Dear Pacifica Community,
We write today to inform you of an important decision regarding the future of Pacifica’s campuses. After much thoughtful consideration and analysis, it has been determined that Pacifica will not renew our lease of the Lambert Campus following its expiration in April 2027, and all the Institute’s operations and on-campus programs will move to the Ladera Campus starting in the Fall 2026 quarter.
We understand and share in how this announcement evokes a range of emotions and questions, reflecting the deep and personal significance of the beloved Lambert Campus in shaping the Pacifica experience for so many over the years. At the same time, we recognize the understandable concerns about what it means to transition to a one-campus model.
This decision was reached after extensive deliberation and careful consideration of various scenarios as part of the Institute’s long-range planning process. It also aligns with the findings of a Campus Utilization Study, conducted at the recommendation of our WSCUC accreditors, to guide the development of a comprehensive Facilities/Campus Master Plan.
We recognize the emotional and logistical challenges involved in closing a campus, especially given the meaning the Lambert campus and its spaces have held for Pacifica over nearly 35 years. By making this decision, it enables the Institute to reallocate significant resources toward enhancing the experience of students, faculty, staff, and the broader community, while also advancing Pacifica’s growth and impact as an academic institution. Transitioning to a single campus brings the Pacifica community – both psychologically and physically – into the same house, fostering a collaborative, interactive, and integrated environment. We believe this shift will contribute to a stronger shared sense of identity, story, and vision.
As we continue to expand access to Pacifica’s programs through multiple delivery modes (in-person, hybrid, and online), we remain committed to the depth psychological mission of Pacifica, the pursuit of rich and rigorous education, and the value of a vibrant campus experience. Consolidating our community within one physical space strengthens opportunities for meaningful connections across programs, offices, and initiatives, making the benefits of campus life even more tangible.
This marks a transformative moment, bridging Pacifica’s storied history with its bright future as we commemorate our 50th anniversary in 2026. The Lambert campus has been more than merely a place – it has been a significant symbol to all those who have been on its land, and it will be honored as such. The transition to a single campus is a testament to our ongoing commitment to imagination, community, and the enduring spirit of our mission.
As the Board of Trustees, we hold fiduciary responsibility for the Institute, ensuring its long-term planning and overall health, both of which are currently in a strong and stable position. This decision was not made in isolation, nor does it reflect financial challenges or downsizing of operations or programs. Instead, it stems from extensive time, thoughtful deliberation, and broad involvement, all focused on investing in the Ladera campus and enhancing the student experience to support the present and future of Pacifica.
Moving forward, we will rely on collaboration across the entire community, trusting the school’s leadership to engage inclusively in the preparations and planning for this transition over the next two years.
Please know this is just the first of many communications and engagements on this topic as we prepare for the transition in the fall of 2026 and start of the 2026-2027 academic year. Students in coursework at Lambert will remain there for the remainder of this current academic year and for the 2025-2026 academic year. Our goal in relaying this announcement now is to allow the time and space needed for collective planning, processing, and ritual. Regular communications and updates will be sent as we engage further on the implementation of this transition, as well as on providing support systems and resources.
In the meantime, further information on the decision, honoring the Lambert campus, next steps, and logistics can be found on this webpage.
As an initial step in what will be a thoughtful and collaborative process, we warmly invite the Pacifica community to share your input and questions regarding this decision, your support needs, and your ideas for honoring and celebrating the Lambert Campus and the upcoming 50th anniversary of Pacifica in 2026. Questions, feedback, and ideas can be left on Pacifica Campus Transition – Questions, Ideas, & Feedback Form.
We deeply appreciate the passion and dedication this community holds for the Institute and are committed to ensuring that this campus transition and Pacifica’s future honor and reflect that profound care.
Sincerely,
Pacifica’s Board of Trustees