Barden and other alumni were honored at St. John Fisher’s 34th annual Accounting Awards Celebration, held April 23, where he gave a speech.
According to a St. John Fisher news release, the award is given “to individuals who embody Fisher’s core values.” Criteria include “remarkable career accomplishments, notable humanitarian work, and exceptional contributions to the University.”
The release detailed Barden’s professional accomplishments, including having transitioned the Jindal School’s Executive Education Area “into a financially self-sufficient entity devoid of state subsidies.” It also described the awards he has won at the Jindal School — the Faculty Idol of the Year twice and the Global Leadership Executive MBA Faculty of the Year Award.
Barden, who earned a bachelor of science degree in accounting from St. John Fisher in 1983, said that long ago he took to heart the motto of his alma mater’s founders, the Basilian Fathers — “teach me goodness, discipline and knowledge” — and that the school deserves the credit for helping him launch his career as a certified public accountant in New York and Texas, and as an associate dean for the Jindal School of Management.
“To be honored by your alma mater is humbling and has shown me the power of their influence: to work hard, be honest, believe in yourself and give back,” he said. “After all, at St. John Fisher and now at the Jindal School I’ve learned and practiced one important adage for decades — you never fail until you stop trying and I’ll never stop trying.”
Dr. Diane McNulty, associate dean for external relations, communications and corporate development at the Jindal School, said Barden’s accomplishments reflect the Jindal School’s high standards.
“John’s leadership showcases his innovative approach and dedication to education,” she said. “This recognition is not only a testament to his professional achievements but also highlights the impact our faculty members have in leading and enriching the accounting profession. We celebrate this honor with him and look forward to his continued success and contributions to the field.”
