After nearly two decades as the founder and CEO of Clapp Communications, an award-winning communications firm, Barb made the bold decision in 2019 to sell the company and dedicate herself to a deeper mission: creating career opportunities for those who need them most. Having grown up under difficult circumstances herself, Barb understands firsthand the power of access and support in changing lives.

Since stepping into her role at DWD, Barb has transformed the nonprofit from concept to a full-scale national workforce development organization that has served over 9,000 Dwyer Scholars across five states since inception in 2021. Serving underserved individuals, DWD removes barriers to success by providing person-centered case management, need-based wraparound services—such as transportation, childcare, and housing support—free Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) training, and job placement support.