Per Bruun Distinguished Service Award

Michael Barnett, PE, BE.CE, is selected as the recipient of the 2026 Per Bruun Distinguished Service Award by the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association. Named in honor of the University of Florida’s first Director of Coastal Engineering and lead founder of FSBPA, the award is one of the Association’s highest honors and recognizes truly outstanding contributions to the preservation and management of Florida’s beaches.

Few individuals better embody that purpose than Mike Barnett. His more than 40-year career reflects the very qualities that Per Bruun championed—technical excellence, practical innovation, collaborative leadership, and an enduring commitment to protecting Florida's coastal resources.

Mike’s remarkable career includes service with the Sea Grant Extension Program, decades in the private sector supporting coastal management projects and programs, and a key role in creating the first Beach Preservation Technology Conference. Among his many accomplishments, Mike served as Chief of FDEP’s Bureau of Beaches and Coastal Systems, where his exceptional leadership guided the bureau through the 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons, the Governor’s Coastal High Hazard Study, the Statewide Beach Habitat Conservation Plan, and Deepwater Horizon, all while elevating one of the nation’s most comprehensive beach management programs to national recognition.

Perhaps Mike's greatest contribution has been his unwavering commitment to building institutions rather than simply completing projects. He helped strengthen the policies, funding strategies, and technical standards that continue to guide Florida's beach management program today.

For countless contributions to Florida’s beaches, Mike was enthusiastically nominated by Craig Kruempel, Lisa Armbruster, Virginia Barker, Kevin Bodge, Steve Boutelle, Lainie Edwards, Greg Garis, Michael Jenkins, Tony McNeal, Brett Moore, Tom Pierro, and Michael Poff. We are honored to recognize Mike for his friendship, humor, and dedication to beaches, and wish him all the best in retirement.

Bob Dean Coastal Research Award



Kevin Bodge, PhD, PE, is this year’s recipient of the Bob Dean Coastal Research Award. Named in honor of one of the most influential coastal engineers of our time, this distinguished award recognizes individuals who have conducted outstanding research and investigations into beach and coastal processes, contributing to improved beach management and the resilience of our shorelines. The award is particularly fitting for Dr. Bodge, whose career of more than 45 years has been dedicated to advancing our understanding of coastal systems and translating that knowledge into practical solutions that benefit Florida’s beaches and coastal communities.

Through technical publications, conference presentations, expert testimony, and project investigations, Kevin has helped decision-makers better understand complex coastal processes and their implications for shoreline protection. His ingenuity is reflected in numerous groundbreaking approaches, such as the development of a sloped “turtle-friendly berm” to improve project performance while protecting sea turtle habitat, nearshore disposal of not-quite beach quality sand, and mitigation reefs using articulated concrete coquina topped mats, just to name a few. His achievements as a researcher and practitioner have truly made a lasting impact on Florida’s coast.

Beyond his technical and research contributions, Kevin has been an influential educator and mentor within the engineering community and the classroom, including through his engaging and entertaining “Beaches 101” workshops and colorful artwork. Kevin was also instrumental in creating the National Conference on Beach Preservation Technology, which has become a premier professional forum for sharing advancements in coastal engineering, research, and beach management.

Dr. Kevin Bodge was nominated by Mike McGarry in recognition of his professional leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing sound, resilient engineering solutions for coastal communities—particularly in Brevard County. While Kevin may be retiring next year, his mentorship of the next generation of coastal engineers will continue to further expand the reach and significance of his contributions.

Richard E. Bonner – Jacqueline J. Keiser Award

We are pleased to announce that Milan A. Mora, PE, is the recipient of the prestigious Richard E. Bonner – Jacqueline J. Keiser Award in recognition of his exemplary service with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District. For the past seven years, Milan has dedicated his career to the protection, restoration, and resilience of Florida’s beaches, inlets, and coastal communities, serving as a chief architect and champion of one of the nation’s largest and most complex coastal programs.

Throughout his tenure with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Milan has demonstrated the outstanding service, leadership, and partnership that this award represents. He oversaw more than 40 active projects, military dredging, and interagency initiatives, helping safeguard local economies, critical infrastructure, and coastal habitats. Most recently, he oversaw the rapid funding and implementation of a $32 million emergency beach restoration project in Duval County, placing more than one million cubic yards of sand along 10 miles of shoreline. He also spearheaded efforts to utilize dredged sand from the Tampa Harbor navigation project to stabilize the rapidly eroding shoreline of Egmont Key, helping protect critical marine and cultural resources.



Most notably, Milan’s pragmatic diplomacy helped numerous local governments navigate complex real estate requirements and preserve federal participation in their projects. His ability to build partnerships and find practical solutions has been instrumental in advancing coastal projects throughout Florida.

Nominated by Jackie Keiser and Charlie Hunsicker, this award reflects Milan’s collaborative spirit, passion for public service, and the indelible legacy he is leaving along 125 miles of Florida’s coastline. As he moves on to his next professional chapter as Chief of the Central & South Branch, Programs and Project Management Division, for the USACE Latin America & Caribbean District, FSBPA extends its deepest appreciation for his extraordinary service to the Association, the State of Florida, and the Nation.

