Lesley Hallick, PhD
Lesley M. Hallick began serving as president of Pacific University on Aug. 1, 2009, following a distinguished 32-year career at Oregon Health & Science University. With 20 years experience as chief academic officer, Hallick quickly became known for her leadership in the areas of equality, environmental stewardship and sustainability, innovative thinking and philanthropy.
She has nurtured the development at Pacific University of centers specializing in peace and spirituality and in sustainability. Hallick has overseen the growth of programs in the liberal arts and sciences, in education, and in health professions, as well as the establishment of Pacific’s College of Business. She also is guiding the development of a university strategic plan that will support continued growth in student enrollment.
Raised in California’s Santa Ana Valley, Hallick attended Orange High School, where she graduated valedictorian. She earned her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Pomona College in Claremont, Calif., graduating magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. She studied at the University of Wisconsin Madison, where she received her doctoral degree in molecular biology. A Woodrow Wilson Fellow, Hallick has conducted an extensive research program in molecular virology and has authored numerous publications in tumor virology and viral genome structure.
Hallick has a long history of commendation for her work as a teacher and researcher, and she has a unique breadth of experience working with diverse groups in the academic, scientific and professional worlds. In addition to her leadership at Pacific University, she also serves on boards for the Oregon Historical Society, United Way and Vision Action Network.
Hallick also manages a 20-acre farm in Scappoose, Ore., with close friend Candace Carr, raising beef cattle and caring for a variety of other animals and welcoming visits from both of their extended families. Hallick’s daughter, Deborah, a computer engineer, lives in Eugene, Ore., with her children, Charlie and Samantha.