Q&A:
Name: Dean Berman
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2006
Events: 1m and 3m Springboard Diving
Degree: Computer Science
Profession: Senior Software Engineer, NAVY Contractor
Current residence: Waxhaw, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
Being part of the UNCW Dynasty and sweeping the CAA Championships as well as setting pool and conference records. Getting to compete in the NCAAs was also a lifelong dream achieved. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014 was such an honor. UNCW Swimming and Diving program was my home-away-from-home, and the late Marc Ellington, Head Diving Coach, was a father figure to me. The late Head Swimming Coach Dave Allen was an amazing mentor and friend to everyone and I will never forget either of them for as long as I live.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
Being able to attend an amazing college, earning a degree in Computer Science, and having the knowledge and readiness to join the working force and providing for my family. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve any of this without the experience and help of the UNCW Swimming and Diving team and coaches and experiences. What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck? After graduation I moved back to Charlotte temporarily until I got a new job in Charleston. I relocated in 2007. I spent a year as an Assistant Diving Coach at College of Charleston. I got married in 2008, had a daughter in 2012 and a son in 2015. We moved back to Charlotte after our daughter was born and have been here since 2013. I work as a government contractor for a global contracting company and recently achieved 16years with the company. I have multiple side hustles doing residental handyman and eletrical work, along with being a systems administrator for multiple online portals. I have 2 amazing kids, ages 11 and 8, and a wonderful and supportive wife of over 15years.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
David Allen Natatorium Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer? “It’s a great day to be a Seahawk!”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Enjoy your college years and being young. Time passes so quickly.