Michael DiBerardinis Named a 2019 Civic Champion

Michael DiBerardinis, Professor of Practice at the Fels Institute of Government, has been awarded a 2019 Civic Champion Award by CORA Services, a Philadelphia non-profit that aids children, youth, and families experiencing emotional, academic, and social challenges.

CORA presents annual Champion awards to individuals and organizations that enrich the lives of children and families in the Philadelphia region. The Civic Champion Award recognizes DiBerardinis for his longstanding commitment to creating a brighter future for local children.

Before joining Penn Arts & Sciences, DiBerardinis served as Managing Director for the City of Philadelphia under Mayor James Kenney. He also served as Deputy Mayor for Environmental and Community Resources, a special advisor to the Free Library of Philadelphia, and Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation of Natural Resources.

Matt Levendusky, Penny and Robert A. Fox Director of the Fels Institute of Government and Professor of Political Science, says, “We are all thrilled that Mike is being recognized for his decades of great work on behalf of the city of Philadelphia. His experience and expertise help provide our students with both the analytical and practical tools needed to succeed in the public sector.

John Lapinski, Robert A. Fox Professor of Political Science, adds, “I can’t think of anyone who is more deserving than Mike to be given the Civic Champion award. He has done everything in his power to improve the lives of people living in Philadelphia, especially children, over the last several decades.  What separates Mike from many others is that he accomplishes so much, and we are delighted that he has made it is his mission to train others at Penn to become Civic Champions in the future.”