PUC’s department of visual arts has been led by the same very capable chair for a dozen years now. Milbert Mariano, native to SoCal, taught for four years at Andrews University in Michigan before moving back to the West Coast and joining the visual arts faculty at PUC. He’s an outdoor enthusiast like none other and enjoys pretty much any activity that involves being outside. Without further ado, let’s get to know Milbert Mariano.

Name: Milbert Mariano
Title: Professor of Graphic Design
Email: mmariano@puc.edu 
Faculty since: 1995

Classes taught: Typography, Publication Design, Interactive Design, Environmental Graphic Design, among others.

Education: MFA, San Francisco Academy of Art; BS, Pacific Union College

Highlighted professional activities:

Juror for the Napa Lighted Art Festival and the Napa Art Walk

What made you decide to be a teacher?
After getting my design degree at PUC, I had the opportunity to teach at Andrews University. I realized that teaching was my calling while I was teaching there. A few years later, PUC called me as they were expanding their design program. I knew it was something that I wanted to be a part of helping grow. I’ve been teaching ever since and chairing for the past 12 years.

What are some of your hobbies?
I love food, travel, running, and 80s trivia.

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
I can solve a Rubik’s cube and do a New York Times crossword puzzle (Mondays only) in about 8-10 minutes.

What’s your favorite thing about PUC?
The community of faculty, staff, and their families. We work and go to church together, and live relatively close to each other. I think it’s important to find and build community wherever you are.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?
Anywhere in Fisher Hall/Visual Arts Department. It’s like my second home.

What’s your favorite book?
“Les Miserables”

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?
PUC’s a great place to put in your 10,000 hours. So work your rear off, and make yourself at home.