstating Pacific Family Day
- Transforming the library
- Establishing a School of Health Sciences
- Launching Benerd College
- Expanding Academic Advising and Integrating with Career Services
Leading through a pandemic
Pallavicini has helped steer the university community through a pandemic. Through her steady guidance, within weeks, Pacific transitioned to learning and working remotely. Planning is now underway for students, faculty and staff to return to campuses this fall.
Reinstating pacific family day
Pallavicini reinstated Pacific Family Day, an event that fosters unity and demonstrates appreciation for university employees. Staff and faculty—along with their families—enjoyed activities, food and quality time with each other.
building new stories—Library transformation
The transformation of the William Knox Holt Memorial Library and Learning Center helped bring to life Pallavicini’s vision for a modern hub of learning and innovation. It features a new John Muir experience, several makerspaces and a Reading Commons that adds an additional 100 spaces for students to study, learn and meditate.
establishing a School of Health Sciences
Pallavicini led the establishment of Pacific’s School of Health Sciences. Building on Pacific’s long-standing reputation for preparing health care professionals, the school will meet the demands of a growing industry.
New accelerated master's degree programs in clinical nutrition, nursing and social work and a doctor of occupational therapy joined existing programs in athletic training, audiology, physical therapy, physician assistant studies and speech-language pathology.
launching Benerd College
Pallavicini oversaw the merger that created Benerd College, which combined the best of the former Gladys L. Benerd School of Education and University College. With a focus on educational innovation, Benerd offers academic programs in a variety of formats to meet the diverse needs of today's students. Benerd also offers professional development and programs for lifelong learners.
expanding Academic Advising and integrating with Career Services
Pallavicini supported expanding academic advising for students and integrating it with existing career services, resulting in a new Academic Advising and Career Services Center. This center provides an empowering environment for students to explore their educational and career goals by offering them access to a network of support throughout their Pacific journey. Academic and career advisors complement the work of faculty to ensure students are prepared during their time at Pacific.
On July 1, 2020, Pallavicini passes the torch to incoming president Christopher Callahan and resumes her position as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs.
Thank you, Maria Pallavicini, for your leadership and support of Pacific’s faculty, staff and students.