Brinkley-Lane Scholar: Millar Berry
Prioritizing kindness – that is Millar Berry. In a society where social media battles seem to rule the day, Berry genuinely roots for others with energy and joy.
“It takes one person to lift the mood of any room, and I take pride in being the first to turn a negative conversation into a positive one,” Berry said. “Accolades are forgotten, but people never forget how you treat them and others.”
And, she hasn’t forgotten how she was treated when she first toured ECU as a junior from Rocky Mount Academy. Berry said she was “absolutely blown away” by the Honors College students — especially how they balanced hard work and wellness.
“They seemed truly happy, not burned out or overwhelmed. This proved to me how special ECU is, as they listed so many important commitments, yet they also had time to build friendships and grow as individuals,” Berry said.
She highlighted how the students work together and build each other up. This interaction was so impactful to Berry that she said she made getting into the ECU Honors College her one and only goal before she turned 18.
“I believe ECU is special,” she said.
Now Berry has achieved her goal as one of 21 incoming Brinkley-Lane Scholars, which is the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at ECU.
Housed in the Honors College, the Brinkley-Lane Scholars four-year merit scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, commitment to community engagement and strong leadership skills. Both in-state and out-of-state recipients receive a fully funded education, covering the cost of tuition, fees, room and board, and high impact experiences. Included in the scholarship is the ability to explore the world and pursue additional educational opportunities with a $5,000 study abroad stipend and a $3,000 enrichment scholarship. Scholars benefit from access to an array of leadership opportunities, research with award-winning faculty and a robust alumni network.
Berry’s attraction to teamwork more than likely comes from athletics. She is a two-time state champion with Rocky Mount Academy — one in soccer and the other in basketball. She is also actively engaged with programs for children with special needs. Berry said this involvement began in middle school, as he school had several exceptional children programs.
“I love spending my time with the EC class at school and am going to miss them,” she said. “Nobody will replace them, but I’d love to find a new group of students to grow with.”
Berry will study marketing in ECU’s College of Business. Not surprisingly, she has already lined up the COB clubs she intends to join. Her long-term goal is to one day own a marketing firm or be the director of marketing for a large company.
“You can’t help but smile after talking to her,” said senior associate dean of the College of Business Dr. Linda Quick. Quick interviewed her for her Brinkley-Lane scholarship. “I’m excited that she’s also going to be a part of the COB.”
If you were wondering, “Millar” is pronounced as “Miller.” Berry said it is her mother’s maiden name. She said what makes it extra special is how close she is to her Millar grandparents. Also, her mother, Ashley Berry ‘00, came to ECU for her master’s degree and ended up teaching health classes here.
“Because of this, I have always been a Pirate,” Berry said.
“It takes one person to lift the mood of any room, and I take pride in being the first to turn a negative conversation into a positive one. Accolades are forgotten, but people never forget how you treat them and others.”
High school: Rocky Mount Academy
Intended major: Marketing
Current City: Rocky Mount