About

Dr. Cynthia Barnett

Dr. Cynthia Barnett is a trailblazing author, motivational speaker, and coach, inspiring audiences across the nation with her powerful "refirement" message. Her unparalleled expertise has been featured in major news outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, TIME magazine, and US News and World Report, as well as on local TV shows and in newspapers.

As a former teacher, guidance counselor, and administrator, Cynthia's journey to refirement has been nothing short of extraordinary. She is the recipient of the prestigious AARP Purpose Prize, a testament to her unparalleled ability to revitalize her life and inspire others to do the same.

Cynthia's latest book, "I'm Not Done Yet… And You Shouldn't Be Either" is a captivating memoir chronicling her journey from a childhood on the island of St. Vincent to her rise to the top of her field. With her trademark wit and wisdom, Cynthia offers readers a roadmap to uncovering their own purpose and living a fulfilling life.

Currently, Cynthia is paying it forward through her nonprofit program, Amazing Girls Science, which empowers young girls to pursue their dreams in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). She resides in Connecticut, living proof that it's never too late to refire your life and make your dreams a reality.

AARP Purpose Prize Award

After recalling my ability to reinvent myself in the early days of my early retirement, my calling soon became evident.  I was moved by a research study by AAUW (American Association of University Women) called “Why so few women are in science, technology, engineering & math (STEM).” A light bulb went off. I decided to join the movement to help close the gender gap in the sciences. I found my purpose and passion and realized that all of my previous training as a teacher, counselor, and administrator had exactly prepared me for this second career.

So I founded Saturday Academy to empower young girls to blaze their own path in STEM fields and my efforts have since been recognized and featured in CBS and honored with Community Innovation & Leadership Award.  The biggest recognition of my work was the AARP Purpose Prize award.  More importantly, approximately 40,000 elementary, middle and high school girls have gone through our programs and are better prepared to meet 21st century challenges.

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