Past President Spotlight: Barbara Harrell, 2009-2010

In celebration of WGA’s 25th anniversary, we’re launching a special series featuring conversations with our past presidents, reflecting on their leadership and the legacy they helped build.

The fourth president of WGA was Barbara Harrell, who served from 2009–2010. Despite taking the helm on the heels of the severe 2008 economic downturn, during Barbara’s tenure WGA continued to grow, Legacy Memberships were established, and WGA’s endowment, established at its inception, also grew. By the end of her term, the endowment had reached $1 million. Learn more about Barbara’s time as president in the short Q&A below, as remembered by Barbara and her husband William.

Barbara was a Founding Member of WGA. What prompted her to take a leadership role, becoming president from 2009-1010?

Barbara had an active civic life before joining WGA, including serving on the board of Daniel (now Daniel Kids). From all that she had seen in her volunteer work, she was very interested in helping break the cycle of predictable poverty. When she joined WGA, she was amazed to find a group of like-minded women who were attempting to fund and help in the very areas she felt passionate about. She was happy to get involved right away and take a turn as president.

What significant happenings took place during her time leading WGA?

When Barbara stepped up as president, everything had been falling apart economically. Despite that, membership in WGA continued to grow under her leadership. She also was convinced that the organization needed an endowment, and that Legacy Memberships were the way to get started. By the time her presidency ended, the endowment had reached $1 million.

What are her favorite memories from her time at WGA?

Barbara adored the Annual Meeting and was particularly struck by the stories of the women and girls that WGA was helping. She always felt that taking credit for any achievements was never hers alone, but always the product of the larger group of people — the board, other volunteers, and all the women who gave something of value to the organization. She cherished her friendships with people from all over Jacksonville and loved how much WGA could accomplish when everyone worked together.

What is one thing about Barbara that people might find surprising?

Barbara was very uncomfortable with public speaking. So she took a Dale Carnegie course, and that absolutely changed her life. It enabled her to be less afraid being in front of people and gave her the courage to take on leadership roles. One other fun fact is that in 1987, Barbara chaired a Citizen’s Task Force that got a $199 million school bond passed in Duval County. It had failed twice before, which is a testament to Barbara’s ability to bring people together to make things happen.

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