Theodore S. Berger 

1940-2026 

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our longtime, beloved founding board member and cherished friend, Theodore S. Berger. Ted was a visionary advocate and unwavering champion for the arts and social justice and a mentor whose impact has shaped generations of cultural and civic leaders and young people.  

Ted’s influence at ArtsConnection has been immeasurable. As one of our most committed advocates, he shaped not only our programs but the very guiding values of our work. He believed deeply that every young person in New York City deserved meaningful access to the arts — not as enrichment, but as an essential part of their development, identity, and opportunity.  Ted elevated everyone around him. His insight and generosity helped strengthen our organization in lasting ways, and countless young people have been touched by programs that carry his fingerprints. 

Of course, Ted’s devotion to the arts extended far beyond ArtsConnection. Through his leadership at the New York Foundation for the Arts and his advocacy across the cultural sector, he transformed the landscape for emerging artists, educators, and community arts organizations throughout the city. Ted believed passionately in the power of creativity to change lives — and he spent his life making that belief a reality. 

Ted’s professional impact was vast, but the love that grounded him was found in his family and deep friendships. Ted’s devotion to Asya and Jonathan along with his cherished friendships infused his work with a deeper humanity — the kindness, steadiness, and empathy that so many of us experienced firsthand. 

All of us at ArtsConnection are deeply grateful for Ted’s leadership, his wisdom, and the compassion he brought to every conversation. To Asya and Jonathan, we send our deepest love, support, and sympathy. We hold you close in our hearts as we honor Ted’s extraordinary life and carry his legacy forward in our work with the young people of New York City — continuing the mission he championed with such heart. 

Linda LeRoy Janklow, Founding Chair 

Lisa Plepler, Chair Emeritus 

Debra Kleeman, Chair 

Steven Tennen, Retired Executive Director 

Rachel Watts, Executive Director… 

and the entire board and staff at ArtsConnection past and present. 

In tribute to Ted’s lifelong commitment to ensuring the arts remain a vital force for young people and communities, we invite those who wish to honor his memory to consider making a donation in his name to ArtsConnection or the cultural organizations listed below he so deeply believed in. Your support will help sustain the opportunities Ted fought for, ensuring that his legacy lives on through the next generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders. 

Arts Connection, Congregation B’nai Jeshurun, The Center at West Park, Cue Art Foundation, The Cultural Solidarity Fund, The Design Trust for Public Space, HB Studios, The Indie Theater Fund, Leimay, The National Coalition for Arts Preparedness, New Yorkers for Culture and the Arts, Participant Inc, WeisAcres 

Honor Ted Berger’s Legacy