PUC Welcomes Libett Muñoz Beard as New Registrar

On June 12, Elizabeth (Libett) Muñoz Beard stepped into the role as Pacific Union College’s new Registrar in the Records Office, following Craig Philpott’s retirement after 40 faithful years at PUC. Coming to campus from Riverside, CA, Muñoz is a distinguished and experienced educator with a deep passion for the Seventh-day Adventist mission and education– a valuable contribution that PUC is delighted and proud to have.

She faithfully served in the education sector for 33 years, including 28 in Adventist education, where she served as principal at La Sierra Academy for the last six years, after beginning her career at La Sierra University, followed by Loma Linda University and Cal State San Bernardino. With roots grounded in LSU, Muñoz earned a BBA in accounting and both an MA and an Ed.S. in educational leadership and administration. She has also been working on her Ed.D. this past year and is actively completing her dissertation.

Muñoz brings a wealth of experience in leadership, higher education, program, staff, and curriculum development, and community outreach. She is passionate about the Seventh-day Adventist mission within academia, where God wholly impacts each student because her greatest reward is “seeing students grow, flourish, and later return to share how education helped shape their lives.”

As her impact has touched the lives of many people and students, Muñoz recalled what called her into education in the first place: her grandparents, who moved from Peru in the 1950s to pursue Adventist education. It was their commitment to faith and learning that paved the way for her future. She also credits the many teachers, professors, colleagues, and mentors for encouraging her throughout her career, with honorable mentions going to her husband, Branden, and her son, Dakota, a PUC alumnus who now works for the University of Miami, for inspiring her to continue to give back to Adventist education. “Education is more than a career—it's a calling. Every day is an opportunity to make a lasting difference in a student's life,” said Muñoz.

“When I first met Libett, she was the Principal of La Sierra Academy,” said PUC President Dr. Ralph Trecartin. “We had a great conversation at that time, but I never dreamt we would be able to get her to come to PUC. I am a strong believer in the quote “if you never ask, you will never receive.” We are often blessed in unexpected ways, and this was one of those special blessing situations. Our PUC leadership team is delighted to have someone of such an excellent skill set and ability to help us move forward as we aim for a switch to semesters.”

Although Muñoz originates from Riverside, CA, she recalls the deep roots and history of PUC that have lingered throughout her family’s story for generations. “My grandparents came to Angwin so my grandfather could earn his degree at PUC, and many members of my family—including my sister and my son—are PUC alumni,” she said. “Moving to PUC feels like coming home.”

With PUC as her new home, Muñoz continues to settle into the campus and the Angwin community as a whole, which she describes as “one of the most beautiful college campuses.” She enjoys embarking on a walk or run, savoring a nice dinner with Branden, and spending time with their three cats– Mando, Lulu, and Blue. On more adventurous occasions, she enjoys skiing, golfing, traveling, and shopping.

“I believe PUC is God's school,” said Muñoz. “As we remain faithful to our Adventist mission while providing excellent academics and meaningful opportunities for our students, I believe PUC will continue to thrive for generations to come.”

When you see Muñoz, make sure to say hi and welcome her to PUC!