The James Madison Institute, in celebration of its 25th year advocating policies that advance individual liberty, limited government and free markets, has scheduled a gala anniversary reception and dinner Wednesday, March 13, on the Florida State University campus.
"This is a landmark year for us," said Valerie Wickboldt, vice president of communications for the Tallahassee-based public policy organization.
"We're commemorating 25 years of helping to shape Florida's future, and the staff has been planning this gala for the whole year. We're going all out," Wickboldt said.
The theme is "Liberty, Leadership, Legacy." JMI will offer a video review of its accomplishments over the past two and a half decades, including a tribute to its founder,J. Stanley Marshal.
Marshal was president of FSU from February 1969 to August 1976, and from 1987 to 2000 -- after establishing JMI as a nationally recognized research and education think tank involved in the battle of ideas -- served as its president and CEO. He now is vice chairman of the board of directors.
Featured speakers include the Heritage Foundations president, Edwin Feulner, and its president-elect, Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C. Special guests who also have confirmed are Gov. Rick Scott, Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam and Speaker of the House Will Weatherford.
"We're still working on the lineup of speakers," Wickboldt said.
She said dress is "business attire" because "it's on a Wednesday night and we want people to be able to come straight from work and feel comfortable."
The reception is at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. March 13at the University Center Club at FSU. For JMI members, tickets are $100; nonmembers, $125. Ticket: $100; Nonmember Ticket: $125. Click here to purchase tickets.
Reach Nancy Smith at nsmith@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859.
