Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year (Photo – PCC)
Ernest Posey and the Posey Family Foundation have been selected as the recipients of the 2024 Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year Award, a prestigious honor that recognizes exceptional contributions to California’s community colleges.
By News Desk
This recognition comes from the Network of California Community College Foundations (NCCCF), an association that champions philanthropic efforts aimed at improving higher education opportunities across the state.
The Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year Award, established in 2009, is named after philanthropist Bernard Osher, whose profound commitment to community colleges has left a lasting impact on students throughout California. This year, Posey and his family foundation are being celebrated for their significant support of Pasadena City College (PCC) and its students.
Ernest Posey, a proud PCC alumnus, attributes much of his success to the education he received at the college. Following his time at PCC, Posey went on to graduate from Harvard University and build a successful career in the medical device industry. Today, he stands as the second-largest donor in PCC’s history, with his philanthropy making a lasting impact on countless students.
One of Posey’s key contributions to PCC is the Posey Low-Interest Nursing Loan Program, which helps alleviate the financial burden of students pursuing careers in healthcare. Launched in 2019, the program has provided over $800,000 in low-interest loans to 74 nursing students. Thanks to its success, the program has expanded to include dental hygiene students as well. With five students already repaying their loans and zero defaults, the initiative has proven to be both effective and sustainable.
“The PCC community is grateful to Mr. Posey and his family for helping our students recognize their potential,” said Dr. José A. Gómez, President of Pasadena City College. “Nurses and teachers help our friends and neighborhoods grow, and the need for these members of our community is only going to get stronger. Supporters like Mr. Posey help us meet the needs of our region’s residents.”
Posey’s impact stretches beyond healthcare, with his support also directed at PCC’s teacher-preparation and career education programs. His philanthropic vision has paved the way for students in these fields to receive the financial backing they need to become future educators and professionals in high-demand sectors.
One such student, Hailey Peters, a graduate of PCC’s nursing program, credits the Posey Low-Interest Nursing Loan Program for helping her achieve her career goals. “I got into nursing because I wanted to help people,” Hailey said. “Now I work on a bone marrow transplant floor with oncology patients, administering life-saving treatments. Without the Posey loan, I wouldn’t be doing the work I am now.”
Anne Paul King, President of the Network of California Community College Foundations, praised Posey’s contributions, noting that his efforts embody the transformative power of philanthropy in community colleges. “Mr. Posey and his family have advanced philanthropy and its critical role in strengthening California’s community colleges, improving student success, and preparing an educated workforce,” she said. “Philanthropy is among the best strategies we have for increasing social and economic mobility, addressing long-standing inequalities in our communities, and ensuring that all members of our community have access to a life-changing higher education.”
The Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year award is presented annually to individuals or organizations who demonstrate exceptional support for California’s community colleges. It was established in honor of Bernard Osher, whose $25 million donation in 2008 helped create the $76 million California Community Colleges Scholarship Endowment, a landmark initiative that has provided scholarships to thousands of students across the state.
For more information about the Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year Award and the Network of California Community College Foundations, visit this website.
The Bernard Osher Philanthropist of the Year event takes place on Wednesday, May 7, at 4:30 pm at Pasadena City College’s Westerbeck Recital Hall. The public can register at this link.
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