Don Barney’s interest in education began in his early days in upstate New York where many of his relatives had joined the field.  But after earning a degree in Journalism from Syracuse University, and five years in the U.S. Navy, Don took a job in a leading news magazine reporting on political issues in Washington, D.C. and London, England.  After ten years, Don moved with his family to Oregon where he got involved in local city politics as a lobbyist, and then as a government consultant.

As retirement approached, Don decided it was the right time to pursue his interest in education.  He took on a volunteer position at PSU, giving lectures on “Key issues in the Portland Metro area.”  Being an active retiree, he also joined the Portland Pearl Rotary where dedication to civic volunteerism quickly won him the position of Club President.  Under Don’s leadership Pearl Rotarians sought to find an education-related project, which led them to Open Meadow.

The Rotarians found the Open Meadow story, mission and goals matched well with theirs, and Don’s journey began.  He started by working with students in Step Up’s 2009 Leadership Academy, a week-long summer program orientation. Don took his assignment to heart, spending late nights monitoring the boy’s wing of the cabins, providing grandparental guidance for his young charges, and rising each morning before the students.  Each day he greeted campers with a smile and an enthusiasm for the day’s work to come.  And he didn’t just coach, he participated.  Don completed the ropes courses, mountain hikes, and broke boards with his bare hands, student activities designed to help conquer fears and break emotional barriers to success.

These days, Don has become a “go-to” tutor at Step Up’s Madison High School program, where he spends two to three days per week encouraging and expanding students’ academic experience.  His dedication has earned him the trust and respect of the students and the admiration of the staff.

Staff speaks fondly of Don, “We just love and admire Don.  Every single staff member and student knows him.”

“The reception Don gets from the students just makes my day,” says Sierra Hill, Step Up Madison High School Program Coordinator.  “I am moved and appreciative of the amount of personal time, treats, and research Don puts in for the students here.  He is always thinking about how he can help our students.”

When asked what legacy would Don like to pass on to students and staff, he says, “If I can help one or more kids move forward though their high school career to something positive, I will have contributed.”

Open Meadow, Step Up Madison, and the students he has assisted thank Don for his dedicated service and unwavering enthusiasm for student success.