Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Honoring the Collective Stories and Experiences of the PUC Community
PUC celebrates and cherishes the broad nature of diversity. Over the last hundred years, PUC has graduated thousands of students from diverse walks of life. Those students have been blessed and have blessed others across the globe in professional and personal endeavors. PUC honors this global heritage by committing itself to providing an inclusive faith-based learning environment. This commitment to a community where all belong is grounded in the great commission that we all have a shared humanity and should be valued as individuals created in the image of God. It is a commitment that is partnered with action and prayerful listening of diverse voices and experiences with open hearts, minds, and understanding in order to enact intentional meaningful change. The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion was established to provide guidance on the College’s commitment to a faith-based learning environment as well as issues of diversity, equity, and access at all levels of the College’s systems, including personal and professional development.
Guided by Faith, Respect, and Support in a Time of Change
In light of recent election outcomes, we acknowledge the range of emotions within our community. Our institution remains steadfast in fostering a safe, inclusive environment for all students, faculty, and staff. We value diversity and are committed to supporting you in pursuing your goals.
As we reflect on our mission and values, let us remember the Christian principles of faith, respect, and mutual support. Our actions are guided by God's wisdom, love, and truth, exemplifying leadership rooted in service, compassion, and justice.
For anyone feeling impacted by the current climate, please know that confidential support is available for students and staff alike. We are here for you.
Mission
To serve as a collaboration-based resource that supports PUC’s commitment as a learning institution that embraces, celebrates, and thrives in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Vision
To reflect God’s character* in every interaction on and off campus as we seek relevant, collaborative strategies to create a Community of Belonging where:
- All voices are heard;
- Experiences of all PUC members are honored, including individuals who have been historically marginalized and traumatized as a result of race, gender, sexuality, sexual expression, religion, ability, disability, socioeconomic class, political affiliation, age, and mental health;
- Healing is prioritized;
- Our community is loved;
- The dream that we all will be one (John 17) is fulfilled.
The Biblical principles that inform the DEI Vision
- Genesis 1:27
- John 17:23
- Romans 12:16
- Philippians 2:4
- Ephesians 4:32
- Colossians 1:16-17
- Revelation 4:11
- Revelation 7:9
Staff
Ralph Trecartin
President
Dr. Ralph R. Trecartin Jr. is the twenty-fourth president of Pacific Union College. He and his wife Virginia encourage young people to walk closely with God through the adventures of life and to honor Him with lives of real joy.
Most recently, Dr. Trecartin held the positions of Associate Provost and Dean, College of Professions at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. In these roles he worked on campus-wide issues and specifically with the Department of Aviation, Department of Computing, School of Business, and helped to launch the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program.
Tuwan Ussery White
Chief Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Officer
Tuwan holds a master's in social work and a master's in pastoral ministry. He is a licensed clinical social worker associate & holds pastoral and ministerial credentials with the Seventh Day Adventist Church. He currently serves as the Service-Learning Director & Assistant Professor of Social Work. He has experience with applying the Bible in cross-cultural conversations and creating opportunities for inclusive teaching and learning with a biblical perspective. Other aspect areas include biblical justice and social change. Tuwan is very happy to serve the PUC community as Chief Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Officer.