From 1974 to 1978, Berry taught graphic design and illustration at Boston University, School of Visual Arts. In 1978, he became Professor of Art at the University of Missouri in Columbia where he was given the Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Faculty Research and Creative Activity, 1983, and named a William H. Byler Distinguished Professor in 1989. He served as chair for the department from 1995-1999. The University of Missouri, in recognition of his scholarship and professional reputation, made him a Curators’ Professor in 1991. He retired in 1999 as Curators’ Professor of Art Emeritus, a title he held for life.