Robert Rogers, CMC Alum, Dean of Admissions, Dies

Robert Rogers CM ’52, Claremont McKenna College dean of admissions from 1957 to 1990, died on Oct. 20 at age 81.After a stint in the Navy, Rogers became an integral member of the Claremont college community. He attended CMC—Claremont Men’s College at the time—and received an MA in education from Claremont Graduate University. He worked in the joint CMC and Harvey Mudd admissions office and eventually became the senior associate dean of admissions at CMC. He also aided in choosing the first three Pitzer College classes.“He was a great guy to work with,” said Anthony Fucaloro, a joint science professor at CMC.Fucaloro recalled traveling around the country with Rogers to make admissions presentations at high schools.“He was a very confident recruiter. He really got the job done,” said Fucaloro.Between completing his own education and beginning his career at CMC, Rogers was an infantry communications officer in Korea and taught sixth grade at Claremont’s Sycamore Elementary School.Rogers will also be remembered for his enthusiasm for athletics. He played basketball for CMC as a student, and served on the CMS Hall of Fame Committee after his retirement in 1990.Rogers was also passionate about Meals On Wheels, a national program that delivers meals to seniors and others who cannot easily go grocery shopping or cook. He volunteered frequently with the Claremont chapter of the organization.Rogers is survived by his wife and two children, and his dedication to education and community service will undoubtedly be missed by many at the Claremont Colleges.“I was always fond of Bob,” said Fucaloro. “And I wasn’t unique.”