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.
Tyree Nichols Statement
By now, many of you have seen the tragic beating of Tyree Nichols, and please know that PUC strongly condemns the actions of any officer that brutalizes citizens. We join others in expressing our disgust for this repulsive act, and our hearts and prayers are with our PUC students who have been triggered by the violence inflicted on Tyree Nichols. Research informs us how unjust killings by police harm the mental health of people of color, and we make certain the practices of our campus safety ensures the safety and well-being of our students. If you are struggling with the aftermath of this recent event, our counselors at the Counseling and Testing Center are available to see you. Our community is joined together, and our hope for a brighter future and a better tomorrow is in Jesus. We will overcome by the blood of the lamb. Revelation 12:11
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
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.