UpDate - Vol. 11, No. 2, Page 1 September 12, 1991 Recognizing civic service At a ceremony celebrating the freshman class, a former University freshman receives special honors as well. At New Student Convocation Sept. 4, the Hon. Robert J. Berndt, a member of the Delaware General Assembly from 1968-89 and a 1940 alumnus, receives the University of Delaware Medal of Merit from Catherine Burke Flickinger, vice chairman of the University's Board of Trustees. The award recognized his "continuing service to the state and region, to the University of Delaware" and his "distinguished civic and public service commitments."