Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Altadena Resident to Chair LA County’s Sybil Brand Commission

Altadena Resident and lifelong educator, Barbara Bigby was recently elected Chair of the Los Angeles County Sybil Brand Commission for Institutional Inspections.Barbara is the first African American to serve in this esteemed role.Commissioner Barbara Bigby was first appointed by Supervisor Michael Antonovich in June 2008, representing the 5th Supervisorial District.

Barbara is an advocate for children and a voice for those who have no voice – she is a strong believer of justice for all inmates and children in lock-ups and group homes.

Mrs. Bigby was the past owner and director of the Bright-Eye Day Care Center for 30 years, a youth counselor at her church for 28 years, and a tireless volunteer – a very active member of her community. She is married to Richard Bigby Jr., has three children, and is the proud grandmother of four grandchildren. She previously served as the President of the Altadena Chapter of the NAACP, is a member of the Altadena Community Center Advisory Board, Pasadena-Altadena Chapter of the Links, Pasadena City College President’s African American Advisory Committee and numerous advisory councils and committees. In 2012, Assemblymember Anthony D. Portantino, honored her as the 44th Assembly District Woman of the Year.

Members of the Sybil Brand Commission for Institutional Inspections visit and inspect Los Angeles County jails, lock-ups, and probation, correctional facilities, group homes, examining every department of each institution to ascertain the effectiveness of the administration, cleanliness, and discipline and comfort of its inmates.