Barbara lost her dad to pancreatic cancer in 2010 and since 2012, has been volunteering with the organization to make a difference in the lives of others affected by pancreatic cancer. She is a great leader through her work as a Volunteer Advisory Council member, working with staff on the development of the Community Engagement program. She also leads and executes successful PurpleStride events in the Tidewater, Va., Affiliate, calling on her experience in the U.S. Navy and her passion for serving others.
“I spent 31 years in the Navy with ever-increasing levels of responsibility, leading people and solving problems. The opportunity to take on a leadership role for the Tidewater Affiliate not only uses skills I’ve developed over the years, but it satisfies my desire to continue to be useful in a large organization. The core leadership role structure in the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network allows for many diverse and valuable people to work together for a common and very worthwhile goal.”
Barbara comes from a long line of volunteers, as her parents set an example for her and four siblings by doing so themselves. Her volunteer experience sparked her interest in healthcare and inspired her to pursue a Master’s in Public Health.