Marshall G. Bennett

2025 Hall of Fame Inductee

Marshall G. Bennett has dedicated his career to public service, law, and financial stewardship—championing the rights of citizens, consumers, and workers.
As State Treasurer of Mississippi for 16 years, Bennett oversaw more than $10.5 billion in public funds, $3 billion in bonded indebtedness, and chaired the $17 billion Public Employees Retirement System. His tenure was marked by financial innovation, including the creation of Mississippi’s first 529 College Savings Plan, the Women’s Money Conference, the Bank-at-School Program, and the Unclaimed Property Scam Jam—initiatives now replicated nationwide.

A national leader, Bennett served as President of NAST, NASACT, the Southern State Treasurers Association, and the National College Savings Network. He testified before Congress on critical financial issues and played a pivotal role in shaping public policy for state and local governments. Bennett was also instrumental in NASACT’s efforts to assist emerging democracies in the Baltic and Eastern European states, helping them build sound financial practices following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

His career in law began as an Assistant District Attorney, followed by service as an Assistant Attorney General, where he led the Consumer Fraud Division and the Organized Crime and Public Integrity Unit, securing major victories in consumer protection and antitrust litigation. As Chairman of the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission, he eliminated a years-long backlog and initiated lasting reforms.

A military veteran, Bennett served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, following active duty with the U.S. Army Military Intelligence Command.

After 28 years in public service, he joined Wolf Popper LLP in New York City, where for 20 years he represented public pension funds in securities litigation and portfolio monitoring. Returning home to Mississippi, he was elected President of the Mississippi Historical Society and served as Chairman of the Political Science Advisory Board at the University of Mississippi. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is the proud father of three adult children and grandfather of seven.

Throughout his career, Marshall Bennett has exemplified leadership, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to improving government and protecting the public good.