Dave Barnett
Chief Administrative Officer
DeVry University
Why is ACI’s mission important to you: “I believe deeply that education is the means by which we unlock human potential, and that through unlocking human potential we can truly transform the world. Everyone should have access to quality higher education and the opportunity to realize their own personal value.”
Bio: Dave is focused on aligning DeVry leadership and talent to achieving the University’s most important work, while also helping its partners with talent strategies to do the same. He has responsibility for leading our the DeVryWorks partnership strategy, while also driving the direction of Human Resources, Diversity Equity & Inclusion, Public Relations, Communications and Alumni Relations efforts for the University. Barnett previously was DeVry’s Chief Human Resources and University Relations Officer when his primary lens included identifying, attracting, and engaging key talent with a focus on driving exceptional learner and partner outcomes. He also oversaw the communications architecture designed to inform and build a culture of care with colleagues, students and alumni, and foster goodwill with the community and other stakeholders.
Prior to joining the University in 2017, Barnett was the senior director of Culture and Talent Development at Adtalem Global Education, where he guided and drove talent management and culture-shaping efforts across its 10 institutions of higher education. With over 20 years of experience, Barnett has worked with numerous universities and corporations, driving large scale change during times of high growth and turnaround.
He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of Illinois and his MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. A certified master trainer and Targeted Selection Administrator, he holds numerous certifications, including Senior Professional of Human Resources (SPHR) and Registered Corporate Coach (RCC). He has been recognized by the American Society for Training and Development, Training Magazine, and the Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Awards.