Moody College Honors President Bernhardt

Emerson College President Jay Bernhardt headed back to Austin, Texas, last month, where he was honored by Moody College of Communication at the University of Texas for his eight years as dean before coming to Boston.

Bernhardt was one of two recipients of the Robert C. Jeffrey College Benefactor Awards, named for the third dean of Moody College, presented to people “who have given generously to the college through their time or resources.”

During his time at Moody College, Bernhardt helped raise more the $130 million, hired 50 new faculty members, and assisted in raising the four-year graduation rate. He established a number of centers, institutes and programs focused on cutting edge research, spearheaded the college’s new Strategic Plan, and built a strong sense of community within Moody, according to the college.

The college also launched the Jay M. Bernhardt Award for Staff Excellence during the ceremony. That award goes to a staff member “who has gone above and beyond in their duties to make a significant impact at Moody College.