Anabela Bettencourt

Hello! My name is Anabela Bettencourt. I was born in Watsonville, California, and spent several years in Fresno before settling in Riverbank with my husband and family.

With extensive experience in both corporate and higher education settings, I have developed a strong background in business, mentoring, management, and data analysis. I am passionate about leadership and find fulfillment in empowering others to reach their full potential. Over the past 20+ years, I have held leadership roles in for-profit and non-profit organizations, always striving to foster growth and collaboration.

Currently, I serve as the Associate Director for Student Business Services at the University of the Pacific, where I oversee financial processes that support students and their families. In addition, I teach Organizational Leadership on the Stockton campus, helping students develop the skills necessary to succeed in their careers and communities.

I earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Leadership from Fresno State. I later completed my Master of Business Administration from Lincoln Memorial University in 2021, where I had the privilege of serving on the Dean’s Student Advisory Board. I also actively contribute to several university committees and organizations outside of work to support institutional and student success.

A recent milestone in my life was becoming a dual citizen of Portugal—an incredibly proud achievement. My next goal is to secure dual citizenship for all four of our boys. When I’m not working, I love spending time with my husband and our sons, whether we’re traveling, camping, enjoying the lake, or cheering them on at football and soccer games.

I live by the words of Albert Einstein:

"I am thankful for all of those who said NO to me. It’s because of them I’m doing it myself."