Barbara

Truly, a steward to family, friends, as well as the community, Barbara Koirtyohann gives with her time and talent. Throughout Barbara’s career at Hallmark, she was respected as one of the top public affairs professionals in Missouri and Kansas, and represented Hallmark in the many community endeavors the company supported.

Her volunteer work expanded after retirement to a number of important roles. Barbara chaired the “Older Adults Mobility and Transportation Committee” as a board member of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF). In that capacity she worked with leaders from the Mid-America Regional Council, the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, OATS, cities in Eastern Jackson County, THCF board members and staff to improve transportation options for older adults. She is pleased that this effort will continue as the EJC Transportation Alliance. At THCF, Barbara also chair the Development Committee. At Christ United Methodist, Barbara chaired the Church Council and also chairs a committee to review and recommend improvements to the Children’s Ministry. Serving on the Mid-Continent Public Library’s Foundation board of directors, Barbara was a part of the successful campaign to approve a levy increase to ensure the library’s role into the future.

Barbara is a committed daughter to her 103 year-old father, and currently serves as ‘teacher’ to her 11 year-old grandson five days a week alongside his virtual school. Barbara has a gift for bringing others into and onto her projects. Through her humility and willingness to give credit to others, she is the definition of a leader.