One president is leaving; one is entering. They share a vision for Pacific University.
News, Media and Stories | President
For the past 13 years, Dr. Lesley Hallick has led Pacific through a period of unparalleled growth and strength, culminating in navigating the university through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pacific University alumna, parent, former professor and dean will become the 18th president.
“Our thanks and gratitude to President Hallick for her incredible vision, steady fiscal savvy and continual support for student success,” said Board of Trustees Chair Gerald Yoshida ’73. “We are especially grateful that Lesley delayed her planned retirement by over a year in order to successfully see Pacific through the COVID crisis. Her dedication and leadership have well positioned Pacific and our students for the future and the university has never been stronger.”
We are keenly aware that members of LGBTQIA communities continue to face many barriers and injustices in our society. During this month, we acknowledge the turbulent history of the LGBTQIA+ civil rights movement, while also celebrating the courage, strength and resilience of those communities in the midst of adversity and in the pursuit of equality. Throughout Pride Month, and all year, Pacific University stands in support of LGBTQIA+ communities and is committed to continuing to foster a more inclusive culture of equity on our campuses and in our world.
Pacific University is a community dedicated to anti-racism and justice, and we firmly condemn hate and violence of all forms. This includes the recent acts of violence against the Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.
Pacific will offer hybrid approaches to recognizing spring graduates, including small photo shoot opportunities and a virtual ceremony.
I invite you to join me Monday, Jan. 18, at 1 p.m. for a virtual commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, hosted by the Office of Student Affairs and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, in partnership with the Undergraduate Student Senate and the Human Rights Council of Washington County.
Ann Barr-Gillespie will become provost and vice president for academic affairs, following the retirement of John Miller in June. Sarah Phillips, while retaining her role as dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, will become vice president for enrollment management, in the position currently vacant following this summer’s retirement of Mark Ankeny. Both positions become effective July 1. Karla Staihar joined the Cabinet as chief of staff as of Jan. 1.
Pacific University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs John Miller has announced his plans to retire at the end of this academic year. “The growth in Pacific’s programs during these past 13 years have been nothing short of transformational,” said President Lesley Hallick. “Please join me in thanking John for his tremendous contributions to Pacific University and its students.”