As the CEO of Humane Canada, the federation of humane societies and SPCAs, Barbara convenes and represents the largest animal welfare community in Canada, working to end animal cruelty, improve animal protection and promote the humane treatment of all animals.

Barbara is sought after for her knowledge of policy and public affairs, securing amendments to the Criminal Code, Fisheries Act, Migratory Bird Act and Canadian Environmental Protection Act. In 2019, she secured a ban on cetacean captivity, as well as strengthen animal fighting offences, closed loop holes in the bestiality offences and ensured abusers convicted of animal sexual assault are listed on the Sex Offender Registry. Barbara has advised some of the top organizations in the world on animal welfare policy direction, including working with online giant eBay Inc. to end the illegal ivory trade on its site worldwide.

In her current role, Barbara launched Humane Canada’s Summit for Animals (previously known as the National Animal Welfare Conference), the National Centre for the Prosecution of Animal Cruelty, National Violence Link Coalition and conference, as well as spearheaded the first animal shelter Accreditation program in Canada.

Barbara holds a Master’s in Environmental Education and Communication, is a published author and lecturer, and received the Governor General’s Gold Medal. Formerly, President of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, she currently sits on the Board of PetSmart Charities® of Canada and the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center in Congo. Barbara has been recognized as one of 5 “WOW Woman” in Canada, is a member of Women’s Executive Network and the Council of Women Executives.