David L. Barnett, Ph.D., Elected Chair of SACSCOC Board of Trustees

January 13, 2026

DECATUR, Ga. – The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is pleased to announce the election of David L. Barnett, Ph.D., President of Brenau University, as Chair of the SACSCOC Board of Trustees, effective December 9, 2025.

Barnett was affirmed by his peers at the Commission’s Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, to lead the 77-member Board of Trustees, which provides governance and strategic oversight for SACSCOC’s accreditation and quality assurance activities.

As a member of the SACSCOC Board for five years, Barnett has served in multiple capacities, including as a member of the Board’s Executive Council. In his new role as Chair, he succeeds Blaine Hanson, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Lees-McRae College.

“I am humbled to have been selected to lead the Board of Trustees for SACSCOC in a continuation of my service to the Commission,” Barnett said. “My career in higher education, which includes service at Level IV, Level V, and Level VI institutions, has deepened my appreciation for the Principles of Accreditation and the vital role they play in advancing institutional quality. I look forward to working with SACSCOC President Stephen Pruitt in support of our shared mission to strengthen higher education across our region.”

Barnett holds a Ph.D. in educational leadership and organizational development and a Specialist in Education from the University of Louisville, a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts from Mercer University.

In addition to his leadership roles at SACSCOC and Brenau University, Barnett serves on the boards of several civic and cultural organizations and remains actively engaged in community service.

 

Media Contact:
Eric Mann
Director of Public Information
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
emann@sacscoc.org  | 404-994-6576