During his nearly 20 years as an administrator at San Bernardino Valley College, Dr. John Bancroft remained dedicated to ensuring all students received a quality and equitable education.

He arrived at SBVC in 1969, first serving as director of counseling and later becoming dean of student development. One of his responsibilities was overseeing adult reentry, and he loved watching these returning students blossom.

“So many adults came back and discovered they were a lot smarter than they had ever given themselves credit for,” he said.

A World War II veteran, Bancroft spent four months in a French prisoner-of-war camp, which changed his outlook on life. After this experience, “I became a pacifist and worked with peace groups,” he said. 

Along with his late wife, he established the Dr. John and Elaine Bancroft Peace & Justice Scholarship in 1988, one year after his retirement. This award is given to SBVC students about to embark on careers that eliminate conflict and promote justice, like family counseling and teaching.

At 101, Bancroft is the oldest living donor to the SBVC Foundation. His generosity has benefited dozens of students over the last three decades, and the Bancroft Peace & Justice Scholarship is a testament to his fondness for SBVC and its mission.

“The campus looks different, but Valley continues to serve the population it was created to serve,” he said. “It does that as well as ever.” 

John Trudell

Hall of Fame Alumnus John Bancroft