Bernstein’s commitment to giving back is deeply rooted in his family’s experience. His grandfather immigrated to the U.S. through Ellis Island with very little, and his father received scholarships that allowed him to attend the University of Chicago and Harvard, ultimately earning a PhD in Economics. My father “couldn’t have done it unless alumni and parents who came before him had made generous contributions to establish these scholarships,” Bernstein said. “And so my dad – who became quite successful – always told us that it’s important to give back.” 

His own education at Sidwell Friends in Washington, D.C., also shaped his views on the value of independent schools: “My brothers and I feel that Sidwell Friends was perhaps the most important segment of our education because we went on to really good colleges and grad schools. That foundation started with our independent school experience.”

When Bernstein and his late wife, Jayusia, moved to Miami from Dallas, they chose the city only after finding a first-class school for their younger son: Ransom Everglades School. From the moment they arrived, they felt welcomed and included by the Ransom Everglades community. Bernstein quickly became involved as a volunteer, serving as a trustee and representing the advancement committee. In his role, he worked with fellow volunteers and staff to elevate the annual fund as a top priority.  

He emphasized the importance of annual giving, noting, “You can’t underestimate the incremental contribution that alumni and parents make in providing those extra resources.” 

Reflecting on distinctive RE experiences, Bernstein recalled the ninth-grade Outward Bound expedition through the Everglades, an experience that continues to this day. Marc missed the trip because he was sick, but “his mother, Jayusia, told Marc that he had to go on an Outward Bound trip before graduation … or else!”  
When his junior year arrived, they identified a “parent/child expedition, which meant I also would be climbing mountains in North Carolina,” Bernstein remembered. “We both went and had an extraordinarily positive experience, affirming the wisdom of the RE Outward Bound requirement.” 

Understanding the life-changing power of education and experiences like these, Alan and Jayusia also established the Bernstein Family Endowment Scholarship Fund, while continuing their annual contributions to The Fund for RE. Their generosity has helped RE expand its financial aid program, which now provides over $8.3 million in financial aid and tuition remission annually – ensuring that talented students from all backgrounds have access to an RE education. 

“Gifting to our independent schools, colleges and universities,” he said, “is absolutely central in keeping them in a position with adequate resources to deliver a world-class education.”  

Bernstein has witnessed the transformation of RE over time, attributing its success to the school’s generous and engaged community; dedicated leadership, faculty and coaches; a commitment to diversity; and a strong mission. He enjoys staying up to date on the school’s happenings by reading the RE Log magazine and seeing what today’s students are accomplishing. His son, Marc, remains involved as a class volunteer and recently joined the RE Alumni Board. 

Reflecting on what makes RE special, Bernstein shared, “The connections you make at Ransom Everglades, the education you receive, the experience you have really make a significant difference.”