Pres. Obama nominates TU alum Barbera for key board

The president named Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera '75 for the board of the State Justice Institute

July 21, 2016

Hon. Mary Ellen Barbera '75 named by Pres. Obama to key justice board
Hon. Mary Ellen Barbera '75 named by Pres. Obama to key justice board

President Barack Obama has nominated the head of the highest court in Maryland, Hon. Mary Ellen Barbera '75, for the board of the State Justice Institute.

The nonprofit helps state courts improve their handling of cases.

Barbera earned her Towson University degree in elementary education. She has been widely recognized for her leadership and commitment to public service. The Daily Record gave her the Maryland Leadership in Law Award in 2007 and in 2008 recognized her as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women. The Maryland State Bar Association awarded her the Rita C. Davidson Award in 2011 and the Advancement of Professional Competence Award in 2012.

"I am honored to be nominated by President Obama to serve on the State Justice Institute’s Board of Directors,” Barbera said in a statement.  “It would be a privilege to work with this unique organization to support our state courts, help address major issues in criminal, civil, juvenile, family, and appellate matters, encourage innovative solutions, and better serve the public.”