This year marked 30 years of service at PUC for Milbert Mariano, dean of the School of Arts, Humanities, and Professions. Before becoming dean, he spent nearly 25 years as a professor of graphic design in the Visual Arts Department, serving as department chair for 12 of those years. He then advanced to become the college’s vice president for academic administration and academic dean. 

As someone who has been extremely devoted and plays a key role at PUC, we wanted to reflect with Milbert on the past 30 years. 

What initially drew you to PUC and made you want to work here?

PUC has always been a science- and healthcare-strong campus—even before I arrived, that’s been part of its identity. What drew me, though, was the space that was still made for creativity and the arts. I’ve appreciated that—even in a STEM-focused environment—there’s been room at the table for visual expression, storytelling, and design. That commitment to a holistic, liberal arts education is what made PUC feel like the right fit.

How has PUC changed since your first day as a professor in the visual arts department?

When I first started at PUC, it was all about slide projectors, X-Acto knives, and hand-drawn comps. We’ve moved from analog to digital, from film processing rooms to design labs and iPads. But what hasn’t changed is the spirit—students still show up curious, creative, and hopeful.

One really positive change is that our faculty and staff have become more diverse in both gender and ethnicity, and our student body has become more diverse. That diversity has strengthened classroom conversations, artistic expression, and the sense of community across campus. It’s been encouraging to witness that growth over time.

From being a professor to an academic dean and now the dean of arts, humanities, and professions, do you have a favorite memory from working those jobs?

As a professor, one of my favorite—and most unexpected—memories was when a student proposed to his girlfriend in my classroom. He left her a note that said, “Meet me at the place where we met,” and transformed the space into a romantic setting with lights and a dinner setup. That’s where he proposed. Moments like that remind you how much life happens in our classrooms.

As a dean, some of my favorite memories have come from board meetings. That might sound surprising, but they’re moments to take stock of where we are and where we’re headed. Over the past five years, I’ve come to really value the thoughtful engagement of our board members, many of whom serve as ambassadors and friends of the college.

Your role has evolved over the years. What initiatives or projects are you the most proud of?

I’m proud of growing the Publications Workshop into a meaningful, student-centered event that introduces high school students to storytelling and design. I’m also proud of helping departments like Aviation and many others continue to grow and innovate, contributing to the development of several of our master’s programs, and helping many of our programs become more relevant as the higher education landscape continues to evolve. Helping build those from the ground up and innovating from within has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.

What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned from your time at PUC? How have they influenced your professional development?

Listen more than you speak. Create space for other people’s ideas. And always lead with clarity and kindness. These lessons have shaped how I mentor, build programs, and work with faculty and students alike.

How does your job inspire you?

I get to be part of helping people grow—students, faculty, and sometimes even entire departments. That’s a pretty inspiring thing to be involved in.

What is your favorite thing about working at PUC?

The opportunity to create. Whether that’s a program, a syllabus, a piece of art, or a new collaboration—it’s a place where creative ideas can take shape.

When you reflect on the last 30 years at PUC, what memories stand out most?

Senior exhibitions, moments of academic breakthrough, and a lot of laughter with colleagues. I’ve also been choked up more than once while calling students’ names at graduation—knowing how far they’ve come and what they’ve sacrificed to get there. Those stories make my heart swell.

What restaurants do you recommend in the Napa Valley? What is your order recommendation?

The Small World Café in Napa serves great falafel. Gott’s in St. Helena is a classic—I love the ahi burger. Guigni’s in St. Helena is a classic, and Azteca Market (also in St. Helena) has some of the best burritos around. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll head to Farmstead mainly for their sides. But honestly, one of the best things you can get in the valley is the mozzarella al minuto—served at both Pizzeria Tra Vigne and Basswood Restaurant. It’s simple, fresh, and amazing.

Describe your perfect weekend in the Napa Valley.

That’s easy. It starts with taco night with friends on Friday, then Sabbath morning at church, participating in heartful praise and worship music and listening to one of Pastor Nate’s thought-provoking sermons. Lunch or potluck follows with a big mix of students, faculty, staff, and community. 

Then, maybe, a quick nap before heading out for a hike or bike ride in the Back 40. Saturday night would be capped off at a Pioneers game.  Sunday morning starts with a long run with my wife, good coffee, and time with my family—possibly ending with a trip to the new Costco in Napa.

What keeps you at PUC?

The potential—and the people. While we all (Higher Ed and Adventist Education) have our challenges, I believe this is still a place where new things can take root. I also feel honored to be part of its legacy and the amazing community that surrounds this place. The students keep me grounded, and the faculty keeps me hopeful.

What advice would you give a new PUC employee?

Take the time to listen and learn about the culture—but don’t be afraid to ask questions or offer your ideas. And eat lunch with someone new every now and then.

How do you see PUC and your role grow in the next year?

I see more integration across disciplines, more experiential learning, and more strategic focus on preparing students for life after college. My role will continue to be one of connector and builder—helping ideas turn into action.