Robert Berney values Washington State University education and providing support for students in the School of Economic Sciences. He established this Fund in honor of his education and his 30-year career in Economics.
Robert began his education in the ROTC program in high school, which inspired him to join the Washington State College’s ROTC program studying Business Administration. There he first discovered his passion for economics. In 1954, Robert was commissioned in the Army where he served in the 82nd Airborne Division and was stationed in Italy. After his time in the military, Robert returned to school where he received his Master’s degree in Economics from Washington State College in 1960 and a PhD in Economics from the University of Wisconsin.
Returning to Washington State University in 1966, Robert taught macroeconomics, public finance, money, and banking in the Economics Department for both graduate and undergraduates. He retired in 2000 as a full professor. Robert ended his career working in the Federal Government in Washington D.C. as the Chief Economist for the U.S. Small Business Administration.
In Robert’s early years, he was active in the Outing Club, where he learned to ski and mountain climb. Robert has maintained his love for the outdoors and was an avid mountain climber and enthusiast. He also enjoys bicycling, kayaking, and skiing.
Award Requirements
The distributions from this fund shall be used for a fellowship to support a high-achieving graduate level student studying economics. Preference shall be given to students interested in macroeconomics, money, or banking.