Marlon I. Brown, DPA

Dr. Marlon I. Brown serves as director of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).  He leads the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating nearly two million individuals and entities covering health professionals and facilities, skilled-trades and other professional occupations, corporations and securities, construction services, cannabis businesses, and fire services.  LARA also supports the work of Michigan’s Public Service Commission, Liquor Control Commission, Indigent Defense Commission, Unarmed Combat Commission, Tax Tribunal, and Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules.

Prior to his appointment as director, Marlon served as the department’s acting director, chief administrative officer, and director of policy and legislative affairs.  In addition, he has held positions at the Michigan Supreme Court, the Michigan Department of Transportation, and the State Budget Office.

Marlon earned a bachelor's degree in political science from American University, a master's degree in public administration from the University of Delaware, and a doctorate in public administration from Valdosta State University.  He is a member of the National Council of the American Society for Public Administration, the leading organization dedicated to advancing scholarship and practice within public service.