Marlon I. Brown

Degree: 2008, MPA

Job Title: Director, Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Dr. Marlon I. Brown (MPA '08) serves as director of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), which protects people and promotes business in Michigan through transparent and accessible regulatory solutions. His daily career duties involve overseeing and managing the state government agency responsible for the vast majority of Michigan’s regulatory environment. The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) regulates nearly 2 million individuals and entities, including health professionals and facilities, skilled trades and other professional occupations, corporations and securities, construction services, cannabis businesses, fire services, and more. LARA administers over 70 different state statutes, has a workforce of more than 1,600 employees, and operates on a budget of $626.0 million for fiscal year 2026. Marlon’s position as department director is appointed by the governor and he serves as a member of the governor’s cabinet.

Previously, Marlon served as the department’s chief administrative officer and director of policy and legislative affairs. He has also held positions at the Michigan Supreme Court and the State Budget Office. In addition to graduating from the University of Delaware with an MPA, Marlon earned a bachelor's degree in political science from American University and a doctorate in public administration from Valdosta State University. He is a fellow in the National Academy of Public Administration, a leader in the American Society for Public Administration, and a member of the Board of Directors for the Council on Licensure, Enforcement, and Regulation.  

A proud Delaware Blue Hen, Marlon credits much of his success to the education and experience he gained at the Biden School. As an IPA research assistant, he worked in regional development and planning, acquiring skills that enabled Marlon to serve on municipal planning commissions, a county economic development corporation board, and as a city council member and mayor pro tem for the City of Mason, Michigan. Marlon was also a Legislative Fellow in the Delaware Senate from 2007 to 2008. This experience not only inspired him to run for elective office but also strengthened his writing and analytical skills, provided a strong understanding of legislative processes, and helped him appreciate diverse political perspectives and interests. This has directly contributed to Marlon’s career in public administration at the state and local government level.