Barbara W. Carpenter

Barbara Carpenter is a lifelong Baton Rouge resident. She graduated from Capitol High School and went on to earn multiple degrees from Southern University, including a bachelor’s in vocational education and science, and a master’s in secondary education and administration. She later completed her Ph.D. in adult and occupational education at Kansas State University, focusing on international education.

Career & Community Involvement

Barbara is the Dean of International Education and University Outreach at Southern University, where she helps build global partnerships and connects the university to local communities. Her work focuses on expanding educational opportunities beyond the classroom and across borders.

Political Career

She was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives in 2015 and began serving District 63 in early 2016. She’s been re-elected since, continuing to represent parts of East Baton Rouge Parish.

Committee Work & Leadership

Barbara currently chairs the House Labor and Industrial Relations Committee. She also serves on the Education and Appropriations Committees, the Executive Committee, and the Joint Legislative Budget Committee. In addition, she’s active in several caucuses, including the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus, Women’s Caucus, and the Capital Region Delegation.

Legislative Focus

Her work at the Capitol reflects her long-standing focus on education, workforce development, and community support. She’s pushed for better protections for workers, support for small businesses, and investments in local projects—from flood control to airport business improvements. She also regularly backs school supply drives, food giveaways, and scholarship efforts for local students.

Personal Life & Community Impact

Barbara lives in Baker with her husband, Dr. Dana Carpenter. She’s well known in her community as someone who shows up, listens, and follows through—whether it’s helping a student with college costs or fighting for safer neighborhoods.