Though his presidency of Pacific Union College, from 1943 to 1945, was short in terms of years, Henry J. Klooster, formerly president of Emmanuel Missionary College, played a dynamic leadership role in advancing “Our College on the Mountain.”

President Klooster strongly urged the enlargement of the advanced study programs for teachers in order to build up a corps of instructors with doctoral degrees. He also planned for the accreditation of the college with the state as a means of strengthening the teacher training program. The needs of Hawaiian students for college training in their own islands led to formulation of plans for the affiliation of P.U.C. with Hawaiian Mission Academy. Plans were also initiated for the construction of a new library and an elementary school as the first step in a general construction of the campus.

Renowned for the excellence and the frequency of his chapel addresses, President Klooster was a leader of great ability who left a deep imprint on the college. Great sadness prevailed when in 1945 he suddenly resigned his presidency.