Registered forester and timber investment expert Marc Walley has been named the Earl H. and Sandra H. Weaver Professor at Auburn University’s College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. In this role, Walley will advance the college’s forestry teaching, research and scholarship.
Earl H. and Sandra H. Weaver established the professorship to recognize Auburn University’s commitment to academic excellence in forestry programs. The endowment aims to support forestry teaching in the private sector, emphasizing expertise in forestry business and finance.
Marc Walley, Earl H. and Sandra H. Weaver Professor at the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment
Walley’s duties will encompass teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, coordinating seminars and symposia on pertinent topics, conducting research and interacting with students and faculty on diverse forestry-related subjects.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in forestry from Auburn University, Walley joined Scott Paper Company in Mobile, Alabama, contributing to its timberland management and strategic operations. In 1994, he joined Forest Investment Associates (FIA), advancing the company’s expansion and eventually assuming the role of President and CEO. Under his guidance, FIA emerged as a global leader in forestland investment advising, managing over two million acres of timberland investments in the United States and abroad.
As Weaver Professor, Walley will teach “Forestry in the Private Sector,” a course designed to educate students on wood purchasing, timber harvesting, timberland management and essential business skills. Walley’s experience in the industry, including his tenure at Scott Paper Company and leadership at FIA positions him as an asset to this professorship.
“Being appointed as the Weaver Professor in the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment is truly an honor,” stated Walley. “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Auburn University in this capacity, actively supporting the college’s goal of becoming a leading natural resources institution on both the national and global level. I am especially grateful for the chance to help our students prepare for a rewarding future in both their personal and professional endeavors.”
Walley has also held several leadership roles in service to the forestry industry. He is a longtime member of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment’s Advisory Council and previously served as chair of its campaign leadership team. In 2017, Walley was nominated and received the college’s Outstanding Alumni Award.
“Marc Walley’s appointment as the Weaver Professor marks a significant milestone for our college. His wealth of experience and leadership in the forestry industry aligns seamlessly with our commitment to academic excellence,” said Janaki Alavalapati, the Emmett F. Thompson Dean of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. “We are confident that his expertise will elevate our programs, providing students with unparalleled insights into the dynamic world of forestry.”
The forestry program at Auburn University integrates cutting-edge theory and hands-on field practice, preparing the next generation of professionals with the knowledge and practical experience necessary for success in various career fields. Click here for more information on Auburn University’s forestry degree program.
(Written by Allison Killingsworth)
