Bertice Berry Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Dr. Bertice Berry's journey from modest beginnings to becoming a renowned sociologist, author, and speaker is a testament to resilience and determination. Born in 1960 in Wilmington, Delaware, she was one of seven children raised by a single mother facing significant challenges. Despite being told by a high school teacher that she was "not college material," Berry's perseverance led her to graduate magna cum laude from Jacksonville University in 1982, where she was awarded the President's Cup for leadership. She continued her academic pursuits at Kent State University, earning both a master's and a Ph.D. in sociology by the age of 26. During her tenure as a sociology and statistics professor at Kent State, Berry became known for incorporating humor into her lectures to address complex topics like racism and sexism, making her classes highly popular among students. This innovative approach paved the way for her transition into entertainment and public speaking. Between 1991 and 1994, she received accolades including Comedian of the Year, Campus Lecturer of the Year, and Campus Entertainer of the Year. Berry also hosted her own nationally syndicated talk show, "The Bertice Berry Show," and appeared on programs such as "The Oprah Winfrey Show," "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," and ABC's "20/20." As an author, Berry has penned both fiction and nonfiction works. Her novels, including "Redemption Song," "The Haunting of Hip Hop," and "Jim & Louella's Homemade Heart-Fix Remedy," have been praised for their engaging narratives that intertwine entertainment with insightful commentary. Her memoir, "I'm On My Way, But Your Foot Is On My Head," offers a candid look at overcoming life's challenges. In 2011, she released "A Year to Wellness and Other Weight Loss Secrets," detailing her personal journey toward health and wellness. Beyond her professional achievements, Berry is deeply committed to community involvement. She has donated all royalties from her books to support organizations assisting families in transition, funding scholarships, and providing resources to low-income households. In recognition of her contributions, Savannah Technical College dedicated the Bertice Berry Change & Transformation Classrooms in her honor in 2011. Currently residing in Savannah, Georgia, Berry is the proud mother of five adopted children and cherishes her role as a grandmother. She remains an active figure in her community, embodying her belief that "when you walk with purpose, you collide with destiny."