Barbara Haynes Heyboer has been involved in the health care industry for nearly 50 years as a certified surgical technologist. She was instrumental in forming the West Michigan Surgical Technologist Association and served as treasurer and exam credential committee member for the organization. In 1970, Heyboer was one of the first professionals in the United States to become certified in surgical technology. Since becoming certified, she has mentored others to prepare for the surgical technology certification exam and educated others in becoming a certified surgical technologist. Outside of the health care industry, Heyboer has been active with Michigan Farm Bureau, served as president of the West Michigan Arabian Horse Association in the late 1980s, served as president of the Michigan Horse Council in 1995, sat on the Hudsonville Fair Board in Ottawa County as the 4-H Fair coordinator and was an elected member of the First United Church of Christ Youth Forum Board of Michigan. Her passion for making the best better and providing leadership is what encouraged her to involve herself in each of these organizations.

As a Van Buren County 4-H member, Heyboer was involved in home economics projects, teen leadership and demonstration programs that led to her being presented a Michigan 4-H Key Club Award. In 1984, Heyboer became a Michigan 4-H volunteer in Ottawa County. She is a leader wherever she goes and never hesitates to offer a helping hand. To this day, Heyboer volunteers to count ribbons for the Ottawa County Fair every year.