The NAACP San Luis Obispo County Branch recently held an election, and they are pleased to introduce their new board President-elect, Barry Stokes. Barry was sworn in on July 13, 2025.
Barry Stokes is a retired Software Engineer with 40+ years of experience for major aerospace and defense corporations. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from Boston University and his Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Santa Clara University.
Throughout his career, he has served in several leadership positions both in his community and the private sector. Barry served as President of the Multi-Cultural Network (MCN) and the Black Employees Resource Group. The MCN functions as an umbrella organization for the company’s seven Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), coordinating their programs, activities and opportunities for educational and professional development. He also served as the San Jose site Local Ethics Officer. Barry is a trustee board member of First A.M.E. Zion Church, San Jose for over 20 years and has served as Treasurer for over 10 years. His strong faith and commitment to advancing our shared mission of justice and equality drives him to serve the NAACP.
Barry and his wife Sylvia became residents of San Luis Obispo County in September of 2022. Barry is a leader with a clear vision and the experience to take the NAACP SLO County Branch forward and into the future with full transparency and integrity.