New Student Trustee Strives for Collaboration and Community

You may have seen one of her social media posts or heard her on “The Panther Experience” podcast. Now, Ignacia Benitez Piraino will represent Palm Beach State College’s students at the highest level as the College’s 2026-27 Student Trustee. 

Benitez Piraino, originally from Santiago, Chile, was selected from a field of 17 applicants following a competitive interview process. She will serve as the official student voice on PBSC’s District Board of Trustees, advocating for issues affecting more than 40,000 students across the College’s five campuses. 

 She enrolled at PBSC in 2024 after transferring from Palm Beach Atlantic University, where she spent a year studying theatre and fine arts. She earned her Associate in Arts degree from PBSC in 2025 and is now pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science with a focus on general management.

Having visited the United States for several years, Benitez Piraino relocated at the encouragement of her brother, who was already here pursuing his own education at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Leaving Chile was difficult, she said, but like many people, she reached the moment where she knew she needed to make a decision about her future. 

At PBSC, she found an environment that encouraged exploration. From film and English to psychology and environmental science, Benitez Piraino says inspiring professors and faculty showed her how meaningful education can be. 

“Education opens your mind to understanding how many possibilities you have,” she said. 

At first, she went to class and went home; now she takes advantage of every opportunity that PBSC offers. She has been involved in various organizations, including serving as Vice President of the Student Government Association on the Palm Beach Gardens campus and as Public Relations Officer for the Students for International Understanding Club. Benitez Piraino currently works for Assistant Dean of Student Services Keana Roberts on the Palm Beach Gardens campus. 

A work-study role in admissions helped her realize the impact she could have on others. By connecting with students in person, she learned that any interaction could provide a sense of grounding and reassurance. That reinforced her belief in a “we’re figuring this out together” approach. 

The 2025 Kimmel Leadership Academy gave her greater insight into herself as a leader. Through the program, she learned not only how to be a better leader but also how to recognize the strengths each team member brings and use those qualities to help the group succeed. During the academy, she completed the Clifton Assessment, which gave her more perspective on her own strengths. 

“Beyond the classroom, Ignacia has built an impressive record of leadership and service to the PBSC community,” said John David DeChant, professor of international marketing and communications. 

As Student Trustee, she wants to increase access to honors coursework on the College’s five campuses.  

"There is opportunity for everyone," she said. "It's about expanding it and making it available on the five campuses." 

Palm Beach Gardens Campus Provost Stephen E. Joyner, PhD, who recommended Benitez Piraino for the role, said her experiences on and off campus reflect her dedication to inclusion, service, and improving the lives of others. 

Benitez Piraino wants to be the bridge that connects students and the administration. She wants to help students understand how the District Board of Trustees’ decisions affect them and ensure that their perspectives are considered in the decision-making process. 

“I love how Palm Beach State has everybody in different stages of life,” Benitez Piraino said. “That’s so beautiful about this community: You have all these different people, from different places in the world, from different stages in their life, but they all come together for the same purpose, which is to receive an education.” 

Follow along with her journey on Palm Beach State College’s official Student Trustee Instagram, @pbscstudenttrustee, or connect with Benitez Piraino directly at studenttrustee@pbsc.edu.