Her background in health has spurred her support for health sector growth in Minneapolis. Barbara is very interested in establishing partnerships through biotechnology and learning from other local governments about solutions to municipal problems. She has a strong interest in parks due to her 18 years of service on the Metropolitan Parks & Open Space Commission. She also served on the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area Commission, appointed by the Secretary of the Interior. Barbara was a founding member of the Victory Neighborhood Association (VINA) and was the Chair from 1994-1997. She is a former Girl Scout leader and community volunteer.