APLU Staff Profile: Bernard Mair

Name: Bernard Mair
Department: Academic Affairs
Title: Senior Vice President & Chief Academic Officer
Date you joined APLU: January 1, 2019

Why did you want to work at APLU?
Higher education has recently become an issue of significant national prominence of interest to all segments of society – even moving into the venture capital arena. APLU is uniquely positioned to make significant contributions to this national debate by helping our member institutions address issues of importance to the advancement and well-being of our nation. Having served as faculty and administrator at several member institutions, I view this position as the culmination of my prior experiences.

What motivates you to work in higher education?
The opportunity to improve lives, families, communities, and society in general through research, education, and service.

What’s the biggest change public university leaders can expect in 5-10 years?
More emphasis on accountability to legislators, and the public in general. Stiff competition from other sectors offering educational programs using non-traditional methods.

What is your favorite thing about living in DC?
It is a very livable city (to me), with lots of cultural activities with easily accessible local and national parks. It is also close to many other interesting cities and areas of interest.

What’s the last book you read?
George Orwell’s 1984

What was the last performance you attended?
Hamilton

What’s one thing people would never guess about you?
I used to weigh 265 lbs. as a teenager. As I was turning 20, I went on a diet and lost half my weight, going down to 132 lbs.