Barber National Institute Unveils New Sensory Room at Elizabeth Lee Black School
Barber National Institute Unveils New Sensory Room at Elizabeth Lee Black School
Renovation Funded Through Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Foundation and 2025 Ladies Only Luncheon Creates Vital Space for Student Success
ERIE, Pa. (October 20, 2026) – Barber National Institute officially unveiled a newly renovated sensory room at the Elizabeth Lee Black School during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, October 20, at 10 a.m.
The new sensory room incorporates therapeutic equipment and interactive sensory experiences that support students with a wide range of sensory needs. Occupational therapists guide students through individualized sensory experiences using established protocols that match equipment and activities to specific regulation goals.
“Our vision for this space was to create a sensory environment where students are guided and supported in regulating their emotions, moving their bodies, and engaging their senses,” said Amanda Richardson, lead occupational therapist at Elizabeth Lee Black School. “The ultimate goal is for students to use the equipment to regulate their bodies and minds and return to the classroom feeling calm, focused, and ready to engage in learning opportunities.”
“Our new sensory space is more than a calming environment. It is an investment in each student’s future, providing a place to regulate, recharge, and build skills that support greater confidence, independence, and lifelong success,” said Dr. Maureen Barber-Carey, executive vice president of Barber National Institute.
For many students, sensory regulation is an important part of being able to fully participate in classroom activities. The new space provides opportunities for movement, calming experiences, and sensory engagement to help students return to the classroom ready to focus and learn.
The renovation, made possible through the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Foundation and funds raised during the 2025 Ladies Only Luncheon, fulfills a long-term goal of the school’s occupational therapy team.
The event included remarks from Barber National Institute leadership and members of the occupational therapy team who led the project, followed by an official ribbon cutting and tours of the new sensory room.
About Barber National Institute
Barber National Institute is guided by compassion, innovation, and an unshakable belief in human potential. We work every day to help make dreams come true for people of all abilities. Founded in 1952 by Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, we have grown from a single classroom into a comprehensive network of services for 5,400 adults and children with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral health challenges. With locations in Bedford, Erie, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Somerset, and Warren, we empower children, adults, and families through education, residential options, employment, and community programs. We carry forward Dr. Barber’s legacy and vision of a world where everyone belongs and lives to their fullest potential.
