BU’s Dustin Barker Making a Name for Himself

Bluefield University student-athlete Dustin Barker is making a name for himself both on and off the athletic field.

Born in Norton, VA, on July 1, 2000, Barker later moved to Pound, VA, where he attended Wise Central High School and excelled both in and out of the classroom. For example, he earned the school’s Linwood Holton Academic Award and was a member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

Barker was also a varsity letterman in football for four years at Wise Central. In fact, he was named Special Teams Player of the Year in 2017 and Mountain 7 Honorable Mention as a linebacker. Now, Barker is a senior at Bluefield University where he studies business administration and plays football for the Rams.

“Dustin is one of the finest young men I’ve ever coached,” said Dewey Lusk, head coach of the Rams football team. “He puts the team first, and he always has a smile on his face. He is the first one to volunteer at every community service event, he makes excellent grades, and he is willing to help anyone on our campus, team or in the community.”

Coach Lusk said Barker also demonstrates tremendous character both on and off the field and has a witty sense of humor. As the long snapper for the Rams, he plays a vital role on special teams.

“The long snapper is valuable to any football team,” Coach Lusk said, “and Dustin is very valuable to our program, not only as a player but as an outstanding teammate, campus and community member, too.”

Like Coach Lusk, teammate Marek Banks said Barker is “very hilarious” and “fun to be around.” Teammate Mykkel Banks added that Barker has a great personality.

“Dustin has such a confident social personality, which makes him good when communicating with others,” Banks said, “and his personality makes him a very likable person.”

After college, Barker plans to pursue a master’s degree and get a job using his education to “get paid good money.”