May 3, 2023 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Northside Baptist Church Gym 

Special Guest Speaker: Dr. Shirley Cothran Barret

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Shirley Cothran Barret has enjoyed a very eclectic life. In 1975, Shirley won the title of Miss America which redirected her predictable life in a very unpredictable direction. Over the years, she has had the privilege of speaking in all our states and many countries around the world. Shirley used scholarship monies awarded through the Miss America Pageant to earn her undergraduate, Master’s degree, and PhD. in Early Childhood Education & Family Counseling.

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As well as being named Texan of the Year, she has appeared on numerous televised talk shows, national news programs such as The Today Show, The Tonight Show, Good Morning America, and Rachael Ray Show. And, Shirley, along with her husband and three sons, even competed on Family Feud! Shirley continues to be engaged in the public forefront. Her educational background has opened opportunities for her to keynote at educational seminars, public school forums, and at university roundtables. Remaining active with the Miss America Organization, she has judged state pageants, as well as judging the Miss America Pageant four times. Shirley has served in several volunteer capacities, including her local school board, Texas Speedway Children’s Charity, other various community efforts, and is part of National Speakers’ Association.
 

Shirley’s different ministries have always been especially important to her. Speaking to various Christian groups have always been a highlight. “To potentially enrich, challenge, or inspire another person is an honor of a lifetime,” Shirley was recently quoted. Never before has there been such opportunity and balance needed to live life that reflects eternal value. It is Shirley’s prayer that her life and ministry would be a compliment to the Kingdom of Christ.
 

Always appreciating the art of story telling, Shirley is in the process of writing a sequel to an inspirational novel, while she has also contributed articles in diverse Christian publications. Her love for all things creative, Shirley stays busy with painting, mosaics, and reading.
 

Shirley and Richard have four grown children and four grandsons and two granddaughters. They continue to reside in their country home near the Fort Worth area.