Dr. Barbara A. Mahaffie: A Life of Purpose, Grace, and Enduring Legacy

In a world where accolades and accomplishments often take center stage, Barbara A. Mahaffie embodied a quieter, yet no less extraordinary, kind of success. She was a dignified educator, a devoted mentor, a generous philanthropist, and a woman who lived with purpose and poise. Her life’s work—spanning nearly four decades in education—was not just about imparting knowledge but about shaping lives, instilling confidence, and leaving a lasting legacy that will continue for generations.

Born on October 30, 1940, Barbara dedicated her life to education. She earned her PhD from Claremont Graduate University in 1989, an achievement she never flaunted but instead used as a platform to inspire and uplift others. Beginning her teaching career in 1963 at Western High School and later at Anaheim High School, Barbara quickly became more than just a teacher to her students—she was a guiding force. Whether through her words of encouragement, her perfectly tailored suits, or her impeccable sense of grace, she exemplified the character of a true educator. She taught during a time when women’s career opportunities were more limited, but teaching, she often said, was always her calling.

Barbara had a gift for making people feel seen. She often left personalized notes for her students, offering encouragement that extended far beyond the classroom. Whether it was a simple message before a big test or a thoughtful note before a school event, these small yet powerful gestures showed her students that she truly cared. It was this attention to detail and unwavering support that made her such a beloved teacher and mentor.

Her commitment to education did not end with her retirement in 2001. She transitioned from K-12 education to higher academia, working with English and Social Studies candidates in CGU’s Teacher Education program. There, she continued to shape the next generation of educators, reinforcing the belief that great teachers lead with both intellect and heart. She was particularly devoted to mentoring future teachers of character, those who would bring integrity, passion, and dedication into their classrooms.

Barbara was a woman of deep humility. Despite her countless accomplishments, she never sought recognition. She spoke modestly about her life, so much so that even her cousin was unaware she had earned a PhD. She believed in action over acclaim, and her final gift spoke volumes: over $1 million to her CGU endowment for SES PhD students. Her generosity ensures that passionate educators will continue to benefit from the support they need to make a difference in the world.

Outside of academia, Barbara was a lover of history, an enthusiastic volunteer, and a woman who saw beauty in the past. She spent time giving historical tours at Rancho Los Alamitos, where her family’s connection spanned generations. Her father, Ivan “Happy” Mahaffie, worked as a carpenter for the Bryant family, and Barbara honored that legacy by donating treasured artifacts—among them a beloved childhood doll, gifted to her by the Rancho’s third owner. Just as she preserved pieces of history, she preserved the hearts and minds of those she touched.

Barbara had a delightful way of weaving joy and elegance into her life. She was always impeccably dressed, often color-coordinating entire outfits from head to toe—pink days meant pink everything, green days meant green. She was simultaneously dignified and warm, composed yet playful. She laughed easily, found the good in all, and shared coffee and wisdom with her dear friend and former teaching partner, DeLacy Ganley. During their time co-teaching English and Social Studies teacher candidates at CGU from around 1999 to 2005, they met every other Saturday to support aspiring educators in finding their way into the profession. Later, after Barbara stopped teaching at CGU, they continued to meet at that same coffee shop in Long Beach, though less frequently—perhaps every four months. DeLacy fondly recalls how, when she became interim dean of the school in 2018, those cherished lunches with Barbara provided encouragement and reassurance, strengthening her confidence during that pivotal time.

Though she had no children of her own, Barbara nurtured countless lives. Her influence extended beyond her classroom walls, beyond the schools she enriched, and beyond the endowments she left behind. Her legacy is imprinted on the hearts of those she mentored, on the educators she inspired, and on the students who found in her a source of unwavering encouragement.

Barbara A. Mahaffie’s life was a masterclass in grace, kindness, and generosity. She left the world a better place, not through grand gestures but through the everyday acts of love and support that defined her. She proved that true legacy is not about what we achieve for ourselves but about what we give to others. And in that, Barbara gave everything.