Barbie was born and raised in Marquette, graduating from Marquette Senior High School and Northern Michigan University. She has been in the early childhood field for over 45 years and loves working with parents and supporting their efforts to meet the demands of working and caring for their children. One change Barbie has seen over the years is an increase in the devastation of addiction in young families. She became interested in FAN at a conference in the Soo a few years ago. "FAN brings the whole community together to support one another without stigma or judgment," Barbie states. "I believe Marquette County can support our residents and help protect our children from this crisis. I am looking forward to Marquette County becoming a healthy environment for everyone."