Pacifica Stories

Pacifica is excited to welcome Emily Risley as our new Assistant Director of Marketing for Digital Strategy and Analytics. Having joined the team in August, Emily has already begun bringing her creativity, insight, and passion for community to every aspect of her role.

Emily’s journey into marketing began with a Communications degree from Kennesaw State University, which gave her the confidence to tackle new challenges. She started her career at a marketing agency focused on analytics, later working in marketing for a local café and a luxury hotel agency. Through these experiences, she discovered that her greatest motivator is working for a place she truly believes in, which led her to Pacifica.

Growing up in a Christian family in suburban Atlanta, Emily was deeply influenced by her mother, who worked at their church, and by mentors in high school who encouraged her to actively pursue her faith. “Before Pacifica, I hadn’t worked in a Christian environment, and I’ve come to realize how special it is to be part of a team that shares a united purpose,” she says.

Emily moved to Los Angeles two years ago with her husband, Karl (who she happened to meet in high school) and she finds it meaningful to work in a Christian school environment that reminds her of her own high school experience.

One of her favorite moments at Pacifica so far was attending the first flag football game. “It was so special to cheer on the team and see the players crush the competition. It was SO MUCH FUN,” Emily recalls.

She’s looking forward to connecting with students and supporting the admissions team to help new families experience the Pacifica community firsthand.

“I hope that the students leave high school knowing that they have people in their corner that are cheering them on and wanting the best for them as they continue to become adults.”

Outside of work, Emily enjoys cooking, spending time outside, trying new restaurants, watching This Is Us, and serving in the youth ministry at her church. Her warmth, energy, and passion for building community make her a wonderful addition to Pacifica.