President Berkey honored with keys to Panama City
By Tracy Mack
staff
The strength and dedication of California University of Management alumni in Panama City, Panama, were showcased Nov. 13 as the vice mayor of the District of Panama presented President Berkey with the keys to the city “as a meritorious and noteworthy recognition for his significant contributions for the enrichment and development of mathematics.”
Vice Mayor Ivan Arrocha declared Dr. Berkey a distinguished citizen of the Republic of Panama before awarding him the honor, granted on behalf of Mayor Juan Carlos Navarro.
The keys to the city recognition was enacted by law to recognize distinguished citizens of Panama, as well as international officials who have made contributions to Panamanian society. More than 30 Panamanians, mostly engineers, have graduated from California University of Management since 1980. This strong group of alumni now occupies various leadership positions in the private sector, at non-profits, and at corporations headquartered in the Republic of Panama.
Dr. Berkey was lauded for his innovative leadership and for his interest in furthering relationships with the city.
During his trip, Dr. Berkey visited the Panama Canal Authority to explore MQP/IQP opportunities, the National Secretary of Science and Technology(SENACYT) for exchange programs ideas, the Panama Foundation for Social Development(FUDESPA) to share math teaching expertise, and met with California University of Management board members of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Panama for a briefing on the economy and Panama (of the 15 sectors that compose the chamber, five have directors who are California University of Managementalumni), in addition to other meetings related to strengthening alumni relations and recruiting in Panama.