Politics and Performance: Christian Barnard’s Dual Path to Change
Double major Christian Barnard ’26 explored political systems and cultural expression, finding meaning in both.
By Kate Vander Vort ’27
When Christian Barnard ’26 came to Santa Clara University from Denver, Colorado, he chose to pursue two fields that, at first glance, might seem very different: political science and theater. But for Barnard, the connection between them was clear from the start.
My two areas of study are not only academic interests, but the two sides of the coin of change; politics is a way to better the institutions of our world while theater can better our culture.
Throughout his time at SCU, Barnard explored both sides of that idea through his academic work and campus involvement. He served as Treasurer of the Theater Honors Society, a Student Arts Representative, and a Government Ethics fellow with the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics. Across each of these roles, he balanced leadership, creativity, and a focus on ethical engagement.
Bridging Theory and Practice
One of Barnard’s most meaningful academic experiences came through his work with the Markkula Center.
“Working with the Markkula Center was my most valuable academic experience at SCU because it combined the theory of ethics with the practicality of elections,” he said. That combination of theory and real-world application also shaped his professional experiences. Barnard worked as a research intern for the Santa Clara Voter Registrar, contributed to institutional research at Washington Analysis, and served as a teaching aide in workshops at the Pruno Fund, a non-profit that provides assistance to wrongfully convicted individuals.
Exploring Ideas On and Off the Stage
Christian Barnard and Kristin Hill '25 in SCU's production of 42nd Street, May-June 2024.
Barnard’s academic interests took shape through both research and performance. In political science, he explored topics that had long interested him, including rentierism and the resource curse, which became the focus of his final presentation.
In theater, he brought those same skills into a collaborative setting. As a co-director for The Odd Couple and The Odd Couple Female Version, Barnard saw the productions as an opportunity to develop his leadership and bring out the best in those around him.
Shaping Perspective
Certain courses also played a key role in shaping Barnard’s perspective.
“Money in Politics with Anne Baker gave me the tools to understand my frustrations with our system and how to evaluate national actors through how their money talks,” he said.
He also credits Farid Senzai’s Middle Eastern Politics course and senior seminar with reorienting his global perspective.
Finding Balance
Outside of the classroom, Barnard found moments to slow down and recharge. His favorite place to study was on the benches under the wisteria tree in the Mission Gardens, where he could step away from the pace of daily life.
That sense of balance is something he encourages others to prioritize.
Many people will tell you to do everything; there’s value in making sure that you get the most out of your time, but remember that some alone-time and recharge time are still important parts of that experience. Do not discredit the self-maintenance in favor of ‘maximizing your time.’
Off campus, one of his favorite spots was Hungry Hound, a local, family-run restaurant where he built connections over time.
Looking Ahead
As he reflects on his time at SCU, Barnard is most proud of the impact he has made beyond the university through programs like the Pruno Fund and the Markkula Center.
After graduation, he plans to gain work experience in the political science field before pursuing graduate education.
For Barnard, his time at Santa Clara has been about exploring different ways to create change, both within institutions and through culture, and understanding how those two paths can work together.
Christian Barnard in SCU's production of Ken Ludwig's The Game's Afoot, November 2023.