The Barber National Institute will celebrate the life and legacy of its founder, Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, with the grand opening of a permanent exhibit room in her honor on Wednesday, July 9, at 10 a.m. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held in the North Lobby of the institute’s Erie campus at 100 Barber Place.

The new Founder’s Room will serve as a lasting tribute to Dr. Barber, who dedicated her life to improving services and opportunities for children and adults with disabilities and is currently a candidate for sainthood. The exhibit will feature memorabilia from her life and career, reflecting her enduring impact on the community.

The opening will include remarks from Barber family members, including John Barber, Dr. Maureen Barber-Carey, Robert Barber, and Patrick Barber, along with institute administrators and staff. Fr. James Power will lead a blessing and dedication of the space.

In attendance will be local dignitaries, board members, families, and clients of the Barber National Institute.

After the ceremony, guests are invited to tour the exhibit and enjoy refreshments from a lemonade stand run by students of the Elizabeth Lee Black School.