Dear Pacific Alumni,

It is an honor to introduce myself as the new President of the University of the Pacific Black Alumni Club. As a proud Triple Tiger—earning my degrees in 2013, 2017, and 2024—and a former long-term campus resident, Pacific is more than my alma mater; it is the institution that transformed my life.

I am a lifelong Stockton resident who once struggled through the schools of Southeast Stockton. As a former high school dropout who faced illiteracy and periods of homelessness, I know what it means to fight for an education against all odds. Despite these challenges, I persevered and earned the highest degree offered at California’s first co-educational university. Pacific was my saving grace, and it is now my privilege to serve as a beacon of hope for Tigers who may feel overwhelmed or unsure of their path. Completing your degree is not only possible—it is powerful.

In addition to my service in alumni leadership, I am also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Dome of Hope Organization, Inc., a local nonprofit that teaches independence and sustainability through Education, Technology, Trade, and the Arts, serving individuals from age three to adulthood. Our work to strengthen families and communities earned me the Key to the City, Stockton’s highest civilian honor.

I also had the privilege of working in the University of the Pacific’s Office of Admissions – Operations Department, a position that gave me meaningful insight into a student’s first steps toward becoming a Tiger. That experience deepened my appreciation for the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of Pacific students.

As President, my goals for the Black Alumni Club are to:

• Establish a strong, sustainable structure that will support generations of Black Tigers to come.
• Increase active membership and meaningful engagement within the club.
• Reconnect Pacific alumni with current students, faculty, and the broader community.
• Encourage the use of our Pacific degrees to create positive, cohesive environments in our local, national, and international communities.
• Expand awareness, participation, and contributions to Pacific Gives, ensuring that our alumni community understands that when Pacific gives, everyone benefits and the mission of our university continues.

I am excited for the journey ahead and deeply committed to elevating the voices, presence, and impact of Black alumni within the Pacific family. Together, we will strengthen our network, uplift our community, and inspire the next generation of Tigers to rise.

In partnership and service,

Dr. Gwendolyn Dailey, Ed.D.

President, University of the Pacific Black Alumni Club