Harnett County Board of Commissioners member Barbara McKoy has been awarded the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for her remarkable contributions to the community and the state of North Carolina. This award celebrates individuals who have dedicated over 4,000 hours of volunteer service, making a lasting impact in their communities.

“It is an honor to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award,” said McKoy. “I am passionate about helping others and devoted to making a difference.”

Commissioner McKoy expressed gratitude to God, her family and her friends, saying she could not have achieved this without their support.

At the award ceremony held on Saturday, October 5, Commissioner McKoy along with other community leaders from across North Carolina were honored for making a difference. The honorees were presented with a medallion and a letter from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

In his letter, President Biden wrote, “By sharing your time and passion, you are helping discover and deliver solutions to the challenges we face - solutions that we need now more than ever. — On behalf of the American people, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to you for your volunteer leadership, and I encourage you to continue to answer to serve. The country is counting on you.”

Commissioner McKoy’s service has been extensive. She has been appointed to various North Carolina State Board of Commissioners by several North Carolina Governors as well as numerous community committees in Harnett County. She served on the Harnett Central Hospital board for 13 years and is also a founding member of both the Harnett United Police Athletic League and Harnett County Food Pantry. 

Dr. Rosa Smith-Williams, Pastor of Norrington AME Zion Church and Co-Chair of the Education & Prevention Committee of the Harnett County Opioid Taskforce shared that McKoy is a great Commissioner who works diligently and extremely hard to serve the individuals of Harnett County.

“Commissioner McKoy has done outstanding work for the community and Harnett County. She represents her constituents very well and has a heart for the people. That is what public service should be. A person who has a real heart for the people, sees the needs and tries to address them,” said Dr. Smith-Williams.

Former Congressman and now State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency, Bob Etheridge, also spoke highly of McKoy’s leadership.

“Barbara has always been actively involved in the community. Some people are active in the community, and they listen and talk. Barbara listens, talks, does, and delivers,” said Etheridge. “Being a positive force politically can benefit a broad number of people if you’re doing it to make a positive difference in people’s lives. She gives her time, money, and energy to make a difference and encourages others to participate with her and that is a great trait. She deserves high marks for that.”

Doris Olds, who worked with Harnett County Schools for over 20 years recognized McKoy’s hard work and commitment.

“Barbara is one of the hardest working people that I know, and she is very deserving of this award. She has earned her crown and looks out for everyone,” said Olds.

Commissioner McKoy was first elected to the Harnett County Board of Commissioners in 2014 and was re-elected in 2018 and 2022. She represents District 1 and is a retired Business Agent/Political Liaison for Workers United. McKoy has been actively involved in the community as an advocate for over 20 years.

The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award was established in 2003 by former President George H. Bush. The award recognizes individuals whose service positively impacts communities and inspires others to volunteer.

To learn more about Commissioner McKoy visit our Harnett County website.