George W. Bernard ’63, Ph.D. ’67

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With a teaching career of remarkable length and breadth, George Bernard has, for more than 30 years, made academic contributions to oral biology that have been fundamental to the UCLA School of Dentistry’s reputation as a world leader in dental education. He has mentored more M.S. and Ph.D. students than any other faculty member in the School of Dentistry, all while being a primary force in predoctoral education.

After developing and chairing the dentistry school’s first cardiology course, Bernard initiated and chaired both the oral histology and embryology courses as well as a graduate course in the biology of the bone. Insisting upon fundamental principles, his multifaceted approach utilizes evolutionary, histological, experimental, clinical and development perspectives, giving each topic more dimension and coherence.

With a lecturing style that mixes erudition and clarity, Bernard often uses anecdotal material to make the subject relevant to his audience. His scholarly understanding of his subjects, combined with a vast clinical experience, makes for a refined, smooth-flowing teaching style. One amazing aspect of Bernard’s teaching style is that he does not read from notes but rather ad-libs his lectures.

Bernard’s dedication to student learning is ever apparent: he always seems to have a group of students around him, probing for more in-depth understanding of the day’s lecture. He is equally available for the graduate student “struggling with the periodicy of collagen fibrils” as he is for the freshmen dental student suddenly seized by the notion of a mistaken career choice.

In 1992, former and current students joined in an all-day symposium entitled “25 Years of Bone Biology with Dr. George W. Bernard,” which honored the professor’s ongoing contributions to his field and the university. As one noted, “His successful efforts to educate students at all levels – scientifically and clinically – and to elevate us professionally is key to UCLA graduating dentists that are true ‘doctors.’”