COSSPP donors establish new leadership lecture series

College of Social Sciences and Public Policy donors Mark and Marianne Barnebey helped establish a new lecture series, the College announced Wednesday, Nov. 15.

Mark and Marianne Barnebey with Dean Tim Chapin, Ph.D., at a DURP guest lecture in 2022.

The Barnebey Leadership Lecture Series, which premieres in Spring 2024, will bring alumni, friends, and national leaders to speak about the critical role that leadership plays in their lives and careers. Speakers will reflect on their own leadership experiences and give practical guidance to not only students, but the greater Tallahassee community.

The Barnebeys have been consistent supporters of Florida State University and the College, from which Mark Barnebey is a three-time graduate (B.S. Finance ’78; M.S. Urban and Regional Planning ’83; J.D. FSU College of Law ’83).

A previous generous gift helped to establish the Mark & Marianne Barnebey Planning & Development Lab for the College’s Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP), from which Mark received his Master’s Degree in 1983.

“The Barn” as it is affectionately called, has become an important resource for connecting DURP students and faculty with public and private partners to provide capacity and innovative planning for the sustainable growth and long-term viability of Florida communities, and providing students with real-world planning experience.

The Barnebeys have also been very generous in offering their time and expertise with students over the years, having come back to the College for multiple presentations and classroom visits.

Mark Barnebey is Board Certified in City, County and Local Government Law and has had an award-winning career in land use and local government law for the past 40 years. Currently he’s a Principal with Blalock Walters, P.A. in Bradenton, Florida. He was also honored as a 2023 COSSPP Distinguished Alumni.

Marianne Barnebey has had an accomplished career in public service, presently serving as the Councilwoman for Ward Two in Bradenton.

Dates, speakers and topics for the leadership lecture series will be announced prior to the Spring 2024 semester. For information on more COSSPP events, click here.