Shirley Elizabeth Barnes facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Shirley Elizabeth Barnes
United States Ambassador to Madagascar
In office June 29, 1998 – July 28, 2001
President	Bill Clinton
Preceded by	Vicki Huddleston
Succeeded by	Wanda L. Nesbitt
Personal details
Born	1938 (age 86–87)
Alma mater	Baruch College, Columbia University, National War College

Shirley Elizabeth Barnes, born in 1938, is a remarkable American diplomat. She worked for the United States government, representing her country in different parts of the world. From 1998 to 2001, she served as the U.S. Ambassador to Madagascar. An ambassador is a special representative sent by one country to another. Their job is to build good relationships and discuss important matters between the two nations.

Early Life and Background

Shirley Elizabeth Barnes was born on April 5, 1938, in St. Augustine, Florida. When she was five years old, her family moved to Saratoga, New York. This is where she spent much of her childhood.

Her Education Journey

Shirley Barnes was a dedicated student. In 1956, she graduated from Baruch College with a degree in business. During her time in college, she joined the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. She also became a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). She learned to speak French fluently, which would be very helpful in her future career.

Later, she continued her studies in International Affairs at Boston University. In 1970, she earned a master's degree in business administration from Columbia University. She also attended the National War College, graduating in 1995. This advanced training helped her prepare for important roles in government.

Starting Her Career

Before becoming a diplomat, Shirley Barnes had a varied career. She worked as a vice president in several big advertising companies. From 1961 to 1965, she worked for the Ford Foundation in the Republic of Congo, Kinshasa. This experience gave her a global perspective. After returning to the U.S. in 1965, she worked for the African-American Institute in New York City.

Her Career as a Diplomat

In 1984, Shirley Barnes joined the U.S. Foreign Service. This is a group of people who work for the U.S. government in other countries. Her first role was as a General Services Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Egypt. She helped manage the daily operations of the embassy.

Working Around the World

In 1986, she was promoted to Supervisor for the General Services Office at the Embassy in Senegal. From 1990 to 1992, Barnes worked as a Counselor for Administration in East Berlin, Germany. She helped with the administrative needs of the U.S. diplomatic mission there.

Shirley Barnes also served as the director of Western European affairs. This role was within the Bureau of European Affairs at the United States Department of State. She worked as a diplomat in many cities, including West Berlin, Cairo, Sofia, and Dakar. She was also a consul general in Strasbourg, France. A consul general helps U.S. citizens who are traveling or living abroad.

Becoming an Ambassador

In 1998, Shirley Barnes reached a major milestone in her career. She was appointed the U.S. Ambassador to Madagascar. She served in this important role until her retirement in 2001. As ambassador, she represented the United States and worked to strengthen ties with Madagascar.

After Her Diplomatic Career

After retiring from the Foreign Service, Shirley Barnes continued to make a difference. In 2004, she started the Barnes Findley Foundation. This non-profit organization helps women and girls of African descent. .....

In 2006, Knox College honored her with an honorary doctor of laws degree. This was in recognition of her outstanding career and contributions.

Shirley Barnes is still a member of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. She is also part of the American Foreign Service Association. She loves African art and continues to speak French.