School of Theatre and Dance is excited to receive a new endowment in the name of Dr. Roy Berko, an esteemed Kent State alumnus. This endowment will create a scholarship fund for undergraduate and graduate theatre students participating in Porthouse Theatre who demonstrate excellence in directing and teaching. The scholarship will support the recipient’s tuition and fees, room and board and any travel costs that support their academic success.
Dr. Roy Berko graduated from Kent State University in 1955 with a degree from the College of Education Health and Human Services. While a student, Dr. Berko served as vice president of the Student Council, junior class president, Blue Key National Honor Society, All University Social Committee Chair, and Chestnut Burr “Outstanding Senior.” As an alumnus, he has served as a member of the Board of the Alumni Association. Dr. Berko acted for many years, appearing in more than 16 plays, eight TV commercials and three films. He also has directed more than 30 productions.
In his professional career, Dr. Berko is a college professor of communication, theatre and psychology, the author of thirty-eight books and a consultant. He is a member of The Cleveland Critics Circle, The American Critics Association and Dance Critics Association. In 2013, he was selected as the Top Midwest Editor/Reviewer by BroadwayWorld.com. Dr. Berko is a certified Life Coach, Reiki practitioner, and nationally certified Hypnotherapist. He has also been granted Diplomate Status in Professional Counseling by the International Academy of Behavioral Medicine, Counseling and Psychotherapy. Another achievement is his election to membership on the Elyria Board of Education, where he served as President. He has been inducted into the Wall of Achievement at Charles F. Brush High School by the Alumni Association.
Roy has had an enormous effect on the many people he has met throughout his life. As a gift for this 90th birthday, his family, Eric Berko and Marcia Warren, created this endowment in his name. Friends and family of Roy Berko will continue to contribute to the endowment each year. To make a donation to the Dr. Roy Berko Endowed Commemorative Scholarship go to https://flashes.givetokent.org/.