Cory Barnes has been named dean of graduate studies for New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.  

Barnes, associate professor of Old Testament and Hebrew, has served on the NOBTS faculty since 2021.  

Jamie Dew, president of NOBTS and Leavell College, voiced his excitement for Barnes to step into the role of dean.  

“Dr. Barnes has a long history of serving NOBTS and Leavell College with great faithfulness and skill,” Dew said. “He’s proven himself to be a strong administrator with pastoral wisdom. We’re very excited to have him in this role and confident that he will strengthen our graduate programs that serve the churches of our convention.” 

NOBTS Provost Norris Grubbs spoke to what Barnes will bring to the position.  

“We are pleased to be able to place someone like Cory in the graduate dean position,” Grubbs said.  

“Dr. Barnes will make an excellent graduate dean. He has excellent administrative skills, the ability to think creatively, and the respect of the faculty. He’s a proven leader who has served NOBTS well. We are excited to have him in this role.” 

Barnes and his wife Kayla originally moved to campus 11 days after they got married in 2011. The couple now has three girls, Zoey (11), Noel (9) and Rymie (2).  

After many years as a student and faculty member, Barnes is thankful to continue to serve in a place that deeply impacted his own life.  

"I am thrilled to be serving as the graduate dean at NOBTS,” Barnes said.  

“As a three-time graduate of NOBTS, I know how much difference our school can make in someone's life and ministry. God continues to call out men and women to serve His Kingdom. He calls pastors to proclaim the Word, missionaries to reach the nations, women and men to serve the church in many roles, and counselors to bring gospel peace to a world marred by sin. I am blessed to serve alongside our outstanding faculty to equip those God has called."