The Libby Award, established in 2000 to celebrate the legacy of Olivia P. “Libby” Maynard, a lifelong philanthropist and advocate for women and girls in Genesee County, recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of service and commitment to the community.  

“At her core, Ms. Wesley is a giver,” said Essence Wilson, who nominated Barbara for the award. “She is generous with her time, talent, and treasure to benefit women and girls in our community.” 

Barbara’s impactful career began in the early 1970s as an English Literature teacher at Northwestern High School in Flint, Michigan. Her Harlem Renaissance class inspired young women to explore their creative potential. One of her most memorable contributions was organizing a transformative trip to Harlem, New York—an experience her students cherish to this day.  

“Teaching at Northwestern probably changed my whole outlook on life,” Barbara shared. “High school students were expressing themselves in passionate ways. It just really came to me that I could get involved.”                                        

Barbara’s commitment to helping others extended beyond her professional life and into her home. Her daughter, Lisa Brantley, recalls, “She was always looking for ways to help others in our home. It was not uncommon for Mom to invite people who were less fortunate or didn’t have a family to enjoy the holiday with to our dinner table on Thanksgiving. Beyond meals, Mom opened up her home many times for young ladies and their families to live with us.”   

Barbara is involved in community organizations such as the YWCA Greater Flint, Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Links, Incorporated, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Zeta Beta Omega Chapter, and the Flint Institute of Music. A steadfast supporter of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, she donates annually to various funds benefiting these organizations. Barbara is also an active driver and fundraiser for the Links, Incorporated Flint Area (MI) Chapter Flint Kids Matter Fund of CFGF.  

Barbara was one of the charter members who were instrumental in establishing the Ivy House, an initiative of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Zeta Beta Omega Chapter. The Ivy House intends to meet community needs, support women and girls, and offer a community facility for programming.  

“Barbara saw the vision,” Wilson adds. “She understood the benefit of ownership and a place that would be a help to the community. The Ivy House has served the community through meeting the needs of students, providing school supplies and providing goods for women’s shelters.” 

As an activist, Barbara played a significant role in local politics and the United Teachers of Flint, the Black teachers' caucus advocating for desegregation in the city.  Her activism extended beyond Flint, chairing the "Connections" Political Action Committee and leading efforts to engage with state legislators in Lansing.  

Barbara’s commitment to community service continued in her role as a counselor at Whittier Middle School, where she served as a mentor and coach, guiding students toward positive paths. Later, as Human Resource Director for Flint Community Schools, she focused on helping students recognize the value of education and ensuring they had the support needed to succeed. 

Reflecting on receiving the Libby Award, Barbara shared, “It’s very humbling, and it’s with a great deal of humility that I accept. I have done things in my life that I feel are service-oriented, and I’m proud and happy and thankful for all the support that I have had and still have.” 

Barbara remains active with the Teen Girls Summit, a partnership with Mott Community College, and continues to mentor young women. Her advice to the younger generation is simple but profound: “Network, and when you have the opportunity, go out. And find something where your skills and passion can match. You’re not just helping people; you’re receiving inspiration, fulfillment, and knowledge.”  

Barbara Wesley's lifelong dedication to education and community has made a significant impact on Genesee County, embodying the spirit of the Libby Award.