Pacific Union College

Dr. Ralph Trecartin Begins Role as PUC’s New President

July 1 was an exciting day on the campus of Pacific Union College as Dr. Ralph Trecartin began his first day as the college’s new president. PUC welcomed Trecartin as the 24th president in its 138-year history.

“We are extremely happy to welcome Dr. Trecartin to PUC,” said Milbert Mariano, PUC’s vice president for academic administration and academic dean. “His experience and leadership are tremendous assets for us as we continue to shape PUC’s future, and we welcome his insight and perspective.”

Trecartin brings with him more than 30 years of valuable higher education experience. Before joining PUC, Trecartin served most recently as the associate provost and dean of the College of Professions for Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan.

One of the highest priorities for Trecartin as he begins his role is continuing the work on PUC’s Vision for the Future, which lays out a comprehensive outline for the school’s next several years. In his first message to campus, Trecartin shared that he hopes every member of the PUC campus family will feel a sense of ownership when it comes to the Vision.

“The broad structure is already in place and the initial steps have been articulated, but now let’s find ways to expand PUC’s reach and influence,” Trecartin stated. “We will move forward with decisive action. Not every detail has been anticipated and, as with any vision, this needs to be a shared vision and a living document that can be adjusted as we continue to meet both obstacles and opportunities.”

Dr. Trecartin’s commitment to Seventh-day Adventist education has a clear connection to his family. He follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, Lowell Rasmussen, who served as the Pacific Union Conference’s education director before moving on to the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. His parents and siblings have also dedicated their lives to church service. “Building a vibrant Adventist educational offering is what captures my imagination,” said Dr. Trecartin. “Education is one of the most powerful ways to model joyous life and to influence aspiring young people to reach for the highest levels of achievement while growing closer to God.”

Dr. Trecartin believes in a strong student-focused learning environment. “Our campus needs to be a place where students love to be and feel like they belong,” he said. “I want the PUC experience to include opportunities not available anywhere else.”

____________________ By Ashley Eisele