Barbara J. Buchanan has a long association with the humanities-history, art, music, libraries and healthcare in the U.S. and in Europe.

Her volunteer work as a board member includes the grey Towers Heritage Association (now president); the Pinchot Institute for Conservation and the Local Committee of the Friends of Grey Towers, a national historic site; the Pike County Historical Society and Public Library; the international Women's Club in Bemen Germany; the Italio-American Association in Genoa, Italy; the Franciscan Health System Foundation; and 1996 Ambassador to Croatia for the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor Foundation.

While living in New Orleans, she had key roles at that city's Museum of Art and was honored for her many works for the city's destitute.

She holds a BA from the University of Minnesota and resides in Milford, Pennsylvania.