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Bridget Power Barber ’81 VMC is a dedicated healthcare professional, community leader and advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Born in Limerick, Ireland and raised in Erie as one of eight children, Barber credits her Catholic education at St. Andrew School and Villa Maria Academy with instilling the values of service, faith and perseverance that have guided her life and career.
After initially pursuing nursing studies at Carlow College in Pittsburgh, Barber returned to Erie following the death of her father due to cancer and her mother’s cancer diagnosis, which resulted in her death 19 months later. She later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Villa Maria College. She worked as a nurse at hospitals in both Philadelphia and Erie before devoting 15 years to raising her five children, all of whom attended Cathedral Preparatory School or Villa Maria Academy and now carry on the family legacy of service.
Barber officially joined the Barber National Institute in 2000, where she has held various roles across clinical and administrative operations. She currently serves as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and External Affairs, where she has overseen the growth of major events like the Barber Beast on the Bay, the community art show and the organization’s annual Christmas Ball and golf tournament. Her leadership has played a key role in expanding services and raising awareness for the mission of the Institute.
In addition to her professional work, Barber has served on numerous boards including St. Mary’s Home of Erie, Asbury Woods, Erie Arts & Culture and the Villa Maria Alumni Association. She is also a member of the Association for the Cause of Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, which supports the canonization of the Institute’s founder.
A proud Villa graduate and lifelong Erie resident, Barber remains committed to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive and be fully included in their communities. She finds her greatest joy in spending time with her husband, John, their five children, and seven grandchildren—while continuing to live out the values that began with her Villa education.
