Elvera B. Berry

Elvera Berry completed a German major and a double minor in Music and Spanish at Roberts Wesleyan in 1963 and joined the faculty on September 1, 1964. Six decades later, she is the longest-serving faculty member in Roberts Wesleyan University's history.

She has served under eight different presidents. Throughout her remarkable career, she has shaped countless minds and pushed the boundaries of her field, leaving an indelible mark on both education and research.

Dr. Berry received her Ph.D. in higher education and philosophy/rhetoric from SUNY Buffalo, M.A. in rhetoric from SUNY Brockport, and M.A. in linguistics and German from the University of Rochester. She was appointed dean of the School of Arts and Humanities in August 2022.

She has taught communication studies, rhetorical theory, German literature and oral interpretation to countless students. Her dedication to academic excellence has influenced virtually every program, spanning teaching, curriculum development, and faculty mentorship. While her impact on the communication major is undeniable, her commitment to quality education has also shaped numerous other areas. Berry faithfully gives to the institution as a Roberts Circle member.

Over her sixty years, “Dr. Mrs.” has taught over 13,000 students, and more than thirty different courses, and is best known as a dedicated and exacting teacher. Her commitment to students includes life-long mentoring and the invitation to full participation in professional academic conferences. She is affectionately known as “Dr. Mrs.” by alumni and current students.

Specialty Areas:

• Communication Studies
• Rhetorical Theory & Criticism
• Oral Interpretation
• Organizational Communication & Leadership
• Teaching & Learning
• Kenneth Burke studies

Research Interests:

• Rhetoric of M.L. King, C.S. Lewis, B.T. Roberts, Andrew Young, Kenneth Burke
• Educational Philosophy and Pedagogy
• Rhetoric in race, religion, gender, literature, and politics