Heritage Christian University proudly announces that Mrs. Janet Barrier will be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Divinity at the 2026 commencement ceremony on May 2, 2026.
Janet Barrier has lived in Alabama for most of her life and graduated from Waterloo High School. She holds degrees from the University of Tennessee and the University of North Alabama. She has been married to Wayne Barrier for 56 years, and they have four children and seven grandchildren. She was a mathematics teacher in public and private high schools for 17 years, and taught in higher education for 25 years at Faulkner University and Heritage Christian University.
Her involvement in mission work began in 1978 while working full-time. She retired in 1996 so she could devote her time fully to mission work. Janet and Wayne have worked in the United States, India, Indonesia, Singapore, Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, Africa, Vietnam, Nepal, and Peru. She has taught ladies’ classes in these countries, helped fund and operate 16 Bible schools, and conducted radio programs in most of them. Janet and Wayne’s four children and six of their grandchildren also work in missions. Janet travels to Asia at least twice each year and to other mission fields at least once a year to coordinate ongoing campaign and educational programs.
“When people think of Heritage Christian University, Janet Barrier is one of the first names that comes to mind. She and her entire family have dedicated themselves to the growth and success of this institution and the global church,” said Dr. Nathan Daily, Vice President of Academics. “Through decades of teaching courses as well as through her extensive mission work and helping found and deliver programming through the Center for Missions Training and Information, she has greatly contributed to defining the identity of our institution. It is a true pleasure that this year we are able to honor one of the great names who has helped build and sustain our university.”
In addition to their mission work, the Barriers help with a training program in the States for individuals interested in mission work, entitled The Center for Missions Training and Information. They also sponsor and conduct an annual retreat for mission workers and supporters at Maywood Christian Camp.
Janet is an exceptional woman who has dedicated her life to mission work and furthering the Kingdom of God. It is a true pleasure to recognize her for this well-deserved honor.
