Tribute to Ron Berger, Long-Time Friend of the Foundation and Lionsgate Academy
Seventeen years of wonderful service!
When Lionsgate Academy was just an idea back in 2006, a group of parents reached out to bring in experts and people capable of helping to launch this bold new venture. Imagine having your surgeon ask you to join the first school board. While Steven Waisbren might not have literally held a scalpel to Ron Berger’s knee, Ron will tell you he was someone you just didn’t say “no” to!
That was Ron Berger’s first connection to Lionsgate Academy. Since that time, he has served as the school’s board chair, its finance and operations director, and finally as a valued member and treasurer of the Lionsgate Foundation. Through his care and stewardship, both the school and the Foundation have grown and become vital parts of the Twin Cities community.
Among his many accomplishments, Ron was instrumental in:
Ensuring funding from resident districts to cover LGA special education costs;
Finding partners and orchestrating the moves to LGA’s own building in Minnetonka;
Leveraging relationships with local businesses to secure furnishings for many spaces in all facilities;
Building out the Transition Space in North St. Paul;
Organizing and planning the expansion of Lionsgate to the Shoreview Campus;
Creating space and building out the Lynx Program.
As Ron steps gracefully away to enjoy more time with his 5 grandchildren and his amazing partner, Phyllis, we at the Foundation would like to take time to recognize the quiet legacy that he has been instrumental in building.
Ron Berger is truly an extraordinary individual who has selflessly devoted his time and energy to being a volunteer advocate for students with autism. His unwavering commitment to the Lionsgate Foundation has allowed him to provide invaluable support and empowerment to individuals on the autism spectrum. Through his kind-hearted and magnanimous nature, Ron has managed to make a profound and lasting impact in the lives of these students, garnering well-deserved recognition and admiration from all those who have had the privilege of witnessing his remarkable work.
Ron's dedication to advocating for students with autism goes beyond what words can express. His tireless efforts and unwavering commitment have made a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals on the autism spectrum. Ron's selflessness and compassion have touched the hearts of many.
The Lionsgate Foundation is fortunate to have had Ron as a volunteer advocate. His dedication has allowed the foundation to reach new heights in supporting individuals with autism. Through his hard work and determination, Ron has created a safe and inclusive environment where students can thrive and grow. His impact is truly immeasurable, as he has touched the lives of not only the students but also their families and the entire community.