To commemorate the life and work of Bernard (“Bernie”) L. Berkowitz (1927-2023), an endowed annual award program has been established to encourage future generations of public servants who are demonstrating characteristics exhibited by Bernie Berkowitz in his career in Baltimore. The program is administered by the Center for Social Science Scholarship.

Born in 1927 in New York City to immigrant parents from rural Hungary, Bernie grew up in working class neighborhoods in the Bronx. His family’s experience with unemployment in the 1930’s was the basis of a lifelong commitment to social justice and economic development. He attended New York City public schools; graduated cum laude from C.C.N.Y. with a major in economics, and received a Master’s in Urban Planning from Columbia University. He served in the United States Army with occupation forces in Japan and Korea.

In all of his endeavors, Bernie exemplified “no nonsense” intellectual rigor, progressive social thinking, and creative thinking about practical solutions. He aspired to improve the Baltimore community by increasing economic opportunities. He believed in transcending divisions – bringing together people of different social and economic backgrounds. He is fondly remembered for his striving to “do the right thing”, always with a sense of humor and kindness.

Award recipients will be selected annually by UMBC faculty in the Center for Social Science Scholarship based on students’ demonstrated interest in and commitment to planning and economic  development of the Baltimore community. Candidates should reflect the interests, values and character of Bernie Berkowitz. Preference will be given to those interested in public service or not-for-profit careers.  

Undergraduate and graduate students are invited to apply by April 1, 2025.