Melissa Berke

Biography

Dr. Melissa Berke serves as Associate Dean for the College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.   In this position she oversees academic affairs including faculty reappointment, promotion and tenure, curricular matters, and assists with college operations. In addition to her work in the college, Dr. Berke serves on numerous committees at the university level including the general education committee, the judicial board, and initiatives in diversity, equity, access, and inclusion.

Prior to her role in administration, Dr. Berke served as the first female and first chair of color in the UNO music department where she also taught undergraduate and graduate courses in music education.  Her specialization in early childhood/elementary music made her a sought-after clinician at many national and regional conferences.  Dr. Berke facilitated the transition of the Nebraska Kodály Certification program from Nebraska Wesleyan University and served as its director of the from 2011-2015.

Dr. Berke currently serves on the Committee for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging for the International Council of Fine Arts Deans, a participant in the AICAD BIPOC Academic Leadership Institute of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art & Design and is a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission. 

She received both her Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music Education degrees from Drake University, and her PhD from The University of Arizona.

Research and Creative Activity Interests

Education

Scheduled Teaching