TIM BARNETT, PRESIDENT & CO-EXE. DIRECTOR

Tim is a dedicated leader, educator, and community advocate who has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals. Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Tim is the youngest of five siblings and was instilled with a deep sense of determination and resilience from an early age.

Tims passion for athletics and education became evident during his formative years at Waggener High School, where he excelled as an all-state performer in basketball, football, and track. Upon graduating in 1992, Tim pursued higher education at Eastern Kentucky University on a basketball scholarship before continuing his academic and athletic journey at Western Nebraska Community College, where he earned an associate's degree in Physical Education in 1995.

His unwavering commitment to personal and academic growth led him to the University of Nevada, Reno, where he proudly represented the institution as a lettered athlete from 1995 to 1997, ultimately graduating in 1999 with a degree in Human Ecology.

Returning to his hometown in 2005 Tim established the esteemed F.O.C.U.S BASKETBALL ACADEMY, a pioneering venture aimed at teaching life skills through the game of basketball. His dedication to youth development and community enrichment was further exemplified by his tenure as one of the coaches of Ballard High School from 2005 to 2011, and the subsequent opening of his own training facility in January 2010.

In honor of his late father, Tim also established the Jesse E. Barnett Jr. Enrichment Center, an organization dedicated to providing free educational support while fostering a safe and inspiring environment while nurturing, mentoring community relationships to support the Center's innovative approach that intertwines basketball training with academic rigor, aiming to empower the next generation of leaders and cultivate global citizens.

Tim’s commitment to social impact and educational equity culminated in his recognition as the recipient of the Community Advocate of the Year Award from The Diversity, Equity, and Poverty Division of JCPS in 2022. His tireless efforts continue to uplift and inspire individuals, leaving an indelible mark on the community he serves.