About Colleen
Colleen C. Barrett was President Emeritus of Southwest® Airlines and the inspiration behind The Colleen C. Barrett Institute for Cultural Excellence & Customer Service. Colleen played a key role in the creation of Southwest Airlines and was the original architect of its world-renowned Culture. She also was the first woman to serve as president of a major airline, receiving that title in 2001. Colleen passed in May 2024, but her influence on the Company and Employees is eternal.
The People-first Southwest Culture and “do the right thing” approach to Customer Service is alive and well. This dedication to Colleen’s vision of others over self is what continues to make Southwest a perennial favorite for corporate recognition, such as Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers and Glassdoors’ Best Places to Work. The Company’s collection of accolades over more than five decades of service is vast and is a direct reflection of Colleen’s core values and passion for serving others. Below, we explore her Leadership ideology, learn from her guidance, and celebrate the lasting impact she continues to have on Southwest Airlines and countless other businesses and organizations.
About Colleen
Colleen C. Barrett is the President Emeritus of Southwest® Airlines and the inspiration behind The Colleen C. Barrett Institute for Cultural Excellence & Customer Service. Colleen played a key role in the creation of Southwest Airlines and was the original architect of its world-renowned Culture. She also is the first woman to serve as president of a major airline, receiving that title in 2001. While no longer actively engaged in airline operations, her influence on the Company and Employees is eternal.
The People-first Southwest Culture and “do the right thing” approach to Customer Service is alive and well. This dedication to Colleen’s vision of others over self is what continues to make Southwest a perennial favorite for corporate recognition, such as Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers and Glassdoors’ Best Places to Work. The collection of accolades over the Company’s 51+ years of service is vast and is a direct reflection of Colleen’s core values and passion for serving others. Below, we explore her Leadership ideology, learn from her guidance, and celebrate the lasting impact she continues to have on Southwest Airlines and countless other businesses and organizations.
Colleen’s Story
LIFE
Few have led lives as inspiring as Colleen Barrett. As many strive to learn from her and follow in her footsteps, perhaps the best way to make the most of that journey is to start at the beginning…
LEADERSHIP
There’s a reason Colleen was known at Southwest as the “Queen of Hearts.” Her unique style of Servant’s Heart Leadership is the foundation of the exemplary Culture for which Southwest is known.
LEGACY
Colleen’s legacy lives on through initiatives and recognition programs that reflect her core values and passion for Culture and Customer Service. We celebrate the remarkable impact she continues to have on those at Southwest and beyond.
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