FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy (COSSPP) launched the Barnebey Leadership Lecture Series with the inaugural talk by Jorge Gonzalez on February 28, 2025.
Gonzalez (B.S. Political Science ’87; M.S. Urban & Reginal Planning ’89) shared wisdom on leadership with FSU students, faculty, and staff. Currently serving as the chief executive officer of The St. Joe Company and as a member of FSU’s Board of Trustees, he spoke about principles of leadership and encouraging team growth that can be applied to any field.
“Jorge Gonzalez delivered an inspiring and insightful talk that truly exemplifies the essence of leadership. His words not only motivated our students but also challenged them to think critically about their roles as future leaders,” said COSSPP Dean Tim Chapin, Ph.D. “We are immensely grateful to Mark and Marianne Barnebey for their unwavering commitment to student success through the creation of this lecture series. Their generosity enables us to bring accomplished leaders like Jorge to our campus, enriching our community with invaluable perspectives and guidance.”
The St. Joe Company is a Florida-based real estate developer operating in the residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors. St. Joe has developed numerous communities and owns a broad portfolio, including apartments, shopping centers, offices, industrial parks, hotels, restaurants, golf courses, marinas, beach clubs, and a private resort club.
Long-time FSU supporters Mark and Marianne Barnebey established this leadership lecture series to promote student success and excellence. The series introduces outstanding alumni, friends, and national leaders who speak about the critical role of leadership in their lives and careers. Speakers reflect on their experiences and give practical guidance to students and the greater Tallahassee community in their lectures.
Mark Barnebey is a three-time FSU graduate (B.S. Finance ’78; M.S. Urban and Regional Planning ’83; J.D. ’83) and a 2023 COSSPP Distinguished Alumnus, currently serving as a principal with Blalock Walters, P.A. in Bradenton, Florida. He 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.
Marianne Barnebey has had an accomplished career in public service, currently serving as the Councilwoman for Ward Two in Bradenton for the nineteenth year. Additionally, she has served on boards such as ArtCenter Manatee, the Service Club of Manatee County, and the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization.
In addition to the Barnebey Leadership Lecture Series, the Barnebeys have established the Barnebey Planning & Development Lab within the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) at FSU. This lab collaborates with public and private partners and provides innovative planning and technical assistance for the sustainable growth of Florida communities.
To learn more about the Mark and Marianne Barnebey Planning & Development lab housed in DURP, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/barn. For more information about what’s happening at FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, visit cosspp.fsu.edu.
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