The Georgia Center for Opportunity’s
Kristin Barker
Champion of Economic Empowerment
Kristin Barker’s journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration, showcasing what is possible when talent, passion, and purpose converge. Through her leadership, volunteerism, and commitment to economic empowerment, Kristin continues to leave an indelible mark on the community, proving that with compassion and collaboration, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Subject Matter Expertise:
The Value & Importance of Work
Community Impact
Vice President of Workforce Solutions
Kristin Barker
Kristin Barker, Vice President of Workforce Solutions, spearheads the transformative BETTER WORK initiative, aiming to significantly scale the program’s impact and forge pivotal collaborations. With a distinguished background that includes over 14 years at Columbus State University, where she excelled as Marketing Manager and Senior Operations Manager in the Continuing & Professional Education department, Kristin has honed her expertise in collaborative and organizational leadership. Her commitment to servant leadership and her role in the development of the BETTER WORK model since July 2018 underscore her dedication to community prosperity and economic empowerment. Under her guidance, the BETTER WORK program in Columbus witnessed a remarkable 333% increase in client service, growing from 57 individuals in 2021 to 247 in 2023. A passionate advocate for poverty reduction and employment accessibility, Kristin has actively contributed to various organizations, including the Georgia Adult Education Association, Chattahoochee Valley Poverty Reduction Coalition, and the Mayor’s Commission on Reentry. Holding a BA in Marketing and an MBA from Columbus State University, and being a certified Jobs for Life facilitator, Kristin’s professional and personal life is dedicated to uplifting individuals and communities, evidenced by her roles as a volunteer, wife, mother, and grandmother of two.
Pioneering Leader
As the Vice President of Workforce Solutions, Kristin Barker is the force behind the BETTER WORK initiative, committed to expanding the program’s reach and efficacy to serve those seeking pathways out of poverty through meaningful employment.
Remarkable Growth Architect
Under her leadership, the BETTER WORK program in Columbus achieved a 333% surge in client service, skyrocketing from 57 in 2021 to 247 in 2023, showcasing her exceptional ability to drive impactful community transformations.
Community Catalyst
With a profound belief in the power of collaboration, Kristin has played a pivotal role in fostering partnerships between businesses, non-profits, schools, and civic leaders to create sustainable solutions for economic prosperity and poverty reduction.
Servant Leadership Advocate
Bringing over 14 years of experience from Columbus State University and a heart for servant leadership, Kristin is dedicated to the personal and professional development of others, proving her commitment through volunteerism and leadership in various local organizations. She has served young people through the Kindergarten Readiness program and served on boards and in leadership roles for several local groups including the Georgia Adult Education Association (GAEA), Chattahoochee Valley Poverty Reduction Coalition (CVPRC), and the Mayor’s Commission on Reentry.
Educated and Certified Empowerer
Holding a BA in Marketing and an MBA from Columbus State University, alongside certification as a Jobs for Life facilitator, Kristin embodies the dignity and value of work, enriching her community as a devoted wife, mother, and proud grandmother of two.
Topics
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The Value & Importance of Work
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Addressing Poverty at a Community Level
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Creating a Collective Community Response
Meet your neighbor, Kristin
As the Vice President of Workforce Solutions, Kristin has become synonymous with innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to fostering economic empowerment and reducing poverty. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the belief in the potential of every individual to achieve greatness when given the right opportunities.
Leadership at BETTER WORK
In July 2018, Kristin embarked on a transformative journey with the BETTER WORK initiative, a program dedicated to creating meaningful work opportunities and pathways out of poverty. Under her leadership, the program experienced unprecedented growth, with the number of clients served in Columbus soaring by 333% from 57 in 2021 to 247 in 2023. This remarkable achievement highlights Kristin’s ability to lead, innovate, and inspire her team and the community toward achieving shared goals.
Community Involvement and Volunteerism
Kristin’s impact extends beyond her professional accomplishments; she is deeply involved in her community, driven by a belief in the importance of volunteerism and civic engagement. Her contributions include serving young people through the Kindergarten Readiness program and playing active roles in the Georgia Adult Education Association, Chattahoochee Valley Poverty Reduction Coalition, and the Mayor’s Commission on Reentry. These roles demonstrate her commitment to not only advancing economic opportunities but also to enriching the social and educational landscape of her community.
Philosophy and Personal Life
At the heart of Kristin’s work is a core belief in servant leadership and the dignity of work. She views her career not just as a job but as a calling to empower others and break the cycle of poverty. This philosophy extends to her personal life, where she is a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, cherishing the value of family and the joy it brings. Her certification as a Jobs for Life facilitator further exemplifies her commitment to making a difference in the lives of those she serves.
Early Career and Education
Kristin’s professional path is marked by a strong foundation in marketing and business administration, bolstered by a BA in Marketing and an MBA from Columbus State University. These academic achievements laid the groundwork for her exemplary career, equipping her with the knowledge and skills necessary to make contributions to the field of workforce development.
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