The Story of Bernard by Julie Ann Olivera https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao This Padlet tells the life story of Bernard as shaped by his hard work, inspiration, family, and cherished memories. It highlights the key events, meaningful relationships, and lessons he has learned along the way. Through photos, stories, music, and reflections, we celebrate how Bernard’s experiences have molded the person he is today. en-us 2025-07-25 02:12:26 UTC 2025-08-12 00:12:45 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f4d6.png Bernard is a 73-year-old college professor whose life has been shaped by perseverance, education, and the support of others. He was born in the village of Manjotahon in Liberia. Since his parents were unable to officially register his birth, Bernard was never certain of his exact birth date. Wanting to fit in and have a date to celebrate, he decided to adopt the birthday of one of his close friends, and choosing March 16, 1952, as his own. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528400427 2025-07-25 04:34:51 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528400427 Bernard’s educational journey began in Liberia, where he attended Cuttington University and majored in Education. His path to higher education was made possible through the support of American missionaries, who helped him gain access to both high school and college opportunities. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528401722 2025-07-25 04:36:39 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528401722 In 1978, Bernard moved to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in English as a Second Language at the State University of New York. He earned this degree in 1980 with the help of Fulbright Scholarship. Shortly after, he returned to Liberia, where he spent the next eight years teaching and serving as an educational leader. From 1980 to 1988, he worked in several schools and served as the dean of the Zorzor Teacher Training Institute, while also building his own family. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528404173 2025-07-25 04:40:57 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528404173 In 1988, Bernard once again returned to the United States to continue his academic studies. He enrolled at the University of Illinois, where he earned a second master’s degree in English Literature between 1988 and 1990. He then pursued a third master’s degree in Reading, which he completed in 1993. His passion for education did not stop there. In 1996, Bernard earned a Doctorate in Education, marking a major milestone in his academic journey. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528412349 2025-07-25 04:56:16 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528412349 Later that same year, Bernard began teaching at Pima Community College in Arizona. He has been a dedicated educator there ever since, sharing his knowledge, life experiences, and deep commitment to learning with generations of students. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528415502 2025-07-25 05:02:23 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528415502 From a small village in Liberia to classrooms in the United States, Bernard’s life reflects the value of education, the strength of determination, and the power of support and opportunity. His story continues to inspire those around him especially his family. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528416035 2025-07-25 05:03:32 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3528416035 When I asked Bernard about how society has changed, important news stories, or songs that meant something to him, he said there wasn’t really anything that came to mind. Those things didn’t have a big impact on him. He was more focused on his goals, getting his education, working hard, and taking care of his family. That’s what mattered most to him and what shaped his life the most. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529019041 2025-07-26 03:30:20 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529019041 Working as a Dean in Liberia. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021283 2025-07-26 03:36:36 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021283 Graduation in Liberia. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021438 2025-07-26 03:37:04 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021438 Grateful and proud. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021849 2025-07-26 03:38:32 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021849 Family reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021969 2025-07-26 03:38:54 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529021969 “Study hard and be serious in school.” reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529022374 Education has always been a big part of his life, and he believes that taking it seriously can open doors and lead to a better future.

]]> 2025-07-26 03:40:32 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529022374 Bernard believes that growing older can sometimes lead to discrimination. However, through education, he was able to support himself and remain independent. He feels that education empowers aging adults to overcome challenges and live with dignity. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529024188 2025-07-26 03:45:23 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529024188 Bernard’s happiest memories are tied to completing his education and reaching the goals he set for himself and his family. He takes pride in giving back to his community and serving with a deep sense of purpose. Even today, he continues to support others who are striving to achieve their own. reignq1 https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529025038 2025-07-26 03:48:22 UTC https://padlet.com/reignq1/q8ocp7u4a6jy63ao/wish/3529025038