Barbara Youngman, CPP, a key contributor to PayrollOrg for nearly 30 years, was presented with the Board of Directors Award today during the 44th Annual Payroll Congress Opening General Session.

Shortly after Youngman earned her Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification in 1998, she joined PayrollOrg and began her volunteer work on the Ask an Expert Committee.

With a specialty in wage and hour compliance, Youngman became a highly sought after member of the National Speakers Bureau, known for sharing valuable insights and examples from her experience.

“Barbara has been an invaluable member of PayrollOrg and of the PAYO’s Board of Directors for many years,” said PayrollOrg Executive Director Dan Maddux. “Her steadfast dedication to the growth of the payroll industry and the professional development of our members has set a high bar. She is the embodiment of payroll excellence and leadership.”

Through contributions to the PayTrain® Learning Advisory Board, the Certification Board, and over a dozen subcommittees/task forces, she has helped shape payroll training and industry best practices.

Locally, she has supported the growth of PayrollOrg chapters with more than 15 years of service on the CHAMPS Committee and has served in multiple officer roles, including president of the Dallas Chapter.

On a national level, Youngman was named Payroll Woman of the Year in 2009. That same year, she began her term on the Board of Advisors, where she endorsed increasing global payroll resources for PayrollOrg members.

Youngman began her work as a PayrollOrg Officer as Vice President in 2012 and was elected to the prestigious role of President in 2015. During her tenure, she helped lead PayrollOrg through the early days of its global expansion and encouraged greater member participation, highlighting the importance of actively investing in oneself.

After a successful presidency, she joined PayrollOrg’s Board of Directors, where she served diligently for 10 years before concluding her final term recently at the 2026 Annual Business Meeting, held April 28.

Throughout her payroll journey, Youngman has had the support of her husband Brent and their three sons, Tyler, Parker, and James.

Many at PayrollOrg have been privileged to know Youngman as a trusted mentor and friend.

Today, we honor her for the stewardship and dedication she has offered PayrollOrg and its members.

 “Thank you, everyone. Thank you, Dan. Ten years ago, Dan saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself," Youngman said.  "I truly thank you for that and for giving me the confidence I have used over the last several years. I couldn’t have done this without all the leadership that has come before me. If you’re out there and can open the door for someone, do that. Embrace this. Be you. That’s important.”


 

Bryan Kirk is the Senior Writer and Editor of Membership Publications for PayrollOrg. Emily West is a freelance writer in Nashville, Tenn.