​​​Bruce D. Varner​

Community Leader/Businessman

California State University, San Bernardino

Bruce D. Varner is the model of a community leader, volunteer and businessman. He's also been an enthusiastic supporter of higher education in the Inland Empire and throughout California. A highly respected attorney, community activist and philanthropist, Mr. Varner is committed to the mission of public universities and their role in providing higher education and other significant contributions to the community. He received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Santa Barbara and his Juris Doctor from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law.

Mr. Varner has been a pivotal facet of the Cal State San Bernardino family for many years, including membership on the CSUSB Foundation Board of Governors. Mr. Varner was one of the financial founders of the Coyote athletics program, helping to fund the development of the university's athletic facilities, including Coussoulis Arena. He and his wife, Nancy, also established one of the original athletic scholarships at CSUSB in honor of his parents, Ann and Doyle Varner. Mr. Varner received the CSUSB Arrowhead Distinguished Executive Officer Award in 2004.

Mr. Varner is a senior partner with the law firm Varner & Brandt LLP where he specializes in general business, corporate and transactional law. His support of higher education is seen in his service as a regent of the University of California and a board member of the University of California, Riverside Foundation, and past commissioner of the California Postsecondary Education Commission. In addition, he serves on the boards of directors for the Stater Bros. companies, Super Rx Inc., Security Bank of California, Matich Corporation and the National Orange Show, and is a member of the Service Academy Review Board 41st Congressional District.

As passionate community advocates, Bruce and Nancy Varner have been active leaders in the Inland Empire for many years, providing much-needed guidance and support to local non-profit organizations. They have been tireless advocates for K-12 and higher education, as well as other groups and causes that benefit the community. He has served as board member and chairman of the San Bernardino Economic Development Council, and is past president and board member of the San Bernardino Boys and Girls Club, San Bernardino Jaycees and Inland Empire Economic Partnership.

In recognition of his many outstanding accomplishments and extensive contributions to the university and the community, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, San Bernardino are proud to confer upon Bruce D. Varner the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws.