Dear Pacifica Community,
As November arrives, we find ourselves settling into the steady rhythm of the academic year. This time of year, often invites reflection—a moment to pause, notice where we are, and acknowledge the many ways we support and show up for one another as a community.
On Tuesday, November 11, Pacifica will join the nation in observing Veterans Day. On this day I personally honor my father, uncle, and grandfather along with all persons who have served in the U.S. military—their courage, their sacrifice, and the stories they carry. To the veterans within our Pacifica community—students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the family members who support them—Thank You. We are deeply grateful for your service and for the perspective and wisdom you bring to our shared learning environment.
We also recognize that this day may bring forward a range of emotions, especially within a world holding so much conflict and uncertainty. Veterans Day invites us to hold space for complexity—to listen, to reflect, and to honor the lived experiences of others with care and respect.
Pacifica will observe the holiday on Tuesday, November 11. If you or someone you know would benefit from support or resources, please remember that help is available. Veterans can connect 24/7 with the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and pressing 1, or texting 838255. Additional local and campus resources can be accessed through the Office of People Culture and Belonging (OPCB), which can assist in connecting employees and students to supportive services.
As a community rooted in belonging, let’s continue to reflect one of our core values: holding space for one another with empathy, compassion, and respect for each person’s lived experience.
You can find local events in your area online or participate in one of the virtual events below:
- Arlington National Cemetery Veterans Day Ceremony: Streamed live at 11 a.m. ET on November 11th through DVIDS.
- National Veterans Memorial Museum Veterans Day Ceremony: Features actor Matthew Modine as the keynote speaker and can be watched online at 11 a.m. on November 11th.
- United States Navy Memorial Wreath Laying Ceremony: A virtual option is available for the ceremony held from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM on November 11th.
Thank you for the care and intention you bring to Pacifica.
Warm Regards,
Deneatrice Lewis
Pacifica Graduate Institute
Vice President of People Culture and Belonging
Deneatrice Lewis, MS, is the Vice President of People, Culture, and Belonging at Pacifica Graduate Institute. She engages with students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, and community partners to foster an inclusive culture. Overseeing Human Resources, she identifies challenges, crafts strategic solutions, and integrates Pacifica’s goals into HR and organizational development.
Deneatrice is an experienced HR professional with a background in both private and public educational environments. She has worked at the University of La Verne, American Career College, San Bernardino Community College District, Woodland Joint Unified School District, and Santa Barbara City College (SBCC). She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Leadership and Organizational Management, both with a concentration in Human Resources, from the University of La Verne.
Hired as Director of Human Resources at SBCC during the pandemic, Deneatrice advanced systems, processes, and relationships with integrity and compassion. In 2022, she became the interim VP of HR.
