TALLAHASSEE, Fl. — When Teresa L. Berger crosses the stage at Florida A&M University’s Spring 2025 Commencement, she won’t just be accepting a diploma—she’ll be exemplifying the power of lifelong learning. 

Berger, a 61-year-old great-grandmother, academic advisor and mentor, will receive her Master of Applied Social Sciences in public administration with a 3.9 GPA. She stands as a living example that dreams don’t expire—and determination doesn’t age. 

“As long as you are alive, you have a chance to make it better,” she said. “Life comes with opportunities to learn, evolve and enhance your efforts.” 

Berger’s decision to pursue a graduate degree wasn’t something she had to do—it was something she felt called to do. After her youngest child graduated from high school, she made the bold decision to return to school, starting at Tallahassee Community College, which she described as a turning point.  

Berger applied herself fully, earned academic honors and set her sights even higher. At the same time, she served as a statewide training consultant for the Florida Department of Child Support, helping professionals better serve families across the state. 

That experience, combined with a growing passion for education, eventually led her to Florida A&M University—not just as a student, but as a mentor. Now an academic advisor and recruiter for the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Berger supports students through their educational journeys, offering the same guidance and encouragement she once needed herself. 

“My role as a parent, a grandmother and now a great-grandmother has instilled in me an even deeper sense of legacy and responsibility,” she said. “I want my family to see that it’s never too late to pursue your goals—and that education is a powerful tool for personal growth and community impact.” 

She graduated summa cum laude from FAMU with a Bachelor of Science in political science and a minor in pre-law before returning to the Hill for her master’s degree.

“Plan it. Write it down. Make it plain,” she said. “Plan for contingencies or ‘what ifs.’ That’s how you stay grounded when life gets complicated.” 

After earning her bachelor’s degree, Berger immediately set her sights on her master’s. She enrolled in the M.A.S.S. program in public administration with a renewed sense of purpose—hoping to inspire nontraditional and first-generation students. 

“This journey wasn’t just for me,” Berger said. “It was for every student I’ve ever worked with who needed to see what persistence can look like.” 

Balancing her full-time university role with graduate studies, Berger remained committed to both her academics and her students. Whether presenting her capstone project or mentoring future engineers, she made every moment count. 

As graduation nears, her achievement resonates far beyond the classroom. As a great-grandmother, her success echoes through four generations. To her family, she is a beacon of what’s possible. To her students, she is proof that no barrier is insurmountable. 

“My core message is simple: never give up,” she said. “Embrace the power of connecting with your roots, contributing to your community and building legacies that last through generations.” 

Her path forward is fueled by passion. Berger is already planning her next moves—whether it’s managing her band, Tallahassee Nights Live!; supporting her nonprofit; running her bar and grill; or managing viral musical talent Joshua Williams. 

“My next chapter is defined by a desire to intertwine my passions and purpose,” she said. “I’m committed to pursuing joy, serving others and honoring my legacy.” 

For Berger, commencement is not a conclusion—it’s a continuation. Her journey proves that purpose has no expiration date, and when you lead with intention, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. 

Media Contact:

Ashley Flete
Senior Communications Specialist
ashley1.flete@famu.edu

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