April 7, 2025

Barbara Kakiris is honored to be named one of the distinguished recipients of The Association of Junior Leagues International’s (AJLI) inaugural 40 Over 40 Award. This recognition celebrates outstanding Junior League Members who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, impact, and service in their careers and communities.

Selected from among 297 Junior Leagues across six countries, Barbara was recognized for her transformative League presidency as well as her personal and professional accomplishments. Her career—during which she has made significant contributions, earning numerous awards—spans healthcare, higher education, non-profit management, and federal government. As a dedicated member of the Junior League of Cleveland, Barbara has been committed to empowering others, driving positive change, and creating a lasting impact in Cleveland, OH.

“I am incredibly grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to serve alongside so many inspiring women,” said Barbara. “Through my work with the Junior League, I have had the privilege of being intentional about the ways in which we want to make an impact—identifying areas of greatest need and partners with whom to do the work—and I look forward to continuing to make a difference in my community.”

The 2025 40 Over 40 honorees will be celebrated during the AJLI Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

For more information about the 40 Over 40 awards, visit www.ajli.org.

ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUES INTERNATIONAL

The Junior League is one of the oldest and largest premier women’s organizations, committed to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. Since 1901, The Junior League Movement has addressed community issues through hands-on projects, partnerships with local organizations, and advocacy efforts.

Through leadership training, community collaboration, and service projects, we Develop Women to Do a World of Good™, making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

Today, The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) is powered by over 113,000 women in 297+ communities across the United States, Canada, Mexico, France, Kenya, and the United Kingdom

To learn more or get involved, visit www.ajli.org.