People-First Leadership, Lifelong Learning, and Building Opportunity

Brian Barker traces his journey to his college years at Bethune-Cookman, where leadership in NSMH - running a national conference and managing a major budget - led directly to an assistant manager role with Four Seasons. He shares how early promotions came from being recognized as a leader of people, a thread that continued through his work in operations, higher education, and nonprofit leadership. He emphasizes servant leadership, kindness, and staying student‑centric as constants in his career.

He reflects on mentors who guided him, the importance of nurturing relationships, and the need to keep learning, including developing financial skills to lead an organization effectively. Brian also describes the creation of AHED, which emerged from the George Floyd moment and collaboration among Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, FIU, industry leaders, and educators to expand diversity and strengthen the hospitality pipeline.

Quotes/Highlights

• “It’s just being a good servant of people… I think that’s been an important sort of characteristic and thread throughout my career.”
• “We have to all be student centric, making sure that we're prioritizing students’ needs regardless of the phase of their journey.”
• “We all have customers and we have to learn how to put people first… regardless of the business, we all have customers.”
• “We should all be lifelong learners… we should always be ready and willing to challenge ourselves.”
• “Just be patient with yourself… things don't happen overnight, right? We have to be patient.”

Closing Reflection

Brian encourages staying patient while building relationships that create opportunity. He affirms that diversity strengthens organizations. His perspective shows how people‑first leadership and continuous learning support success.

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