-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Barbara Board?
I am a very approachable person. I have a high work ethic, which was cultivated from growing up on a farm. I vividly remember there always being an expectation of accountability and making a meaningful contribution to the good of the whole. I am a clear communicator and storyteller. I am a problem solver. I love history, and the stories that create it. I am a nature lover. I am an honest person.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born and raised in Franklin County on a tobacco farm. On that farm, we all had to contribute, which instilled in me a sense of purpose and work ethic. At an early age, I lost my dad. This put me on a path to becoming the strong, independent woman that I am today.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
I went on to get a BS Degree from Virginia State University in Petersburg. From there, I earned a master’s and a PhD from Virginia Tech. I enjoyed a 37-year career with Virginia Cooperative Extension in Blacksburg and Cooperative Extension at NC A&T State University.
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am currently retired, but serve as the President of the Friends of Booker T. Washington National Monument. After retiring from Tech, I was given the title of District Extension Director Emeritus.
The role has a specific definition: “an honorary title given to retired faculty, staff, and administrators who have provided exemplary service to the University with a career that had a significant impact.”
This is seen as Tech’s way of honoring valued retired educators and staff, acknowledging their legacy and maintaining their connection to the university community.
How important is family to you?
My family is very important to me! We are one another’s support system.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
Frankie Beverly, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gap Band, Stylistics, Temptations, Gladys Knight, Patty Labelle, Phyllis Hyman, Angela Bofill, Jelly Roll, Teddy Swim, Chris Stapleton, Yolanda Adams, Donnie McKlukin, Renee Olstead, Bill McGee and Cora Armstrong.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
My brother-in-law, James “Red” Charlton, was from Roanoke. He was always creating moments of great hospitality and fellowship with meals and experiences. Thus, this would bring together a network of diverse family and friends that created joy-filled moments.
What are some of your hobbies?
I enjoy history, music and walks in nature.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
Phyllistine Mosley, my extension agent, and one of my first bosses at Virginia Tech, Dr. Jim Johnson, immediately come to mind. They both saw something in me and believed in me enough to place me in opportunities for growth and development.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
Cultivate your understanding of God, develop your faith, recognize your assigned gifts and the purpose they serve. Trust your voice, use it for good and believe in its power. Work hard and live a good story. Find joy in living and finally don’t underestimate where you come from and the role it plays in cultivating your best self.
