Barbara J. Stanton honored with lifetime achievement award in Los Angeles

By AI, Created 11:23 AM UTC, May 20, 2026, /AGP/ – Barbara J. Stanton, executive director of Entrepreneur Educational Center Inc., received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the African Goodwill Awards & Family Induction Ceremony on April 25 at the Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel. The recognition spotlights her work in education, workforce development and entrepreneurship across underserved Los Angeles communities.

Why it matters: - Stanton’s award highlights the role local nonprofit leaders play in building education and job pathways in underserved communities. - The honor also reflects growing recognition of programs that connect entrepreneurship, workforce development and cultural engagement.

What happened: - Barbara J. Stanton, executive director of Entrepreneur Educational Center Inc. (EECI), received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the African Goodwill Awards & Family Induction Ceremony on April 25, 2026. - The ceremony took place at the Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel in Los Angeles. - Councilman Curren Price, 9th District, made a special announcement recognizing Stanton’s leadership, service and commitment to knowledge and cultural appreciation. - The event drew hundreds of guests, including community leaders, public officials and cultural ambassadors. - Assemblyman Mike Gipson, 65th District, attended the ceremony. - Dominique DiPrima served as the event’s primary host. - His Royal Highness, Oba Oyeditan Olantee, the Onimeko of Imeko, officiated the ceremony.

The details: - The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented as the highest distinction at the African Goodwill Awards & Family Induction Ceremony. - Stanton was recognized for leadership in education, workforce development and entrepreneurship. - EECI works to create pathways to economic opportunity and foster unity across diverse populations. - Stanton has submitted and received approval for the Ozie B. Gonzaque Open Water Apprentice Program, described as the first of its type in California. - Stanton has also submitted two business apprentice programs: one for a business owner and one for a nonprofit executive director. - EECI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving underserved communities throughout Los Angeles County. - The organization says its programs help people start businesses, enter the workforce and build long-term success. - The source includes a social media link for EECI: EECI Instagram

Between the lines: - The ceremony combined civic recognition with cultural ceremony, signaling the value placed on community leadership beyond traditional awards settings. - Stanton’s recognition also boosts visibility for EECI’s apprenticeship and training work at a time when workforce development programs remain a key local need. - The announcement frames Stanton’s influence as both practical and symbolic, linking local service with broader cultural and international ties.

What’s next: - Stanton said she plans to travel to Africa soon and asked the king to prepare for her visit. - EECI is expected to continue advancing apprenticeship and nonprofit training programs under Stanton’s leadership. - The organization will likely use the award to further elevate its community outreach and program visibility.

The bottom line: - The award positions Barbara J. Stanton as a prominent figure in Los Angeles nonprofit and community development circles, while underscoring EECI’s expanding role in education and economic opportunity.