Senior Elisabeth Garner ’24 has devoted the past three years to University of the Pacific’s cross country team, but her true dedication lies within Pacific itself.

An active member of the Powell and Humanities Scholars programs, as well as Tribenzene, a chemistry club, the biochemistry major is highly active on campus. For Garner, each facet of her Pacific experience has developed leadership skills that are directly transferable to the course and the classroom.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here,” Garner said. “I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to meet so many amazing people and learn new skills and perspectives that I can take with me into graduate school and beyond.”

Garner also has had the opportunity to travel extensively with both the cross country and track and field teams and academic programs.

“I’ve been able to participate in so many wonderful experiences, from attending the Oregon Shakespeare Festival with my fellow Powell Scholars, conducting and presenting research in chemistry/biology labs at various events and conferences, to competing all around California with the team,” Garner said.

Her work in the classroom and various research labs earned the senior a Stauffer Fellowship in the summer of 2023, providing funding for Garner to engage in undergraduate research.

Garner is a crucial piece in the cross country team’s commitment to excellence in the classroom. The group has boasted a perfect score in the NCAA Graduation Success Rate for the past 14 years. In 2022, Garner was recognized on the West Coast Conference All-Academic honorable mention team.

“Being able to continue my running career at the Division I level has been an amazing experience,” Garner said. “I’m so glad I’ve had the opportunity to work with such an inspiring group of girls who are dedicated to improving our team and reaching our goals for the season.”

On the course, she has set two personal best times in both the 5,000 and 6,000 meters, most recently setting a personal best in the 5,000 meters in 2022.

“Lizzy is an amazing individual. Her hard work and dedication make her a great representative for Pacific and our program,” said head coach Josh Jones.

The cross country team has six races this season, including two postseason races and two home events. The Tigers host the Pacific Invite Friday, Sept. 20 at 6:15 p.m. at Micke Grove Golf Course in Lodi, California. Pacific will also host the West Coast Conference Championships Nov. 2. See the full cross country schedule.

“We’re excited to work hard to represent this university to the best of our ability and achieve personal bests this season,” Garner said. “Though it’s bittersweet that this will be my last year competing, I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish.”