By Meghan McCormick
Transcript Staff Writer
Joan Barker’s commitment to helping people gain job skills and confidence was one of several reasons why she was named the sixth local recipient of the ATHENA award Thursday night.
The award, sponsored locally by Ferguson Pontiac-Buick-GMC, was presented during a reception at the Assistance League of Norman’s chapter headquarters.
Andy Paden chaired the award’s program. Paden said the ATHENA award was created to recognize professional women and men in the community who create leadership opportunities for women.
“A successful nominee actively assists women in realizing their full leadership potential, demonstrates excellence in her or his business or profession, and contributes time and energy to improving the quality of life for others in the community,” Paden said.
After she accepted the award, Barker said a few words to the audience.
“I’d like thank the sponsors,” Barker said.
She also thanked Kathy Heiple, who serves on the board of Full Circle Senior Adult Day Center, for nominating her.
“This community is one that works together to make this a much better place to live,” Barker said.
She also said in her opinion Norman deserves a higher ranking than it was as the sixth Best Small City to live in by Money magazine.
“Norman is number one in my heart,” she said.
Paden said Barker has brought more than $20 million and services to Cleveland County during her 25-year career.
“Displaced Homemakers with little or no job skills or long term unemployed have been able to enter the workforce with marketable skills through the programs she created,” he said. “Joan's efforts have far reaching affects on the families, children, school, non profits and businesses in Cleveland County.”
Barker is director of Cleveland County Work Force Development. She also serves or has served on several non-profit boards including: Moore Norman Technology Center, United Way of Norman – Community Investments and the Community Service Building
Other nominees for the award were Pam Clinton, Sondra ‘Jennifer’ Newell, Paula Price, Denise Lynn Rable and Karen Rieger.
Meghan McCormick
366-3539
mmccormick@normantranscript.com
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NEW: Barker honored with Athena Award
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