Emilio and Gloria Estefan Join Berklee's Board of Trustees

Berklee has named Emilio and Gloria Estefan to its board of trustees, both of whom have been longstanding members of the Berklee community. In 2007, the Estefans received honorary degrees from the college, and Gloria delivered the commencement address to nearly 7,000 guests. In 2012, she served as the keynote speaker for the Berklee Teachers on Teaching (BTOT) conference, and the couple served as masters of ceremonies for the 2015 Annual Encore Gala. Their daughter, Emily Estefan, graduated from Berklee in May 2016.

Gloria Estefan has sold more than 100 million records and has won seven Grammy Awards. Billboard Magazine considers her the single most successful Latin crossover artist in music history. Emilio Estefan is a 19-time Grammy Award–winning musician and producer, with more than 70 musical productions and 25 music videos to his credit. 

The Estefans are executive producers of the Tony-nominated Broadway musical ON YOUR FEET!, which is based on the lives and music of the Estefans. Since opening in November 2015, the production has received rave reviews. The musical is set to Gloria's chart-topping, worldwide smash hits, in addition to an original song written by Gloria and Emily. 

One of the most celebrated couples in music, Gloria and Emilio Estefan know the importance of giving back to the community and have never forgotten their Cuban roots. Married since 1978, their musical talents have not only catapulted their own careers, but have helped other Latin artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Ricky Martin, and Marc Anthony. In addition, the Estefans founded the Gloria Estefan Foundation, aimed at reaching those who struggle outside the safeguards of society by promoting good health, education, and cultural development.

Most recently, President Obama honored Gloria and Emilio Estefan with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.

Liz Lupton is a manager of media relations. Media inquiries: mediarelations@berklee.edu.