PUC Begins Great Start to the Academic Year

With studetns back at Pacific Union College, the ambiance has been electrifying. New and returning students have added vibrance back on campus, expressing their highly energetic and positive energy for the 2025-2026 school year.

On September 17, freshmen arrived on campus for Fusion. From the moment students entered the campus, PUC Director of Student Involvement Sharleen Bouit aimed to create an inclusive environment where they felt a sense of belonging. “We also wanted students to experience the spiritual heartbeat of our campus—knowing that if they wished, they could find a vibrant spiritual life here and grow in their connection with God,” she said. “Fusion was designed to help students recognize that PUC is a place where both community and faith can thrive.”

As Bouit met the newest Pioneers, she noticed a friendliness and spark in this particular group, showcasing their eagerness to get involved, which made her anticipate their helpfulness in shaping PUC. “What has been especially encouraging is their willingness to experience God and learn about Him,” she shared. Seeing how open they are to community and faith has given Bouit hope for how they will grow and even lead during their first year at PUC.

Alongside Bouit in executing a successful three-day student orientation was PUC Student and Spiritual Life Vice President Aimee Leukert, who helped plan the event, Academic Dean and Vice President for Academic Administration Lindsay Hayasaka, who led informational sessions and guided students and families into PUC’s learning environment, and many student leaders who assisted staff, faculty, new students and their families in many ways, from helping them move-in, navigating campus, and making them feel supported and at home.

Outside of new student orientation, the Fusion team organized a bowling outing and food truck events that were a huge hit, tied with enjoying downtime to relax and socialize with their classmates. These simple moments gave students time to connect with their class, create lasting friendships, and get them excited for the year ahead.

Creating a welcoming and eventful atmosphere is not only for students, but also for families and guardians, to ensure they are part of the PUC journey. From the Pioneer Welcome Ceremony to a family session and dinner with President Ralph Trecartin, families allow PUC to provide a memorable experience that fosters a sense of connection and support from the faculty and staff for both themselves and their child. PUC is more than a place of study; it is a community that cares deeply about fostering authentic relationships that will last beyond the students' college years.

One parent shared a “heartfelt affirmation” that left a deep impression on Bouit, profoundly resonating with her. A mother shared that she attended an orientation at UC Berkeley before dropping her son off at PUC. After attending both orientations, she found PUC “far more welcoming, thoughtful, and inviting.” Bouit said that hearing the mother's comment affirmed the mission of Fusion, creating a community-centered experience way beyond an ordinary college orientation.

As parents entrust their students to PUC, Bouit hopes they feel peace and confidence knowing their child is safe and supported on a campus where they can thrive and experience a healthy relationship with God. “We honor and support each student’s choice and expression of faith,” Bouit expressed. “We strive to provide an environment where spiritual growth is both welcomed and nurtured.”

On September 21, returning students moved back on campus before the fall quarter began the following day. Week of Welcome was nothing short of eventful, as students had the opportunity to attend Pioneer Madness, dorm worship, Club Rush, and an outdoor Sabbath lunch with the entire college. Bouit and her team worked hard and thoughtfully to continue their mission of fostering a culture where every student feels involved and wants to be part of this mission.

“My vision is for PUC to be a place where every student feels they can contribute their unique gifts—adding their own splash of color to the tapestry of our campus life,” said Bouit. “Alongside that, I want to nurture a spiritual environment where students can explore and grow in their relationship with God in a way that is authentic to them. There is incredible potential here, and I believe this year will be one where that potential truly begins to flourish. Let’s go, Pioneers!”