Jamaican-American Alrene Richards Barr has been awarded the Joseph R. Biden Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her lifelong commitment to service and global community empowerment.
Reflecting on the honor Ms. Richards Barr told the Jamaicans.com team:
“I am honored to receive the Joseph R. Biden Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing a lifelong commitment to service both locally and globally. From mentoring young women in aviation to fostering connections that empower communities in developing countries, service has always been my way of giving back and creating opportunities for underserved communities. Whether building bridges across continents or supporting initiatives close to home, I am driven by a deep passion to make a meaningful impact.”
She expressed gratitude to the organizations that recognized her work:
“A heartfelt thank you to AmeriCorps, the Office of the President of the United States, and Global Women Wealth Warriors for this extraordinary recognition. Together, let’s continue to serve, inspire, and create a brighter, more inclusive future.”
A Leader in Global Aviation
Ms. Richards Barr serves as the Senior Director of Public and International Affairs at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the world’s busiest and most efficient airport. With over 30 years of experience in aviation, she oversees International Affairs, Protocol, and Diplomacy. She also created the International Affairs Program at ATL, cementing the airport’s role as a global gateway.
Her work includes managing partnerships with the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs and collaborating with international economic development leaders to enhance Atlanta’s global business relationships. She is the architect of ATL’s Sister Airports Program, which fosters partnerships with airports in regions such as Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
As a cultural competency trainer for the City of Atlanta, she is part of a team working to ensure the city’s 8,000 employees are equipped to serve its diverse population effectively.
Global Impact and Mentorship
Beyond her leadership at ATL, Ms. Richards Barr volunteers as an instructor for airport managers in developing nations, including The Gambia, Malawi, and Suriname. Her expertise has been featured in publications spanning 24 countries, including Liberia, China, France, Brazil, and Jamaica.
She also serves on various boards, including the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta-Montego Bay Sister Cities Committee, while actively participating in global initiatives such as the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)/CIFAL Atlanta Airports and Economic Development Global Training Program.
Ms. Richards Barr holds two master’s degrees—in International Business and Management and Leadership—and is certified as an International Airport Professional (IAP), the highest professional designation in airport management.
