Elder Ernest L. Bridges Jr., Ph.D.

Elder Ernest L. Bridges Jr., Ph.D.

Elder Ernie Bridges' motivation as an Elder is formed and informed by a lifetime of learning. It embodies the essence of his being and serves as a foundation rooted in African-centered principles (MA'AT), upon which he bases his actions, reactions, thoughts, words, and speech. His leadership ethic is clear: Educate. Advocate. Empower. Impact.

He is a long-time educator in African American Studies, having taught at Fullerton College (retired) and California State University, Fullerton (retired). While at Fullerton College, he served as Faculty Advisor and Advisor/Mentor to several campus organizations, including the Black Student Union (BSU), and as campus Founder/Coordinator of the Umoja Community. He was also an instructor of African American History for the 100 Black Men of Orange County and an advisory board member to the "Passport to the Future Program."

His background includes many years as a Human Relations Manager for several Fortune 100 Companies, and he has served as a board member for the California Umoja Community Education Foundation, the Western Region Council on Black American Affairs (WRCBAA), and the G.R.E.E.N. Foundation. He also served as President of the Southern California Council on Black American Affairs (SCCBAA).

Elder Bridges holds a bachelor's degree in education, an MBA with an emphasis in Industrial Relations, and a Ph.D. with an emphasis in Religious Studies. His guiding principle: All is mind, and the universe is a mental and spiritual creation.