About Me

Education has always been a part of my life. I was born and raised in Kennesaw, Georgia by two educator parents. I graduated from Harrison High School and was heavily involved in instrumental music (especially the Trombone). After graduation, I attended The University of West Georgia (UWG) and received an Education and Economics Degree. I was active in the Honors College, Model UN, and Academic Team. After graduating, I began to work at UWG as a residence hall director for middle and high school students living on campus and attending college.

In 2002, I moved to Boston to study at Boston College where I received a Master's Degree in Higher Education Administration. During that time, I worked closely with Boston area schools placing student teachers, and I worked at a high school in Boston - BU Academy. In 2004, I returned to UWG and worked in admissions until I left to assume the role of Associate Director of Admissions at Armstrong Atlantic (in Savannah, Georgia) from 2007-2009.

In 2009, I had the pleasure of returning to my alma mater, UWG, to serve as Associate Director of Admissions. Over the ensuing decade, I progressed to Director of Admissions and ultimacy Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management. In this role, I supervised UWG's enrollment operations including admissions, financial aid, international services, adult and veterans services, and orientation; however, I always enjoyed working closely with current students of all ages. In 2018, I received my doctorate from The University of Georgia. Despite this career progression, my ultimate goal has been to make the greatest difference in the world. I believe that includes supporting and educating students at the Middle School Level so that they have the tools necessary to reach their own future goals. I am deeply excited to start my second year at Factory Shoals Middle School!

I am the proud husband of Taffey Cunnien, a counselor at Mason Creek Middle School, and I have a daughter, Amelia, who currently attends Omega Academy. We reside in Douglasville with a house full of dogs and cats (sometimes more than we can count because we foster animals for local shelters).

I can't wait to work with the students of Factory Shoals!

Dr. Justin Barlow