Denmark, S.C., – Voorhees University proudly announces the appointment of Dr. John M. Berry as the new Vice President for University Advancement. With more than two decades of distinguished leadership in philanthropic consultation and institutional advancement, Dr. Berry will lead efforts to elevate the university’s fundraising strategy, alumni engagement, and community partnerships.
Dr. Berry brings a proven track record of success in both higher education and nonprofit management. He has held key advancement roles at several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), including serving as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Lincoln University (MO), South Carolina State University, West Virginia State University, and Florida Memorial University. He also served as Director of Development at Winston-Salem State University.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Berry to Voorhees University,” said President Ronnie Hopkins. “His deep commitment to HBCUs, vast experience in fundraising and strategic advancement, and genuine passion for building vibrant campus communities make him a powerful addition to our executive leadership team. His expertise will help move Voorhees to new heights.”
Dr. Berry’s professional impact extends beyond the campus. As President and CEO of Tri County Head Start in Waterloo, Iowa, he managed a $10 million annual budget and successfully raised over $500,000 in private donations. Most recently, he secured a $250,000 grant as a consulting grant writer for Arkansas Baptist State University.
In every role, Dr. Berry has focused on aligning campus growth with external stakeholder engagement, supporting faculty development, enhancing academic innovation, and fostering a culture of philanthropy. His leadership has consistently resulted in expanded donor networks and stronger institutional impact.
“I am honored to join the Voorhees University family,” said Dr. Berry. “Voorhees has a powerful legacy and a bold vision for the future. I look forward to advancing the university’s mission through meaningful partnerships, transformative giving, and deeper community engagement.”
Dr. Berry holds an associate degree in biology from New York State University at Farmingdale, a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from Southern University at New Orleans, and a doctorate in Philanthropy and Leadership from the Union Institute and University. He also earned a Certification in Fund Raising Management (CFRM) from Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
He is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and an alumnus of several prestigious leadership programs including the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Millennium Leadership Initiative (2008), Harvard University’s Management and Leadership in Education Program (2009), and Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College Summer Institute for Institutional Advancement.
Dr. Berry is also an engaged civic leader, having served on numerous nonprofit boards including the Waterloo Public Library, Cedar Falls Symphony, Cedar Valley United Way (Board Chair), and the Waterloo Schools Foundation.