President Christopher Callahan’s annual address to the University of the Pacific community outlines a year of significant growth and sets ambitious goals for the future. The message highlights record-breaking achievements, strategic partnerships, and a bold proposal for a new medical school, reinforcing the institution’s upward trajectory.
Reflecting on a Year of National Recognition and Growth
The University of the Pacific concluded 2025 with a series of accomplishments that solidified its reputation as a leading institution. The university achieved its second-best enrollment year in its 174-year history, enrolling 6,852 students from 43 states and 57 countries. This growth occurred while many peer institutions faced declining enrollment, a testament to Pacific’s appeal and strategic direction.
Academic and research excellence were also on full display. Faculty members conducted groundbreaking research in diverse fields, from discovering a new heart disease drug to identifying the oldest modern bird skull. Student success stories included national recognition for musicians and engineers, while alumni made their mark on the world stage with achievements such as an Emmy Award, a Wimbledon championship, and a debut on American Idol.
These successes did not go unnoticed. The university earned its highest-ever national university ranking from The Wall Street Journal (No. 85), was designated a Top Opportunity College by the Carnegie Foundation, and was named one of America’s “Dream Schools” by higher education author Jeff Selingo.
Strategic Partnerships and Campus Development
Strategic partnerships have been a cornerstone of Pacific’s recent success. A landmark collaboration with the San Francisco 49ers has created new opportunities for students and faculty while raising the university’s public profile. Philanthropy has also played a crucial role, funding the reopening of Manor Hall for student veterans and the expansion of the Eglet Center for Advocacy and Dispute Resolution. A record-breaking Pacific Gives day saw nearly 4,600 donors contribute over $2.5 million.
Campus infrastructure is also evolving. The university has committed to 100% renewable energy across all three campuses. Upcoming projects include:
- San Francisco Campus: A new state-of-the-art audiology learning center and ambulatory surgical centers for the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry.
- Stockton Campus: The new Jie Du Inn, a Student-Athlete and Sports Medicine Center, and the newly constructed Southwest Hall residence hall.
Proposing a Medical School for Stockton
The most significant potential development announced is the exploration of a medical school on the Stockton Campus. A global consulting firm was hired to assess feasibility and concluded that the region is in desperate need of a medical school and that Pacific is well-positioned to build a high-quality, accredited institution. The university’s existing strengths in health sciences, dentistry, pharmacy, and undergraduate education provide a strong foundation.
However, President Callahan emphasized that this is still an exploratory phase. Two major hurdles remain: securing a deep clinical partnership for student rotations and acquiring substantial new financial resources for construction and initial operating deficits. The university will not proceed unless it can be done without drawing from existing resources and with a clear path to long-term financial sustainability. If approved, a medical school would not open before Fall 2030.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
As the University of the Pacific prepares to celebrate its 175th anniversary, the focus remains on its core mission. The institution will continue to strengthen shared governance, conduct external reviews of compensation and administrative operations, and advance its WASC reaccreditation process. Guided by its values, Pacific remains committed to providing a transformational education to all qualified students, regardless of their background. The year ahead promises to build on a remarkable foundation of success and innovation.
