Jerry Divers

When Jerry Divers’ wife Jean first pitched the idea of sending their sons Alan and Brett to Berkeley, he scoffed at the idea, suggesting that they would be fine at their neighborhood school. “My wife wanted to give our sons the best education possible, to best prepare them to live more enriching lives. I would have sent them to public school just to save money,” he recalls.

Needless to say, Jean’s sound reasoning prevailed and Alan and Brett went on to become proud alumni of Berkeley (classes of 1983 and 1985 respectively) and Brett is also a parent of two of his own Berkeley alumni. “When Alan was in first grade, the Board Chair telephoned and was in the process of asking me to serve on the board. Overhearing our conversation, my wife exclaimed, ‘Tell them yes!’”

Through the years, Jerry’s involvement at Berkeley, much like his children’s education, flourished. Jerry was an active parent and volunteer at the school, serving in various leadership roles including trustee, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Trustee Emeritus—with many committee leadership roles in between.

His years as a parent and volunteer made him realize just how correct his wife was in regard to the excellent education his children received at Berkeley and how important it was for the couple to be involved.

“Over the years, I saw the positive impact Berkeley had on my sons, and I felt an obligation to give back to the school that had done so much for them.” 

Inspired by this realization, Jerry added language in his estate plans to create a legacy gift honoring his late wife by establishing the Jean Bacon Divers Scholarship. Scholarships will be awarded to conscientious students who have exhibited high moral character.

“Let’s help sustain this fine institution for others in the future,” he explained. “I want to help keep tuitions at a reasonable amount so more can afford them, and let’s build a scholarship fund for students to enjoy the Berkeley Experience who otherwise could not attend.”