A spit fire with an Arkansas twang came to Las Cruces, New Mexico in the early 50’s and has left a legacy in the community and an impression on the entertainment businesses.

Barbara Johnston began teaching at Las Cruces High School as a Biology teacher.  On a blind date, in the 60's she met her future husband, Peirce Hubbard. Peirce and Barbara went on to have two sons, Peirce Jr (Hub) and Dru, five grandkids, four great grandkids, and one great grandkid in the “hopper.”

 

Barbara began a career at New Mexico State University in 1966 and became heavily involved; first, as the Campus Activities Program adviser for NMSU's 13,000-capacity Pan American Center, working with the sports association. She also had a stent as the cheer-leading coach for NMSU. In August 1970, Barbara then became a student activities adviser and started bringing events to the building. The first act she brought in was the Ike and Tina Turner Revue; Charlie Pride was her first in-house production.

In 1977, Barbara was named Director of Special Events. She educated and advised the student government and other student organizations on the industry both on stage and behind the scenes. With a staff made up of mostly students, she negotiated and processed contracts between NMSU and agencies; scheduled and approved the use of the Pan Am Center; administered and controlled the Pan Am building budget, and supervised all major campus productions. Barbara Hubbard enjoyed nearly a 30-year reign as Director of Special Events at New Mexico State University, until her "retirement" in 1996.

 

Today, she continues as executive director of the American Collegiate Showcase (ACTS), a position she has held since 1978. The function of ACTS has changed over the years but the mission remains the same provide educational scholarships and experience for her students  industry. With the scholarship money raised, Barbara is able to take her students to various industry conferences and help nurture their involvement and give them the experience, exposure, and  what they need to succeed in the entertainment industry.

Barbara is a member of the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA), the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM), Pollstar, NMSU Alumni, Henderson State University Alumni, and the Aggie Booster Club.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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