Sandy Barata, administrative director of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Florida College of Medicine-Jacksonville, was recognized this month for her dedication and work in health care to improve the quality of life in Jacksonville.
Barata received a Health and Safety Award at the Ebony and Ivory Gala presented by the Women of Color Cultural Foundation.
Barata was among more than 1,000 people nominated for the awards, said Helen Jackson, Ph.D., president of the foundation board. Three women are chosen in each of the following fields: health, education and economic development. The foundation also honors one community service organization each year.
Barata has worked in health care administration for more than 35 years – and has more than two decades at the University of Florida. She is an award-winning child advocate, with an emphasis on Sickle Cell Disease, HIV/AIDS and child abuse.
Barata stays involved in her community, serving on several boards and committees. She is currently president of the board for the Hubbard House, a domestic violence shelter in Jacksonville.
She received the award at a black-tie gala Sept. 17 at WJCT Television Studios in downtown Jacksonville.