Dr. Wayne Barnard was appointed university dean for spiritual formation in 2006. Previously, he served assistant provost for student development and dean of campus life. He also has served as assistant professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences since 1995.

A 1980 graduate of Abilene Christian with a B.A. in biblical studies, he joined the ACU staff in 1991 after serving as a minister for Churches of Christ in Universal City, Irving and Abilene. As a therapist he counseled ACU students and employees from 1991-95 before his faculty appointment, and he was named dean of students in 1996. He also earned a M.A. in marriage and family therapy from St. Mary's University and his Ph.D. in human development and family studies with an emphasis in college student development at Texas Woman's University. He is a Texas Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Texas Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NBCC).

Barnard also is a member of American and Texas Associations for Marriage and Family Therapy, American Counseling Association, American Association of Christian Counselors,National and Texas Councils on Family Relations, Association of Christians in Student Development, National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, and the American College Personnel Association.

He has served on the board of Taylor County Child Protective Services, Habitat for Humanity and Lions Club. He is a member of Highland Church of Christ where he serves as worship minister and speaks frequently for churches and other organizations at conferences, workshops and seminars.

He is married to Dr. Mimi Simons Barnard, a 1981 graduate of ACU, who currently serves as assistant professor of English and director of faculty enrichment. They have a daughter, Katie, and a son, Colin.