She joined the staff of the Henderson Housing Authority in 1978 and held various positions until she was named its executive director in 1999. She's a mother, a grandmother, a community helper and more.
That's why not many were surprised when Bobbie W. Jarrett was named the winner of Henderson Community College's President's Award for Diversity on Friday.
"Thank you so much," she said on stage at the college's Fine Arts Center. "I am deeply honored and humbled by this."
Jarrett was also the keynote speaker of the college's annual program to celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
King, Jarrett said, dedicated his life toward eliminating intolerance, hatred, segregation and racial oppression. His commitment was to human rights, freedom and democracy.
In attempts to change the world, even small, daily acts can make a difference over the long haul, she said. Jarrett pointed to local leaders Dr. Anthony Brooks and Thomas Platt, who she said have worked tirelessly throughout the Tri-state for more than 50 years for freedom, justice and equality.
She also praised Bill Dixon, the college's director of cultural diversity, who was part of a peaceful demonstration at Woolworth's and J.J. Newberry lunch counter because those stores refused to serve minorities.
Jarrett also talked about the late Annette C. Brown, a former school teacher and author who used to write a column for The Gleaner.
"In a few short years, there will be but a few warriors left from the Civil Rights Movement," she said. "Nevertheless, we must remember that we are still on the battlefield. Every single one of us, as beneficiaries of what those warriors accomplished, has a responsibility to fulfill and promote Dr. King's dream."
In her acceptance speech for her award, Jarrett also referenced a song that gospel singer Kimberly Hinton said was one of King's favorites. One of two songs Hinton sang in front of an audience of college staff and community members, was titled "If I Can Help Somebody."
Jarrett said that song was a good explanation of why she works as hard as she does, since then she will know that "my living (will not be) in vain." The quote is a line from the song.
"No one is more deserving of this award than Bobbie Jarrett," Thomas Platt said after the ceremony. "She's a hardworking girl."
