Let the festivities begin! Tomorrow is Founder’s Day—a celebration honoring Dr. Gertrude Barber, whose vision continues to inspire the Barber National Institute. After months of preparation, all campuses are ready to enjoy activities such as dance, music, and special treats for staff and individuals, including a petting zoo at the Erie, Main Campus location. Though Dr. Barber passed away in 2000, her legacy still guides us as we celebrate her birthday and the Institute’s ongoing mission and achievements.

Dr. Barber’s dream began in 1952, when services for individuals with disabilities were rare. Her determination led to the founding of the Barber National Institute, empowering children and adults with disabilities to thrive in their communities. 

Notable recent milestones include: 

• A $3 million renovation of BNI’s therapeutic pool—originally built in 1979—is reopening in phases starting October 2025. The pool now features a liftable floor for wheelchair access and offers specialized programs for individuals with mobility challenges, reaffirming our commitment to wellness and inclusion. 

• The new Founder’s Room honors Dr. Barber’s legacy. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by staff, residents, and community leaders, included a blessing by Fr. James Power, who has been appointed Postulator to the Cause of Gertrude Barber by Erie Bishop Lawrence Persico. Fr. Power will advocate for the canonization process.  The Founder’s Room is open to the public, Monday-Friday, 10 AM-2PM. 

• BNI continues as a trusted resource for families, professionals, and community organizations, offering flexible, outcome-based treatment and employment support programs. The Institute now serves over 5,400 individuals statewide and employs more than 3,000 professionals across Erie, Pittsburgh, Somerset, Bedford, and Philadelphia. 

Dr. Barber once said: 

“Our focus has continued to be a mission of faith, hope, and love – to open the doors where they were closed – to bring sunlight where there was darkness – faith where there was despair.” 

Today, the Barber National Institute continues to open doors through education, innovation, and compassion. As we celebrate Founder’s Day, let’s honor both our beginnings, the progress we have made and will continue to make throughout our future. That is our mission.