University of South Alabama School of Computer and Information Sciences Dean Dr. Alec Yasinsac has appointed Harvey “Les” Barnett, Jr. as director of the new USA Center for Forensics, Information Technology and Security.

A businessman from Mobile, Barnett co-founded Omniphone, a telecommunications equipment design and manufacturing company in 1988.  He served as president and chief executive of Omniphone for 20 years before retiring in 2008. Barnett also hosted a weekly radio show “Another Side” which aired statewide on American Family Radio for several years. 

His publications include many pieces about the telecommunications industry which have appeared in trade magazines.

In 2007, Barnett was appointed to the Alabama Educational Television Commission by Gov. Bob Riley. He currently serves as the Commissioner from the First Congressional District.

A USA alumnus, Barnett has served on the Advisory Board for the School of Computer and Information Sciences for the past decade.  He also serves on the board of directors for the Alabama Forest Owners Association and the National Federation of Independent Business Leadership Council for Alabama.