Student Life
STUDENT LIFE AT PACIFICA
Our mission is to cultivate a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging graduate student experience that fosters connection, belonging, and personal growth. Through intentional support, meaningful community opportunities, and responsive services, Student Life partners with students from onboarding through graduation to help them thrive academically, socially, and holistically.
Our Commitments
Belonging and Community
We are committed to creating spaces and experiences where all students feel heard, valued, and connected. Through orientation, campus tours, student clubs, peer mentorship, and community gatherings, we foster a culture of belonging that supports diverse perspectives and shared learning.
Support Across the Student Journey
We are committed to supporting students at every stage of their graduate experience—from onboarding and transition to graduate studies. By providing thoughtful coordination of lodging, dining, mentorship programs, and student-centered resources, we reduce barriers and help students focus on learning, growth, and purpose.
Partnership, Care, and Engagement
We are committed to listening to students and partnering with them in shaping a vibrant campus life reflective of Pacifica’s mission and values. Guided by care, responsiveness, and shared responsibility, we continuously evolve our programs and services to meet the changing needs of our graduate community and to strengthen engagement, well-being, and student success.
Lauren Lastra, M.P.A.
Lauren Lastra (she/her), MPA, is Director of Student Services and Accreditation Deputy at Pacifica Graduate Institute who is committed to a just and mission-centered approach to organizational life. She has served as a member on several councils and committees, including Pacifica’s Diversity Task Force focused on Student Matters, the Diversity and Inclusion Council, and the President’s Task Force on Campus Climate and Employee Morale. She has worked at Pacifica since 2009 in various capacities, including as the Institute’s Sustainability Coordinator and in the Office of the President. Prior to coming to Pacifica, Lauren lived in the Valparaiso region of Chile where she worked as an Educator for the United Nations Development Program. Lauren actively serves as the current President and Founding Board Member of Santa Ynez Valley Pride, as well as past Board Director of People Helping People in Solvang, CA. She is a mama, outdoor enthusiast, and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
Geovany “Geo” Lucero
Geovany “Geo” Lucero (they/them) is the Student Services Coordinator at Pacifica. They are committed to serving students as a resource and amplifying DEI practices on campuses. Geo has over 4 years of experience in student affairs and enjoys being a part of people’s academic journey. Prior to working at Pacifica, they studied feminist studies (B.A.) at University of California, Santa Barbara. While attending UCSB, they were involved in student organizing, advocacy, and leadership throughout various campus organizations such as the Multicultural Center, Hermanas Unidas de UCSB, Associated Students, and more. Their leadership as the 2021-22 Student Advocate General tackled areas such as: return-to-campus guidelines/COVID-19 policies, student housing crises, academic policy/procedure accountability, and student casework. They developed a passion for helping students navigate through their campus resources, programs, and policies in hopes of alleviating any pressures or roadblocks. Geo has worked in student affairs, event programming, public speaking, community advocacy/organizing, as well as dabbling into their barista skills at Starbucks. They enjoy exploring restaurant recommendations, attending live shows/concerts, and adventuring nature with their two dogs, Sage and Gansito.
Nicole Kitzmann
Nicole Kitzmann is the Student Residential Services Manager at Pacifica. She is committed to the organization and implementation of all of your residential lodging and meal needs. Nicole has worked at Pacifica in the area of hospitality for seven years and enjoys ensuring that all students’ needs are met to the best of her ability. Prior to employment at Pacifica, Nicole’s professional experience stems from housing management, personal assisting, and security/first response. She graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Sociology. In her free time, Nicole enjoys long walks with her dog Cozmo, catching a live sporting event, and time with family and friends.
