PRIDES CROSSING, MA, March 31, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Dr. Kathleen Barnes has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Dr. Barnes has established a distinguished career in higher education leadership and physical therapy, marked by a steadfast commitment to helping others achieve their goals. Progressive leadership roles, innovative contributions and a dedication to student success characterize her professional journey.

In 2020, Dr. Barnes founded K.H. Barnes Advisory Services, where she serves as president, providing strategic guidance and consulting services in higher education. From 2021 to 2025, she served as Neumann University's interim provost, overseeing academic affairs and supporting institutional advancement during a period of transition.

Before her tenure at Neumann University, Dr. Barnes served as interim provost at Endicott College from 2019 to 2020. In this capacity, she oversaw academic operations and played a pivotal role in shaping the college's academic vision. Her leadership was further recognized when she was appointed the sixth president of Endicott College from 2018 to 2019, following the previous president's passing. As president, Dr. Barnes guided the institution through significant change, drawing on her extensive experience in academic administration.

From 2014 to 2018, Dr. Barnes served as senior vice president, dean of the Division of Academic Success, and full professor at Endicott College. She managed tutoring services, supported students requiring medical accommodations and led retention initiatives. The college president often referred to her as "the dean of happiness," reflecting her positive influence on campus culture.

Between 2006 and 2014, Dr. Barnes served as dean of the Division of Academic Success and as an associate professor at Endicott College, focusing on student achievement and faculty development. She previously served as acting dean of the School of Arts and Sciences from 2005 to 2006, providing interim leadership during a critical period for the school.

Her earlier administrative experience includes serving as assistant dean of the School of Arts and Sciences from 2002 to 2004 and director of the physical therapist assistant program and assistant professor from 1998 to 2003 at Endicott College. In these roles, Dr. Barnes was instrumental in transitioning the institution from offering two-year degrees to four-year degrees, aligning with evolving educational standards.

From 1993 to 1998, she coordinated clinical education for the physical therapist assistant program at Endicott College, ensuring high-quality experiential learning opportunities for students. Her foundational work in physical therapy began with positions as a pediatric physical therapist in private practice from 1979 to 2006, at Northshore Education Consortium from 1982 to 1987 and Meeting Street Schools from 1977 to 1982. At Bellevue Healthcare from 1976 to 1977, she gained early experience that shaped her approach to patient care.

Dr. Barnes also held various management positions at CAST Inc. from 1984 to 1993, where she contributed to rehabilitative engineering clinics and participated in pioneering efforts related to universal design and assistive technology.

Throughout her career, Dr. Barnes has been recognized for her expertise in higher education leadership, innovative problem-solving, student retention, and pediatric physical therapy. She is most proud of the positive impact she has had on countless individuals, helping people achieve their dreams over more than three decades as both a physical therapist and educator.

Her professional affiliations reflect her commitment to advancing her fields of expertise. She has been a member of The Registry for College and University Presidents since 2021. She has been involved with organizations such as the Association on Higher Education and Disability from 2003 to 2020, Beverly Main Streets from 2018 to 2020, and the North Shore Chamber of Commerce during the same period. Dr. Barnes contributed her expertise as a board member of InnoVenture Labs Inc., the North Shore Technology Council, and several other regional organizations between 2018 and 2020.

She has maintained long-standing memberships with national organizations, including the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy from 1993 to 2020, the American Physical Therapy Association since 1974, and RESNA from 1978 to 2004. Additionally, she served as chair for the Board of Registration of Allied Health Professions from 2001 to 2010.

Dr. Barnes's educational background has been foundational to her achievements. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy in arts and sciences from Union Institute & University, a Master of Science in physical therapy from the University of Indianapolis, a Bachelor of Science in physical therapy from Quinnipiac University, and an Associate of Arts in liberal studies from Endicott College. She holds certification from the Board of Physical Therapy in the State of Maine.

Her early career was shaped by a passion for helping others—first as a pediatric physical therapist recognized as a pioneer in assistive technology and universal design. At Meeting Street School, she developed creative approaches, such as wheelchair licensing competitions for children aged five to sixteen, that made rehabilitation engaging while fostering independence. At CAST Inc., she ran rehabilitative engineering clinics that contributed significantly to advancements in technology for individuals with disabilities.

A colleague's invitation led Dr. Barnes into higher education at Endicott College, where she taught future therapists before advancing into academic administration. Her involvement with professional associations, such as the American Physical Therapy Association and the Federation of State Boards, further deepened her engagement in educational innovation.

Dr. Barnes attributes her success to unwavering family support—especially that of her husband Eugene F. Barnes III—and credits grit, perseverance and resiliency as key personal qualities that have propelled her forward.

Her civic engagement includes serving on the board of trustees for IYRS School of Technology & Trades since 2023; volunteering with Cummings Foundation from 2020 to 2023; holding board positions with InnoVenture Labs Inc., Beverly Main Streets and North Shore Chamber of Commerce between 2018 and 2020; participating with North Shore Technology Council; and serving as commodore at Eastern Point Yacht Club.

Dr. Barnes's contributions have been recognized through numerous awards: Service Awards for ten, fifteen, twenty and twenty-five years at Endicott College in 2018; Women of Impact Award at Endicott College between 2016 and 2018; Outstanding Service Award from Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy in 2010; Outstanding Service Award from RESNA during 2000-2001; Bright Light Award at Endicott College in both 2019 and 2020; and Excellence in Teaching Award at Endicott College in 1998.

Born in Springfield, Dr. Barnes enjoys sailing, skiing, collegiate ice hockey and spending time with family, including one child and two grandchildren, and friends. She is passionate about researching family genealogy, a pursuit that inspired her to compile a comprehensive book for her granddaughters chronicling their family legacy across generations through stories cherished by their ancestors.

Looking ahead, Dr. Barnes aims to continue making a positive impact through education while enjoying quality time with loved ones, traveling and pursuing consulting opportunities when possible.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

# # #