Public Service Award

Bob Glassen, known throughout the coastal community as “Beach Bob,” is the recipient of the 2026 FSBPA Public Service Award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to helping Florida’s coastal communities navigate the complex world of federal disaster funding and beach restoration.

Throughout his career at FEMA, Bob has become a trusted resource for local governments seeking to understand federal funding requirements, identify eligible projects, and navigate the process of seeking disaster assistance for beach repairs. His knowledge of FEMA programs and accessible approach has helped communities turn complicated federal requirements into actionable guidance.

Bob has also generously shared his expertise with the FSBPA community, presenting at several conferences and dedicating countless hours to helping communities understand current and emerging technologies for documenting incident-related sand loss. Those who have attended Bob’s presentations will also remember his ability to make complicated concepts both understandable and memorable. His “Pappa-G” shorthand for FEMA’s rulebook for applying for federal disaster assistance and his infamous “sandbox” analogy for explaining depth of closure have become memorable training tools for Florida’s coastal professionals.

What sets Bob apart is not only his depth of knowledge, but his genuine commitment to helping communities succeed. His accessibility, generosity in sharing his expertise, and dedication to public service have made a lasting impact on beach management and coastal resilience throughout Florida.

Bob was nominated by Lauren Floyd, Charlie Hunsicker, Tom Pierro, and Morjana Signorin in recognition of his exceptional public service and his unwavering commitment to Florida’s coastal communities.

2026 Legislative Awards

Friend of the Beach Award 

Philip Wayne “Griff” Griffitts, Jr., Florida House of Representatives (District 6), is the recipient of the 2026 Friend of the Beach Award by the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association. This award recognizes an individual whose dedication, leadership, and tireless efforts have made a lasting difference in protecting and preserving Florida’s beaches. 

For Representative Griffitts, his commitment to Panama City Beach and its coastal resources is deeply personal. A lifelong Bay County resident, he has spent his career working to strengthen and protect the communities and natural resources that make Florida’s Gulf Coast so special. 

His record of public service began long before his election to the Florida House of Representatives in 2022. He served nine years on the Bay County Planning Commission, six years on the Panama City Beach Civil Service Board, and on the Bay County Tourist Development Council before being appointed to the Bay County Commission in 2016. Representing District 5, which includes Panama City Beach, he went on to serve as chairman of the commission.  

In 2022, Representative Griffitts brought his passion for his community and decades of experience to the Florida House of Representatives, where he continued serving the people of Bay County and Northwest Florida. His legislative service was built upon years of firsthand experience with the challenges facing coastal communities, from infrastructure and economic development to resilience and the protection of Florida’s unique natural resources.  

In 2026, his behind the scenes efforts in the House were critical to prevent potentially harmful legislation from impacting the statewide beach program and areas of critical state concern. This year, Representative Griffitts was tapped to serve as Visit PBC’s President & CEO, a position he is uniquely qualified for and which situates him perfectly to leverage his decades of experience to navigate the intersection of government, industry, natural resource protection, and community. 

Legislative Award 

Kimberly Berfield, Florida House of Representatives (District 58), is the recipient of the 2026 Legislative Award by the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association. This award goes to a deserving and committed state or national lawmaker for significant contributions and outstanding leadership in support of the management of Florida’s beaches. 

Representative Kim Berfield has dedicated much of her career to public service and to the communities in Pinellas County. As a lifelong resident of the county, she understands firsthand the importance of Florida’s beaches as treasured natural resources, but also as vital components of our economy, tourism industry, environment, storm protection, and quality of life. 

In the Legislature, Representative Berfield has championed issues important to all Florida's coastal communities. In 2024, she co-sponsored legislation addressing the sampling of beach waters, reflecting her recognition that protecting Florida's beaches also means protecting the health and safety of the millions who enjoy them. She also co-sponsored HM 1411, which called on Congress to direct the Army Corps to amend its easement policies and proceed with critical beach projects in Florida without delay. 

During the 2026 Legislative Session, her commitment to sound policy and adequate funding for Florida’s beaches was unwavering. She worked tirelessly to ensure legislation affecting the critical erosion designation did not undermine decades of progress. While FSBPA supported the concept, a compromise could not be found, and Representative Berfield’s efforts were pivotal to guarantee the bill did not progress without a proper analysis of the unintended consequences. Her efforts to protect Florida’s beaches did not stop with policy. She simultaneously fought for adequate funding in a lean budget, which yielded an additional $14.1 million for the beach management program. Representative Berfield’s willingness to engage with stakeholders, seek workable solutions, and stand up for Florida’s beaches demonstrated the leadership and commitment the Legislative Award represents. 

Three Weeks Until the 2026 Florida Resilience Conference!

Three weeks until the start of the 2026 Florida Resilience Conference, and we hope you will be there to learn about the latest policy and funding issues affecting beaches and resilience initiatives in Florida. The conference agenda is set, with three days of presentations and opportunities for professional exchange, featuring expert instruction on beach management, energy, gray/green infrastructure, and smart planning.

