FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, November 16, 2005

GOVERNOR BARBOUR APPOINTS BARRY TO
MISSISSIPPI BOARD OF MENTAL HEALTH

(Jackson, Miss.)—Governor Haley Barbour today announced the appointment of John Richard “Rick” Barry, of Meridian, to the State Board of Mental Health. The board is designed to ensure that quality services and opportunities are provided to people who experience problems with mental illness, alcohol and/or drug abuse, and developmental disabilities.

“Rick is well-qualified to serve in this capacity,” said Governor Barbour. “With his extensive experience in legal and health matters, I feel confident that Rick will serve the people of Mississippi well.”

Barry has been a partner with Bourdeaux and Jones Law Firm since 1979. He is the board attorney for the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors, as well as the counsel for the Meridian Housing Authority and the Greater Meridian Health Clinic. Barry has worked as a part-time instructor of accounting at Meridian Community College and has served on the board of directors of Northwood Country Club, the Ole Miss Alumni group, and the Meridian/Lauderdale County Chamber of Commerce. He is a member of the American and Mississippi Bar Association, past member of the Mississippi State Bar Board of Bar Commissioners, and past president of the Fellows of Mississippi Young Lawyers. From 2002 to 2003, Barry served on the Mississippi State Bar Planning Committee.

He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public administration from the University of Mississippi, where he also earned his juris doctorate. Barry is married to the former Cheri Merritt; together, they have three children: Jennifer, Jay, and Merritt.

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