The Air Force Institute of Technology is very proud to announce that Barbara JT Newell, a member of its staff, received the 2008 Air Force Distinguished Equal Employment Opportunity Award in the Special Emphasis Programs category.
Ms. Newell, who serves as Lead Computer Technician for AFIT’s Help Desk and has completed more than 30 years of service for the federal government, distinguished herself as the Chairwoman of the Special Emphasis Program Management (SEPM) Committee at AFIT from 01 October 2006 to 30 September 2007. Her stalwart leadership and outstanding management of six diverse SEP Managers re-instilled their motivation and cohesion. Demonstrating financial acumen, she integrated six disparate SEP funding requirements into a unified submission under a single budget source which enabled all PMs to attend their national training conferences. Her brilliant supervision of AFIT’s first-ever hosting of a WPAFB Black Employment Program “Lunch and Learn” event was acclaimed by the entire Dayton Community. Ms. Newell’s meticulous oversight of charity collection drives ensured compliance with policy while maximizing donations for persons in need throughout America. Her recruitment and mentorship of a new generation of SEP Managers has guaranteed the SEPM Committee’s vitality and effectiveness for years to come.
Says Navy Capt. Rick Scudder, AFIT’s Vice Commandant, “Here at AFIT, we always knew Barbara was the best. Now, the entire Air Force knows. It is an honor to serve with her.”
As lead computer technician, Ms. Newell is involved in promoting, coordinating and improving knowledge of the Help Desk Staff. She also provides leadership, staff assistance, and consultation for the entire AFIT Team and is the Primary Focal Point and System Administrator for AFIT’s Secure Internet Protocol Network users.
Barbara has served as Chairperson or alternate of AFIT’s Special Emphasis Program Management Committee since 1996. Active in the Miami Valley area, she is presently serving as Vice-Chair of the Dayton Intergovernmental Equal Employment Opportunity Council and is an avid supporter of Blacks In Government.
The distinctive accomplishments of Ms. Newell reflect great credit upon herself and the United States Air Force, and AFIT praises and salutes her on a job very well done!