Our partner Amanda M. DeMatteis participated in the National Employment Lawyers Association’s Board Meeting November 5–7, 2026, held in Memphis, Tennessee. As a member of NELA’s Board, Amanda helps support the organization’s work at the forefront of efforts to advance equality and justice in the American workplace.
The meeting brought together board members from across the country to review NELA’s accomplishments over the past year and discuss priorities for the organization’s future. It was also the first board meeting for new Executive Director Karen Woodard.
Advancing Workers’ Rights
In an update following the meeting, NELA President Ben Lebsack highlighted the organization’s work in the courts, before federal agencies, and through legal education. This year, NELA reviewed 41 requests for amicus support and filed or joined briefs in 12 cases, often working with coalition partners.
NELA members also submitted more than a dozen regulatory comments addressing civil service protections and workers’ rights, and the organization testified before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission against eliminating EEO-1 workforce data reporting.
Education and professional development remained important priorities. NELA’s Annual Convention in New Orleans welcomed 467 attendees and its Trial Boot Camp in Washington, D.C., paired advocates with experienced trial lawyers from across the country, including partner Nina Pirrotti.
Amanda’s board service reflects her commitment to employee advocacy both in Connecticut and nationally. She was appointed to a three-year term in 2025 and previously served as President of the Connecticut Employment Lawyers Association from 2019 to 2024.
For more on Amanda’s work, see her attorney profile and our earlier announcement of her appointment to NELA’s Board.