DR. BARBARA CHRISTMAS GOLDEN
- info126640
- Jan 21
- 3 min read
Updated: May 10
Barbara Golden, a former executive director of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE), has a deep-rooted connection with the organization that spans decades. Her involvement with PAGE began early in her career, driven by a strong commitment to support and advocate for educators throughout Georgia.
Over the years, she witnessed and contributed to the organization's evolution from a simple liability insurance provider to a comprehensive support system for educators, offering professional development, legislative advocacy, and leadership opportunities.
During her tenure as executive director, Barbara spearheaded numerous initiatives that have impacted Georgia's educational landscape. One of her most notable achievements was expanding PAGE’s visibility with both educators and the business community. Barbara successfully negotiated the administration of the STAR Student and Teacher Program with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, putting PAGE at the forefront of recognizing the best and brightest Georgia educators and students in partnership with major businesses and industry.
In 1993, the PAGE Board of Directors hired Barbara as the PAGE executive director to follow Jack Acree. With a membership of about 27,000 at the time, Barbara worked hard to grow membership throughout the state and to raise PAGE’s visibility in the legislative arena and the business community. She approached the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and asked to partner with them to administer the STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) Program, which honors the best and brightest students and teachers throughout Georgia. This program also connected PAGE with a large number of chief executive officers in businesses around the state who sponsored the program. These connections proved to raise the visibility and credibility of PAGE and increase membership. Barbara also hired the first in-house attorney and was instrumental in rekindling the Student Professional Association of Georgia Educators (SPAGE) in Georgia colleges and universities.
Under her leadership, PAGE became a vital resource for educators, offering not only professional learning but also elevating its strong voice in legislative matters. Barbara was instrumental in establishing PAGE as a respected advocate in the state’s education policy discussions. She worked tirelessly to ensure that educators' voices were heard and that policies implemented at the state level truly reflected the needs of teachers and students. Her ability to build strong relationships with lawmakers and other stakeholders helped PAGE influence key legislative decisions related to teacher pay, classroom resources, and educational standards.
Barbara's journey with PAGE was not without its challenges. Leading a growing organization through periods of significant change required strategic vision and resilience. One of the significant challenges she faced was navigating the complex political environment of education in Georgia. Ensuring that PAGE remained relevant and effective in its advocacy efforts amidst shifting political priorities required continuous adaptation and innovation. Barbara was also tasked with balancing the needs of a diverse membership base, from rural educators to those in urban areas, ensuring that PAGE provided equitable support and resources to all its members.
Despite these challenges, Barbara's tenure as executive director was marked by significant accomplishments that continue to define PAGE's legacy today. She successfully guided the organization through periods of rapid growth, increasing membership, and expanding PAGE’s influence across the state. Her leadership helped PAGE become the largest and most influential professional educators’ association in Georgia, with a reputation for excellence in advocacy and professional development.
Barbara points to the work of Tim Callahan, who handled public relations and marketing as well as membership, as being influential in raising awareness of the work of PAGE throughout Georgia and growing membership. Tim was an experienced media relations professional and leveraged his connections to help Barbara tell the story of PAGE and the benefits of membership to educators. During her tenure, the PAGE membership doubled.
Barbara is particularly proud that PAGE has remained steadfast in its mission to prioritize educators' needs and influence positive change in education policy. One of her most significant contributions was helping expand PAGE’s professional learning programs, which have empowered countless educators to excel in their roles. As PAGE continues to meet educators' needs and develop enhanced benefits, Barbara remains committed to its vision, ensuring that it remains a proactive force in Georgia's education system, advocating for both teachers and their students.
Barbara’s legacy at PAGE is one of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of Georgia’s educators and students. Her efforts left an indelible mark on the organization and the broader educational community. Even in retirement, Barbara's influence can be felt through the programs and initiatives she helped establish, which continue to support and uplift educators. As PAGE moves forward, her legacy serves as a reminder of the power of leadership and advocacy in shaping the future of education. Barbara’s work has ensured that PAGE remains a beacon of support and a champion for educators, dedicated to the success of every teacher and student in Georgia.