PBSC alumnus Michael Barnett appointed to Palm Beach State College’s District Board of Trustees

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the appointment of Michael Barnett to the Palm Beach State College District Board of Trustees on Feb. 14, 2025, subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate. An alumnus of PBSC, Barnett is a personal injury lawyer with the Shriner Law Group, where he has worked since 2017. 

Michael Barnett is appointed to PBSC's District Board of Trustees.[/caption] For Barnett, the appointment to the College’s District Board of Trustees is chance to champion an institution he is passionate about. “I tell everybody all the time about the second chance Palm Beach State College gave me when it was Palm Beach Community College back in 2002,’’ Barnett said, noting that he enrolled at PBSC to complete his Associate in Arts degree after dropping out of Florida Atlantic University.

“I thought I was ready for higher learning, but I had to take a few years to grow up and realize that my education was the most serious thing for my future,’’ continued Barnett, who went on to complete his bachelor’s degree at the University of South Florida and juris doctor from the University of Miami School of Law. “I certainly wouldn’t be standing here without having had that opportunity.”

“Michael has always been a staunch advocate of Palm Beach State College and I look forward to partnering with him to broaden our mission and impact within Palm Beach County and beyond,” said PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D.

Active in his community, Barnett was previously appointed as a Palm Beach County Commissioner, a member of the Medical Examiners Commission, and a member of the Palm Beach County Solid Waste Authority. Barnett formerly served as Chairman of the Republican Party of Palm Beach County and was instrumental in helping to start the Party’s black and minority outreach program.