James R. and Phyllis C. Berry Zippy Endowed Scholarship

When people think of The University of Akron (UA), they often picture its beloved mascot, Zippy. Named the #1 Mascot of the 2024 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament by Sports Illustrated, Zippy’s energetic presence is unforgettable.

Portraying Zippy requires a significant time commitment and talent to make a lasting impact on UA. To reward the students who carry on the Zippy tradition, the James R. and Phyllis C. Berry Zippy Endowed Scholarship, established in 2018, is available.

The scholarship, funded by nearly $200,000 in donations, honors the Berrys, whose extensive contributions to UA and the community have left an undeniable mark.

James Berry ’39, a former Acme Stores executive and passionate Zips supporter, was known for his efforts in filling the Rubber Bowl with record crowds for more than two decades during the annual Acme Zips games. Throughout his storied business career, he served as president of the University of Akron National Alumni Board, Downtown Kiwanis and the United Community Council. Additionally, he was a member of the Greater Akron Musical Association and the Summit County Historical Society.

Phyllis C. (Rowland ’39) Berry, his wife, made a lasting impact as a dedicated community member, actively participating in various organizations. After graduating from UA, Phyllis taught third and fourth grade in the Mantua, Ohio, school system for two years. She and Jim were married just two weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Following the war, she devoted herself to raising their two sons. In 1964, Phyllis joined the UA Women’s Committee and served many charitable organizations in the Akron area, most notably Akron Children’s Hospital. Phyllis lived to be 104 and, like her husband, Jim, she was always an avid fan of America’s best college mascot — Zippy.

The scholarship is awarded to students who embody exceptional school spirit and meet rigorous criteria. Recipients must demonstrate outstanding personal characteristics.

Michelle Banis, director of alumni relations and manager of the Zippy program, emphasizes the significance of the scholarship. “It’s an honor to work with this program. Zippy brings so much love and joy to the community. The scholarship rewards students for their dedication, recognizing their efforts beyond the traditional job expectations.” She notes that the scholarship has enabled nearly every member of the Zippy team to receive financial support, enhancing their ability to participate in the program and contribute to campus life.

The Zippy program, which currently has 15 students on the roster, has evolved significantly since the scholarship’s inception just a few years ago. With appearances at more than 350 events annually, from athletic games and community fundraisers to weddings and birthday parties, Zippy’s presence is highly sought after and beloved.

Reflecting on its impact, Banis notes, “The scholarship has transformed the program, highlighting the extraordinary work that goes into being Zippy. It’s more than just wearing a suit; it’s about embodying the spirit of Akron and bringing UA pride to the
community. We are incredibly grateful for the Berrys’ legacy and how it continues to support our students while enriching the Akron experience.”

The scholarship has evolved over time, and recent adjustments to event pricing make Zippy’s appearances more accessible to the community. This change not only helps maintain the mascot’s visibility, but also supports the ongoing costs associated with the program, including suit maintenance and student stipends.

As the Zippy program continues to thrive and bring cheer to the Akron community, the James R. and Phyllis C. Berry Zippy
Endowed Scholarship stands as a testament to the enduring power of community spirit and the legacy of two individuals who dedicated their lives to making Akron a better place.

Story by Bree Sabin

If you would like to bring some “Blue and Gold” to your next special occasion, UA’s favorite marsupial is here to help you celebrate! Additional information, including appearance fees, requirements and the official request form, can be found online at uakron.edu/zippy.