H. Viscount “Berky” Nelson was a mentor, mediator and role model for generations of students during his four-decade career at UCLA.  He began his career at UCLA in the late 1960s as director of campus programs and activities during a turbulent period for campuses nationwide.  

 

Through the years, Berky could be seen at many student protests, a calming presence at students’ side. Throughout his long career at UCLA, Berky, who was the director of the Center for Student Programming for many years, was the trusted adviser that student leaders, including a long succession of student government leaders, turned to for guidance.  

 

For generations of UCLA student athletes, Berky also took on the role of adviser and

confidante.   Easing their transition to student life, he helped pave their way to success,

both on the field and in the classroom.  

 

A scholar of American history, Berky taught classes for the Ralph J. Bunche Center for

African-American Studies and the Interdepartmental Program in Afro-American Studies.

He was also the author of several books on African-American history and leadership.  

 

He retired from UCLA in 2014 as director of fraternity and sorority relations. 

His wife, Joan, was an associate dean of students and worked at UCLA for 30 years.

 UBAA and others touched by Berky's life have united to create a legacy in raising

scholarship funds to be bestowed to deserving African American incoming freshmen

majoring in African-American studies in Berky's honor. 

 

Please make an impact by planning an annual gift and making a contribution.

 

You can contribute your tax-deductible donation online:     

 

 

 

 

 

On the comment section, please type Berky Nelson.

 

Or if you like to write a check to support this effort, please make it payable to:

 

The California Community Foundation

 

With "UBAA Legacy Scholarships - Berky Nelson" in the memo line and mail to:

 

UBAA

PO Box 83422

Los Angeles, CA 90083