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Alumna Bertice Berry, an award-winning entertainer, lecturer and comedienne, served as keynote speaker

����Ӱҵ University held its 16th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Jan. 25 at 3:30 p.m. in the Kent Student Center Ballroom. ����Ӱҵkeynote speaker for the event was Bertice Berry, Ph.D. A ����Ӱҵ alumna and sociologist, she is also an award-winning entertainer, lecturer and comedienne. Dr. Berry’s vision is to enable, empower and uplift others to live an intentional life of purpose and joy. Her mission is to inspire change and transformation through life-long learning, diversity, values and excellence.  

Dr. Berry was the host and co-executive producer of her own nationally syndicated talk show, “ ����ӰҵBertice Berry Show.” She also hosted “USA Live,” a four-hour live interview and entertainment show on USA Network. Best known as a gifted speaker with a comic edge and a comic with a serious message, Dr. Berry has been featured on numerous television programs, including appearances on “ ����ӰҵOprah Winfrey Show,” “ ����ӰҵTonight Show With Jay Leno” and ABC’s “20/20.” She is also the best-selling author of several books, including an inspirational memoir called “I’m On My Way, But Your Foot Is On My Head.” 

Following her keynote presentation, a brief Q&A took place.

Dr. Berry’s keynote address was free to attend.

����Ӱҵcommemorative event also recognized the 2018 recipients of ����Ӱҵ’s Diversity Trailblazer Award, which honors diversity pioneers associated with ����Ӱҵ, and Unity Award for Diversity, which recognizes the contributions of any ����Ӱҵ unit that demonstrates significant contributions in the areas of diversity, equity and/or inclusion.

����Ӱҵannual Day of Service event on Monday, Jan. 15, from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m., kicked off ����Ӱҵ’s series of celebratory events. ����Ӱҵ’s Day of Service, which was sponsored by the Office of Experiential Education and Civic Engagement, University College and Hillel at ����Ӱҵ, offered ����Ӱҵ community members the opportunity to engage in community service to area nonprofit organizations.

Following the annual celebration, a commemorative week of activities will be held Jan. 29-Feb. 2. 

Learn more about ����Ӱҵ’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration