The ATHENA Community says a heartfelt goodbye to a beloved Board leader
Ms. Judith E. Barnes – Lancaster, J.D., 81, passed away on December 26, 2021, following an extended illness.
With heavy hearts, our ATHENA community joins the Barnes-Lancaster family in acknowledging the passing of our beloved former Board President, Judith Barnes-Lancaster.
The founder of ATHENA International, Martha Mertz, remembers Judith’s indelible impact, “There is a very impressive group of ATHENA advocates in Akron and from among those dedicated people, Judith Lancaster was chosen to lead ATHENA International as the Chair of the Board. Judith’s engaging smile and soft presence were the first aspects one would notice. However, her most effective leadership contained determination, perseverance, an ability to listen, ask penetrating questions, present her point of view, and always done with a sparkle of humor and strength in her eyes. Judith’s style and grace inspired many to join her in making a difference. The entire ATHENA community celebrates her exemplification and dedication to ATHENA leadership.”
Out-going President and CEO of ATHENA International, Ann Playter, remembers fondly coming on to the Board of Directors under Judith’s compassionate and watchful eye, “Judith was our Board Chair when I joined ATHENA in 2016. She led the Board with professionalism, kindness and a spirit of collaboration. Her passion for ATHENA was obvious as she worked to drive new programs, grow our board and move ATHENA forward in our mission. Her calm demeanor put everyone at ease and in a comfortable state to share thoughts and ideas. I will always remember her welcoming smile.”
Our ATHENA community Celebrates, in our whole-hearted ATHENA way, the beautiful life, lasting impact and outstanding legacy of our beloved former ATHENA International Board Chair, Judith Barnes-Lancaster. (For more on Judith’s incredible life, love and work, please click the link below).
https://www.paquelet.com/obituaries/Judith-E-Barnes-Lancaster?obId=23527012#/obituaryInfo