Barbara J. Coffey, Ph.D., was a fifteen year old graduate of CHS. She has recieved numerous honors for her roles as an educator, manager, and volunteer. She has been honored by the Urban League, the YWCA, the Governor’s Commission on the Status of Women, and Who’s Who Among Black Americans. Her employment background includes United Way of the Midlands, Greater Omaha Community Action, Northwestern Bell, Associate Dean at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, Equal Opportunity Coordinator for the University of Nebraska system, and Director for Metropolitan Community College. She is retired in Omaha and volunteers with the National Conference of Christians and Jews, Link Inc., World Herald Goodfellows, and the Central High School Foundation.
Barbara passed away in 2024 at the age of 92.