05/07/2026
🎉 Celebrating the Retirement of Dr. Barbara Tarter 🎉
Today we celebrate the remarkable career and lasting legacy of Dr. Barbara Tarter, whose dedication to higher education, service, and student success has shaped countless lives.
Dr. Tarter’s academic journey began at Ohio University, where she completed her B.S., Master’s, and Ph.D. in just six years. Her career took her across the country—from serving as an Assistant Professor at Southwest Texas State University, to leadership roles as Director of Admissions and Assistant Vice President at Emporia State University, and later as Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean for Enrollment at Austin Peay State University.
Dr. Tarter joined Marshall University, serving as Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of Enrollment, and later as a valued member of the Communication Studies faculty, serving 29 years at Marshall. A passionate educator, she has taught a wide range of undergraduate and graduate courses, including First Year Seminar, Legal Communication, Persuasion, Organizational Communication, Grant Writing, Consulting, and more—always with a focus on helping students grow personally and professionally.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Tarter’s impact is extensive. She has served as a Peer Reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission, consulted on enrollment efforts for colleges, universities, and the U.S. Army, and authored numerous successful grants—including three million-dollar TRIO grants that expanded access and opportunity for Marshall students.
Guided by her faith, Dr. Tarter is deeply committed to service and mission work, supporting organizations such as the Huntington City Mission, Branches, Dress for Success, and missionaries in Mexico. And as anyone who knows her can attest—her love for animals is legendary, from her two Rottweilers to the many critters she cares for and welcomes.
Dr. Tarter’s career reflects a life of service, leadership, mentorship, and purpose. We are profoundly grateful for her years of commitment to Marshall University and the countless students and colleagues whose lives she has enriched. We wish her every joy and fulfillment in this next chapter.
đź’šđź’™ Congratulations on your retirement, Dr. Tarter!
