In the heart of Barcelona, where rich culture and history blend with innovation and creativity, a remarkable legacy endures—the legacy of Bob and Cima Balser. From the 1960s to the early 1990s, the Balser family not only made Barcelona their home but also left an indelible mark on the city’s educational and creative landscapes. Visionaries who believed in the power of dreams, they co-founded one of the most prestigious international schools in Europe, the Benjamin Franklin International School (BFIS), while also establishing themselves as pioneers in the world of film and animation.
Founding Benjamin Franklin International School: A Vision for the Future
The idea for BFIS was born out of a profound belief in the importance of education and the need for an international school that could provide a nurturing, multicultural American academic environment for students from all over the world. In the early 1980s, when the Balsers, along with other families and teachers, laid the foundation for BFIS, they envisioned a school that would not only meet the academic needs of Barcelona’s international and local community but also foster global citizenship, tolerance, open-mindedness, and cultural understanding.
Thanks to their unwavering dedication, BFIS has evolved into a prestigious institution, renowned throughout Spain and Europe for its academic excellence, strong commitment to international education, and its inclusive, supportive environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. Thirty-eight years later, BFIS stands as a beacon of educational innovation, shaping the lives of countless students, many of whom have gone on to excel in various fields around the world.
They inspire and continue to inspire our community to embrace that same belief—that any dream is possible.
The Genius Behind Yellow Submarine
Perhaps Bob Balser is best known for his role as the animation director for the legendary 1968 British animated film Yellow Submarine, a feature that has become a pop culture phenomenon. Yellow Submarine was not just a film; it was a groundbreaking artistic achievement that blended music, art, and animation in ways the world had never seen. Bob Balser, alongside fellow director Jack Stokes, helped bring the iconic visual world of The Beatles to life, imbuing the film with its unique psychedelic style.
Yellow Submarine broke new ground in animation, pushing the boundaries of what animated storytelling could achieve. Balser’s contribution to this monumental project cemented his place in animation history, making him one of the few American animators to play such a pivotal role in a British production at the time. His imaginative direction and passion for animation continue to inspire animators today.
Drawings of Benjamin Franklin by Bob Balser
A Deep Mark on Our Identity
Cima epitomized a life richly lived, immersing herself in the pleasures of gastronomy, art, culture, and cinema. Her exceptional writing skills allowed her to document her adventures through letters and maintain a detailed journal throughout her life. As a dedicated member of the Benjamin Franklin International School (BFIS) community, she volunteered countless hours to the inaugural Operations team during the school’s early years. Notably, she conceived the school’s name, leaving an indelible mark on its identity. Her generosity, insatiable curiosity, and sharp sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Cima’s contributions during the formative years of BFIS were instrumental in shaping the school and community spirit. Her legacy continues to inspire the BFIS community, embodying the values of curiosity, generosity, and humor that she so vividly displayed.
Unwavering Commitment to Creativity and Education
The Balsers’ ability to weave together creativity and education was at the heart of their extraordinary legacy. Their passion for nurturing the minds of future generations through BFIS was matched by their love for artistic expression, which they brought to life through Pegbar Productions. Both endeavors have had a profound impact on the Barcelona community and beyond, leaving a legacy that continues to shape education and entertainment.
As we honor Bob and Cima Balser, we celebrate their extraordinary contributions to education and creativity, and we are reminded of the lasting power of visionaries who dare to dream. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of learners and creators, reminding us all that with passion and dedication, anything is possible.
Bob Balser passed away in 2016, followed by Cima Balser in 2019. Their son, Trevel Balser, graduated from BFIS in 1989. He lives in the United States.
BFIS Founding Families
The Balser Family played a pivotal role in paving the way to make this dream a reality. However, we must also acknowledge the contributions of other families who served as essential pillars for the school’s growth through their enthusiasm and unwavering dedication:
- The Ortiz Family
- The Singleton Family
- The Balser Family
- The Busto Family
- The Stibitz Family
- The Hernández Family
- The McCann Family
- The Moreno Family
- William Singleton,
- The Nordström family and
- The Pastor Family
Thank you to all of them and so many others who supported the dream and worked hard to make it happen!
