TICUA Hall of Fame Spotlight: 

Freed-Hardeman University Graduate John DeBerry

Former Tennessee State Representative, Lifelong Preacher, Civil Rights Champion

Inducting Institution: Freed-Hardeman University

John DeBerry has long been an example and inspiration to his alma mater, Freed-Hardeman University, through his public service and preaching. He lives out the values of the university—academic excellence, family, and Christianity—in his daily life.

In 1995, he was elected to serve House District 90 in Memphis as State Representative and was re-elected thirteen times. He also served two terms as the Democrat Caucus Minority Leader Pro Tempore and the Chairman of the Tennessee Black Caucus of State.

While studying the Bible at Freed-Hardeman, DeBerry began preaching and continues to minister today.