Hall of Fame 2025: Michael Marder ’77
When he guest lectured for Professor Joseph Morrissey’s Documents of the Deal course, Michael Marder ’77 was thrilled to demystify securitization transactions for the students.
Marder, who is co-managing director and co-founder partner at prominent national firm GreenspoonMarder, sought to impart real-world financial scenarios while giving students a sense of the challenges a day can bring.
“My clients come from all industries and I handle myriad issues,” Marder said. “Big or small, all matters can be broken down to the people involved, and my pleasure is taking care of people.”
Whether it’s offering students insights from his own success story, contributing to student scholarships, or looking to his alma mater for firm’s next great hire, Marder’s extensive support of the College has earned him a place in the Stetson Law Hall of Fame. Marder was formally inducted into the Hall of Fame during a ceremony that took place November 1, 2025 at the Don CeSar on Florida’s St. Pete Beach.
“He’s an important supporter of the College of Law,” said Stetson Law Dean D. Benjamin Barros. “His firm hires our graduates. He’s what any law school dean would want an alum to be in terms of his engagement and support of the institution.”
The road to prominence
Since cofounding his firm with Gerald Greenspoon in 1981, Marder has focused on complex business litigation, transactional law, and real estate. He has sharp acumen in hospitality and vacation ownership law.
From a large timeshare and vacation ownership company to small hospitality businesses, his clients span the industry. Drawing on decades of experience, he works tirelessly to support them in their work, from project planning to administration of their properties. The firm now has grown to more than 225 attorneys and more than 20 office locations across the country. Yet he also remains committed to helping those in need. Marder chairs the Governing Board of Directors and the Advisory Board of the Victoria’s Voice Foundation, a nonprofit that supports initiatives to fight substance use disorder. He is also a member of the American Resort Development Association Chairman’s League.
Staying connected with Stetson
Despite a busy schedule, Marder remains a driving force at Stetson Law.
He generously supported construction of the Advocacy Institute, where the Michael Ellis Marder Courtroom was named in his honor. He and his firm have also contributed to the Center for Advocacy Education, Stetson Law Greatest Needs, Law General Scholarships, and the Honorable Thomas B. McCoun II Scholarship. He has hosted numerous alumni receptions and admitted student events at his home and in Greenspoon Marder locations including Boca Raton, Los Angeles, New York, and Orlando.
A member of Stetson Law’s Board of Overseers, he also has assisted the college in formulating plans for the future of the Tampa Law Center, thereby ensuring the College’s status as a regional leader for generations to come.
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Media contact: Kate Bradshaw
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