ARE YOU LOOKING TO GROW OR EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS; IMPROVE YOUR LEADERSHIP, COMMUNICATION OR CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS?

karenthia barber - Biography

From 9 year old Entrepreneur to Award Winning History Making Business Woman/ Public Servant

Karenthia A. Barber is a distinguished and influential speaker, renowned thought leader, consultant, strategist, and coach whose expertise lies at the crossroads of business, education, and politics. With an impressive career spanning over three decades, she has left an indelible mark on the lives of more than 300,000 individuals and organizations through her impactful programs and services.

Currently holding key positions as a Maryland Port Commissioner, adjunct faculty member, board chair, and president of Professional Development Associates, LLC, Karenthia leads this consulting practice that specializes in management consulting, diversity, equity, and inclusion, organizational development, training, and government relations services.

Throughout her career, Ms. Barber has garnered recognition for her deep insights and proficiency in leadership, motivation, supervision, communication, conflict management, diversity, equity and inclusion, customer service, community engagement, and workplace violence mitigation. Her contributions extend to academia, where she has served as an adjunct faculty member at both the university and community college levels.

Ms. Barber's influence extends beyond the academic realm. With a unique blend of experience in both appointed and elected positions, she has earned the respect and trust of corporate executives, elected officials, and public figures, who often seek her guidance and advice.

Her academic journey includes an undergraduate education at the University of Pittsburgh, followed by graduate studies at Penn State University. She is an alumna of Leadership Maryland and Coach University, reflecting her commitment to personal and professional growth.

Among her numerous achievements, Ms. Barber made history as the first woman Chair of the Board of Trustees of Maryland Automobile Insurance, where she provided steadfast governance and leadership to the 100-million-dollar insurance carrier. In a testament to her expertise and reputation, Maryland Governor Wes Moore appointed her to the prestigious Port Commission of Maryland in 2023.

Outside her professional commitments, Ms. Barber is deeply engaged in community initiatives. She holds the position of Chair of the Board of Baltimore Votes and contributes as a member of the Morgan State University President’s Committee for the Morgan State Choir and the Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Center Board and Baltimore City Historical Society Board.

Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Karenthia Barber has received numerous accolades, including The Maryland Daily Record's Top 100 Women in Maryland in both 2016 and 2022. Her achievements also include the Gold Leadership Award from Leadership Maryland, the Living Legend Award from the National Association of Negro Professional and Business Women’s Clubs and the George Russel, Jr. Community Service Award. The University of Pittsburgh Alumni Association awarded her with a Distinguished Alumni Award. She is a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Links, Incorporated.