John H. Johnson Humanitarian Award Given to Assistant Dean of DEI at Sam M. Walton College of Business

Dr. Barbara A. Lofton, assistant dean and namesake of the Dr. Barbara A. Lofton Office of Diversity & Inclusion at the University of Arkansas' Sam M. Walton College of Business, has received the John H. Johnson Humanitarian Award.

Dr. Barbara A. LoftonGiven by the Friends of John H. Johnson Museum, the award recognizes people with "exceptional merit and importance to academic, business or professional organizations" who contribute "to groups and organizations through professional services and activities, and actively promote diversity and inclusion to the underserved," states the university.

During her tenure at Walton College, Lofton has worked to attract underrepresented students through summer recruitment programs, academic courses, support services, academic scholarships and business partnerships. She holds a bachelor's degree from Jackson State University, a master's degree from the University of Iowa and an Ed.D. from Grambling State University.

"Barbara's work is so important to our students and to our college," said Matt Waller, dean of Walton College. "She has worked 25 years at Walton, encouraging a multitude of students and helping them find their way. It is fitting that she is recognized with an award named after such an influential Arkansan."

The founder, chief executive officer and chairman of Ebony, Jet and Negro Digest magazines and of Johnson Publishing Company, John H. Johnson was the first African American to make Forbes Magazine's list of the 400 wealthiest Americans. He was inducted into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame in 2001.