Be sure to catch our keynote speakers: Sen. Ana Maria Rodríguez, District 40, who will deliver the Opening Legislative Keynote; Eddy Bouza, Chief Resilience Officer, who will discuss statewide resilience initiatives and Florida’s ongoing efforts to help communities prepare for flooding and other environmental challenges; and Col. Brandon Bowman, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District, who will deliver the USACE Jacksonville District Commander’s Update, a long-standing cornerstone of the conference agenda.

FSBPA is especially excited about this year’s beaches program, which includes state and federal updates on beach and emergency management funding and policy issues, local government coastal project discussions, and much more. Please plan to stay through Friday's closing session and hear FDEP's regulatory updates and USACE Jacksonville District discussions on environmental compliance.

Last but not least, we would like to thank our sponsors and exhibitors for generously supporting the event. Please be sure to thank them at the conference! The event would not be possible without their financial support. 

Why You Should Attend This Year’s Conference:



• Discuss the latest developments in beach management.
• Catch up with colleagues and meet new ones from around the state.
• Hear from state and federal agencies—and ask the tough questions.
• Learn from one another’s experiences.
• Earn 13.50 professional development hours.
• Renew your passion for Florida’s beaches!

Things to do in Charlotte Harbor

Make the most of your time in Southwest Florida! From sunset cruises and kayaking to beautiful beaches, wildlife experiences, jet skis, and local attractions, there’s plenty to explore around Charlotte Harbor. Discover activities and adventures near Sunseeker Resort and make the most of your conference stay.

2026 Florida Resilience Conference Sponsor Recognition!

Even More Opportunities to Advance Resiliency - Southwest Florida Resiliency Summit

The sixth annual Southwest Florida resiliency Summit is a regional, one-day event held on September 22 this year, the day preceding the 2026 Florida Resilience Conference, at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center (75 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950), hosted by the Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership. Tickets are free, but space is limited, so advance registration at https://www.chnep.org/swfl-resiliency-summit is required.

This in-person event will have numerous networking opportunities to allow participants to build new connections and collaborations. Topics will include assessing and addressing vulnerabilities and risks, local water management district updates for the region, adaptation planning for more resilient communities, and implementing adaptation using innovative approaches. Experts from a variety of organizations will be presenting, including City of Venice, Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Ecosphere Restoration Institute, University of Florida, Dewberry, Central Florida Regional Planning Council, South and Southwest Florida Water Management Districts, WSP, HighTide AI, and more!

The Summit is being held in tandem with the Florida Resilience Conference (September 23–25 at the Sunseeker Resort in Port Charlotte, FL), hosted by the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association and Resiliency Florida. This three-day event is located within walking distance of the Resiliency Summit and requires advance paid registration at https://floridaresilienceconference.org/registration. This incredible regional resiliency event is free and open to the public and will provide the latest information on how communities can and are building more resilient infrastructure to protect people, the environment, and our quality of life regionally in Central and Southwest Florida. We hope you are able to join us for the summit and the 2026 FRC!

Notice of Annual Member Business Meeting and Proposed Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation

The 2026 Annual Member Business Meeting will take place during the Florida Resilience Conference on Thursday, September 24, at 12:10 p.m., or immediately following the last speaker presentation in the Royal Tern A Ballroom at the Sunseeker Resort. Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation were formally noticed at the 2025 General Membership Business Meeting and will be presented for consideration at the 2026 meeting. The meeting agenda will also include consideration of the Slate of Officers for 2027 and the Slate of Directors for the 2027–2029 term. The agenda with proposed amendments is located on our website.

FSBPA designated voting members who are not attending may assign another individual as a proxy for purposes of voting at the annual business meeting. The proxy designation form and instructions are available by contacting us at mail@fsbpa.com.

2027 General Membership Dues

General Membership Dues invoices for the 2027 calendar year will be emailed in early September.

In recognition of the continued uncertainty facing Florida’s local governments, FSBPA will hold membership dues rates at their current levels for 2027. As you prepare to renew, please take a moment to confirm that your organization or firm is enrolled in the membership category that best reflects your current status.

Your membership is important to us. Each member strengthens FSBPA’s ability to advocate for and support Florida’s beaches and coastal communities, united by our common goal: healthy beaches are vital to the state’s economy, coastal environment, and quality of life.

Thank you for your continued support of FSBPA. We hope you will renew your membership in 2027.

Call for Abstracts for the 40th Beach Preservation Technology Conference is now OPEN!

The Call for Abstracts for the 40th Conference on Beach Preservation Technology is open now!

For more information, visit the call for abstracts page on our website!

🔹 Submission Deadline: October 12, 2026 

🔹 Location: Marriott Hutchinson Island Resort, Stuart, FL

🔹 Conference Dates: February 3–5, 2027 

PO Box 13146, Tallahassee FL 32317

Phone: (850) 906-9227 • mail@fsbpa.com