Bernard, Robert J.

Robert J. Bernard, 1894-1981, graduated from Pomona College in 1917, held various administrative positions at the Claremont Colleges from 1917 until 1963, including president of Claremont University Center from 1942 until 1963, and was founding trustee of Claremont McKenna College, Harvey Mudd College, and Pitzer College. James Blaisdell, president of Pomona College, was the principal architect of the Group Plan of the Claremont Colleges, incorporated in 1925. As Blaisdell's assistant and then successor, Bernard was responsible for its development and expansion. He was also instrumental in bringing Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, the Blaisdell Institute for Advanced Study in World Cultures and Religions, and the School of Theology to Claremont. He was an active member of the Town Hall of Los Angeles, the World Affairs Council, the Southern California Symphony Association, and the Hollywood Bowl Association.