At Pacifica, shared governance is grounded in the mission of the Institute:
To foster creative learning and research in the fields of psychology and mythological studies, framed in the traditions of depth psychology.
Guided by the core values of logos, eros, consciousness, integrity, service, and stewardship, shared governance at Pacifica is a collaborative institute-wide process that is dependent on trust and open communication among community members in an environment of mutual respect, collegiality, and shared accountability. Pacifica’s shared governance operates through a collective decision-making process in which the members of each of the major constituencies (the Board of Trustees, Executive Leadership, Faculty, Staff, and Students) work together to implement the Institute’s mission.
Pacifica’s Vision of Shared Governance
A successful institution of higher learning is one that draws on the shared wisdom of its many constituents, all of whom are committed to achieving the Institute’s mission. In achieving our mission, all community members commit to think, speak, and act in a way that prioritizes academic excellence and care of the soul, which are central to what informs our policies, academic programs, curriculum, research, and scholarship, as well as institutional health and student success in both the short and long term.
Pacifica Graduate Institute’s philosophy of institutional governance is, therefore, grounded in the definition of a collegium—a society of colleagues, a fellowship—and in our core values. This means that consciousness, a shared sense of responsibility and service, the free expression of ideas, stewardship, and open communication are all intrinsic to Pacifica’s vision of shared governance. While Pacifica’s decision-making practices may be complex and evolving, they are to be carried out with psychological consciousness that reflects self-awareness and empathy in support of our shared mission.
Read more on Pacifica’s complete Shared Governance Statement, including details on pathways and communities of authority and responsibility.
Pacifica is currently in progress on finalizing a decision matrix that will outline the roles and responsibilities of various bodies in the making of key institutional decisions. Check back on this page for updates.