Barbara A. Lofton, assistant dean of the Dr. Barbara A. Lofton Office of Diversity & Inclusion in the Sam M. Walton College of Business, received the John H. Johnson Humanitarian Award during Arkansas' annual John H. Johnson Day observance. The recognition, hosted by the Friends of John H. Johnson Museum, was held Nov. 1 in a virtual ceremony.

"It was both exciting and humbling to be recognized for my work with students at Walton College," Lofton said. "I was so proud to be honored by professionals and organizations who understand the value of diversity."

"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."

Lofton received the award based on her longtime work in recruiting and supporting a diverse student population at the U of A and within the state. During her tenure at the university, she developed summer recruitment programs, delivered academic courses, worked with faculty, provided support services, cultivated academic scholarships and created business partnerships to support diversity within Walton College. 

Lofton earned 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.

John H. Johnson Humanitarian Award recipients must demonstrate exceptional merit and importance to academic, business or professional organizations, contribute to groups and organizations through professional services and activities, and actively promote diversity and inclusion to the underserved. The award is given to individuals or organizations whose work aligns with the life and work of John H. Johnson, the founder, chief executive officer and chairman of Ebony, Jet and Negro Digest magazines and of Johnson Publishing Company.

Johnson was the first African American to appear on Forbes Magazine's list of the 400 wealthiest Americans. He was inducted into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame in 2001.