Berry Shepherd

Berry Shepherd is a retired Physician Assistant, Veterinary Technician, and clinical research professional who settled in Western North Carolina in 2018. Originally from Northern California, she has lived in New England and Indonesia and has an adult son in Seattle. A practicing Vajrayana Buddhist since 1993, Berry has lived and worked in several Dharma communities and completed multiple years of private and group retreats. While seeking a spiritual home in 2019, she “hit the sacred jackpot” at Unity of The Blue Ridge and has been an active member ever since, participating in classes, programs, and service teams. She currently leads the Labyrinth Team and is honored to serve as a Unity Prayer Chaplain.
Through prayer and discernment, Berry felt called to serve Unity in a deeper way when Board nominations were announced. Her professional background in clinical research management and mentoring, along with prior board leadership as President of the Dharmata Foundation under Anam Thubten Rinpoche, has prepared her to collaborate thoughtfully and effectively in service to community. Berry would be honored to bring her experience, leadership, and devotion to the Board of Trustees in support of Unity’s spiritual mission.