Following more than 35 years of exemplary dedication to UC San Diego, Campus Human Resources Executive Director, Data Systems and Processes, Pearl Trinidad, is retiring from UC San Diego on March 4, 2024.
Trinidad's trajectory with UC San Diego began over three decades ago during her undergraduate years at Thurgood Marshall (Third) College, where she pursued a degree in Quantitative Economics Decision Science Management while also dedicating her time as a student employee, offering guidance and support as a peer counselor to underrepresented middle school students helping pave their course toward the UC System.
Upon graduation, Trinidad transitioned seamlessly into a career role as a Principal Analyst in the Accounting Office. Her impact was immediate and profound, spearheading significant initiatives such as the implementation of UC San Diego’s inaugural mainframe Payroll Personnel System. This transformative endeavor not only modernized processes but also earned her the honor of being named one of UC San Diego’s Outstanding Employees of the Year.
Throughout her career, Trinidad assumed increasingly influential leadership roles, progressing from Payroll Director to Senior Director of Payroll and Finance, before being appointed as Executive Director for Business Transformation and Optimization within Business and Financial Services. During her tenure, she oversaw critical functions spanning Payroll Operations, Health and Welfare, Budget and Finance, Accounting and Taxation and Compensation, consistently garnering numerous innovation awards and recognition for excellence in customer satisfaction.
In her recent role of Executive Director of Data Systems and Processes, reporting to Campus Chief Human Resources Officer Terri Winbush, Trinidad offered visionary guidance to several teams, spearheading initiatives in Business Intelligence, HR Payroll, Organizational Change Management, and Program Management and Business Integration. Her leadership was crucial in implementing UCPath/PeopleSoft across UC San Diego and unifying the Central Personnel offices for a successful launch, advocating tirelessly for the university's interests. Trinidad's distinctive technical and operational expertise has facilitated positive changes and enhancements benefiting all UC locations.
Trinidad's dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion has been an enduring hallmark of her tenure at UC San Diego. From her formative roles to her engagement as a member of the Chancellor's Advisory Committee on the Status of Women and as a Leaders for Equity Advancement and Diversity (LEAD) fellow, she has tirelessly advocated for inclusive practices at every opportunity.
Additionally, her pivotal role as part of the local and system wide task force for the Presidential Policy on Gender Recognition and Lived Name underscores her commitment to advancing equality for all members of the university community. Through her multifaceted efforts, Trinidad has played a vital role in shaping UC San Diego into a more inclusive and welcoming institution.
Trinidad’s career with UC San Diego has been characterized by innovation, grace, servant leadership and her steadfast commitment to the Triton community. Her contributions to the University of California will be felt for years to come and she will be greatly missed.
As Trinidad embarks on this new chapter, join me in congratulating her and wishing her all the best in her future endeavors.
