A native of New York, Robert 巴贝拉 moved to Southern 加州 in 1955. He earned an accounting degree at 加州 State University, Los Angeles, in 1958. The dean of the accounting department took him under her wing, helping him to secure some scholarships that would make tuition affordable for the young newlywed. The experience instilled in him a heightened sense of the value of education and a tremendous appreciation for the benefactors who make it possible — and whom he has since strived to emulate.
The founder and CEO of 巴贝拉 Property Management, which owns several businesses in the San Gabriel Valley, Mr. 巴贝拉 is a dedicated philanthropist, giving generously to numerous educational organizations. Having come to know 托马斯。 Aquinas College well over the years, he is particularly impressed with its unique academic program. “It is only in liberal education that we can truly further ourselves,他说. “With liberal education you broaden the mind.”
This assessment has been confirmed, he adds, by his meetings with the College’s students. “You couldn’t be more impressed with a better quality of people. At 托马斯。 Aquinas, you really see the best of the best.”
The 巴贝拉s have for many years been faithful and generous friends of the College. Their gifts include the funds for the design and construction of the Stations of the Cross on the campus’s lower drive and the prayer garden on the south side of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Chapel. Calling his appointment to the Board “a great opportunity” to be part of “a great place,” Mr. 巴贝拉 enjoys working on its behalf. “I just hope that I can do my part for 托马斯。 Aquinas, and to encourage other people to help in the process,他说.