Marilyn Barber

Marilyn Barber’s life has been guided by a deep love for music, education, and service. A Baltimore native, she began her musical journey at seven years old as one of the Children’s Choir pianists at Refuge Way of the Cross Church, later serving as Youth Choir Directress. She also played clarinet in the Woodbourne Junior High Orchestra and sang with the Peabody Concert Choir, the National Christian Choir, and Harvard’s Kuumba Singers. Along with her sister Claudia, Marilyn performed as part of the Barber Sisters Duet, sharing their family’s musical talent at churches throughout the community.

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Since 1979, Marilyn has dedicated her career to teaching and mentoring in public education systems both in the U.S. and abroad, including the Canadian Academy in Kobe, Japan. She holds degrees from Goucher College (B.A.), Johns Hopkins University (M.S.), and Harvard University (M.A.), and made history as the first African American president of both the Maryland Technology for Educators Association and the State of Maryland Reading Association. Guided by her belief that “Each one, reach one, teach one. Together we can make a difference,” she continues to inspire educators and students through her lifelong commitment to learning and leadership.