After losing her husband to cancer at a very young age, Barbara Brown began to evaluate the way she was living her life. Being involved with health care seemed to be the natural focus for her volunteer efforts. In 1989 she joined the Women's Board of California Pacific Medical Center where, through the Debutante Ball, the Board raises funds for various needs of the medical center. When she joined the Community Council in 2000, she chaired the Council's annual fundraising evening six consecutive years. Under her leadership, the ‘Science and Soul Celebration” doubled its attendance, contributing significant funding to the Institute’s programs.

Barbara helped to found the Parca Auxiliary on the Peninsula to help families of children with special needs. She has also volunteered with the SF Symphony, chairing the Patrons dinner for the Black and White Ball.

She considers her three daughters to be her greatest achievement, and now her five grandchildren. For years she was involved with her children's schools as a volunteer for fundraisers, boards and capital campaigns. Her adult children are following in her footsteps, with their own interests in philanthropic endeavors.

Barbara enjoys the arts, gardening, walking, Pilates and entertaining.