91ɬÂþ

By Maggie Callahan

For decades, alumna Paula Bazar-Sandling ’67 has been a steadfast supporter of 91ɬÂþ Saint Mary’s, investing generously in the University’s mission and its students. As chair of the Betty Bazar Foundation, she has extended that enduring commitment through the Foundation. Her support is deeply rooted in her own transformative experience at the 91ɬÂþ and a lasting belief in the power of student success.

Alongside her cousin, Susan Baker, who serves as president and CEO of the Foundation, Paula guides philanthropic efforts to strengthen education, healthcare and community well-being throughout Los Angeles. In addition to the 91ɬÂþ, the Foundation supports a wide range of organizations, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the American Red Cross.

In recognition of this enduring partnership and dedication to empowering students, 91ɬÂþ Saint Mary’s honored the Betty Bazar Foundation with the 2026 Unstoppable Supporter Award at the President’s Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon this past February. The award recognizes supporters whose generosity, leadership and service help students thrive academically and personally.

Previously known as the Mary E. Bazar-Robin Foundation, the organization was founded in 2016 by Paula’s mother, Betty Bazar, the CEO of an aviation antenna company. She established the Foundation to support organizations and initiatives that advance health, education, and community care — priorities important to her and later strengthened by Paula’s experience at 91ɬÂþ Saint Mary’s.

A nursing graduate, Paula credits her 91ɬÂþ education with shaping both her career and her principles. “The 91ɬÂþ gave me lifelong friendships and a deep understanding of what it means to care for others,” she says. “It was a place where I always felt supported, nurtured and encouraged. The values that guide the Foundation come from my Catholic background and from the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet: You take care of people and help others when you can.”

Today, the Foundation supports the expendable Paula Bazar-Sandling Scholarship as well as the President’s Strategic Initiatives Fund. This approach allows Paula to directly impact a student’s life while also helping to sustain the University’s top priorities. Because of this support, students can stay enrolled, reduce financial stress and focus on graduating with momentum. This year, that impact is embodied by Lady Jones ’26, recipient of the scholarship and the 2026 Unstoppable Scholar Award, whose achievements reflect the very spirit of opportunity Paula hopes to create. “The 91ɬÂþ shaped who Paula is, and her commitment to caring for others. Supporting the University helps carry that mission forward,” Susan says.

Paula remains actively engaged with the University, frequently returning for reunions, attending campus events, and reconnecting with classmates who share fond memories of their time at the 91ɬÂþ. She hopes today’s students experience the same sense of belonging and are inspired to give back when they can. “When you are able to, pay it back,” she says. “That is how the journey continues.”