Barber recognized as ABAC Honorary Alumnus
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College has named Cindy Barber an Honorary Alumnus, recognizing decades of service and influence at the institution.
The award, presented by the ABAC Alumni Association, honors individuals who did not attend the college but have made significant and lasting contributions to its mission and community.
Barber joined ABAC in 1989 in the alumni office, where she quickly became a key part of outreach and engagement efforts. Over the years, she advanced through a variety of roles across campus, including positions in technical support, media production and digital communications. She currently serves as director of marketing services.
Throughout her career, Barber has contributed to a wide range of initiatives, from developing marketing campaigns and managing websites to producing video content and supporting campus technology systems. Her work has played a central role in shaping the college’s communications and public image.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Barber has been active in campus leadership and service. She has participated in multiple committees, including a presidential search, led the Staff Forum and held a leadership role with the Baldwin Woman’s Club. Her commitment to students has included travel opportunities such as international and in-state educational experiences, and she has been recognized with a Pacesetter Award.
Barber has also remained engaged in the local community through involvement with civic organizations and her church.
Among her many contributions is her work on the Freedom Gallery in Tift Hall, which highlights the legacy of ABAC alumnus and Medal of Honor recipient Pinky Durham and those who served alongside him during the Vietnam War. For her efforts in preserving and sharing these stories, Barber received honorary membership in the 28th Infantry Regiment.
Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing and Communications Ryan Hogan spoke about the importance of this project and Barber’s overall impact.
“Cindy Barber’s impact on Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College is both profound and enduring. While many of our students may never have known her by name, they have experienced the results of her dedication every day, from the way we tell our story to the opportunities that shape their time here,” Hogan said. “Her work on the Freedom Gallery stands as one of her most meaningful legacies, ensuring that we honor and remember students like Pinky Durham and others who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Through that effort and so many others, Cindy has helped preserve the spirit and history of ABAC for generations to come. As she enters a well-deserved retirement, she will be deeply missed, but we are equally excited to see her embrace this next chapter.”
After nearly four decades of service within the University System of Georgia, including 37 years at ABAC, Barber plans to retire in May. She looks forward to spending more time with her family.
When asked what this award meant to her, Barber described a range of emotions.
"This award represents one of the highest honors of my career at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. I am deeply humbled that the Alumni Association Board recognized in me the qualities of an Honorary Alumnus. Having loved this institution since the beginning, it has been a privilege to work here and share the story of ABAC. It's been said that there are two kinds of people in the world, those who went to ABAC and those who wish they had. I have always fallen in the latter category, but now I feel like I can say I went to ABAC for 37 years."