Hershell Barnes completed his undergraduate studies at Texas Tech University in 1967, and in 1970, he graduated with honors from Texas Tech University School of Law. He was part of the Law School's inaugural graduating class and served as a member of the Law Review.
 
Hershell specialized in labor and employment law, obtaining board certification in the field. After serving as the section head of the Labor and Employment Law Section at Haynes and Boone, he founded his own specialized labor and employment law firm, Barnes & Harrington, P.C. Throughout his career, Hershell actively participated in various associations related to labor and employment law, earning recognition for his valuable contributions. He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps and the Army National Guard Jag Corps.
 
As the first Texas Tech Law alumnus and third president to serve on the Texas Tech Law School Foundation Board, Hershell dedicated significant time and effort supporting Texas Tech Law. In 2007, that dedication was honored with the inaugural Texas Tech University School of Law Distinguished Service Award. Moreover, his commitment to the Law School and the legal community led to the creation of an Alumni Association Award in his honor. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated dedication and goodwill as ambassadors for the Law School and the community at large.
 
Hershell remained an engaged member of the Law School's Foundation Board of Trustees until his passing in July 2011.