Pillars of Excellence
Robert Gershman
Teacher and Administrator
A native Detroiter, Bob graduated from Henry Ford High School in 1967 before attending Wayne State University, receiving his bachelor’s degree in education in 1972 and a master’s degree in physical education in 1978. Bob began his career in the Berkley School District in 1972 as a physical education teacher at the elementary and junior high school levels. He coached junior high baseball and basketball for many years. He was also the assistant basketball coach at Berkley High School for 13 years. In 1985, Bob became the Berkley School District Director of Health and Physical Education, and served as Athletic Director for 22 years. He won numerous awards for his service and dedication to high school athletics in Michigan, and in 2000 became a certified Master Athletic Administrator (CMAA) through the National Association of Athletic Directors. Bob was the recipient of the Allan Bush Award for outstanding leadership and service to the Michigan High School Athletic Association in 2001 and was named regional Athletic Director of the Year in 2002 by the MHSAA. He taught leadership training classes for the
MIAAA and NIAAA, and served as a mentor in the MHSAA Mentor Program for new athletic directors, and was instrumental in the development of the Oakland Activities Association for Athletics. He was a tournament manager for numerous MHSAA events, served on several MHSAA committees, and was very active with the Oakland County Athletic Directors Association and the Oakland Activities Association. He also served as a host for the Program of Athletic Coaches Education. In the Berkley School district, Bob directed a physical education program, which was named an Exemplary Physical Education program by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness. He was also a member of the Michigan and American Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.