2001 - Barbara Peris Draves
GRINDSTONE AWARD
2001

 

Barbara Peris
Draves
Finding the words to list her community activities and civic accomplishments is easy. To describe the depth and breadth of her commitment for her lifelong home, Berea, and the feeling she has for it's citizens is more difficult.

This quote from a nominating letter says it well: "the character of Barbara is impeccable. She believes strongly in family and community and has spent most of her adult life strengthening both. I certainly benefited from knowing Barb."

Another wrote: "Barbara Peris Draves displays an incredible amount of passion as a mother, professional and as a dedicated member of the Berea community. She possesses strong family values and is widely recognized for her service to others."

"Barbara is a wonderful wife, mother, business woman, volunteer and community supporter" said another, "I am proud to say she is my friend."

A 1973 graduate of Berea High School, Barbara is the 35th recipient of the Grindstone Award, presented by The Berea Chamber of Commerce. Her career as a licensed practical nurse has led her to her current position as executive administrator of the Surgery Center located in Middleburg Heights. She and her husband Jack, a Strongsville firefighter have two children, Morgan and John. She also volunteers her time at St. Mary's School.

Barbara served on Berea's Master Plan Committee, the Madzy Tower committees, the dedication of Lou Groza Boulevard and the Welcome Back Browns campaign. She continues to support all sports programs at Berea High School and works behind the scenes to ensure their success.

She is a fellow in the American Academy of Medical Administrators and was nominated for the Crain's Award for Business Excellence. She also taught in the Berea Schools Adult Education Program and has been inducted into the high school's distinguished alumni Hall of Fame. And, she works with the school district's Committee for Good School.

About receiving the award Barbara said, "Living in Berea, and seeing the award through the years - it's the coolest possible thing that can happen to you. People who don't live here don't understand it."
Radisson Hotel, Middleburg Heights
Presented April 16, 2002