TUCSON, AZ, [October 22, 2024] –  The Special Needs Alliance (SNA), a premier network of attorneys dedicated to disability and public benefits law, has announced its new leadership team for the 2024-2025 term. As the landscape of disability rights and services continues to evolve, this group of leaders is poised to drive forward the SNA’s commitment to excellence in advocacy and support for individuals with disabilities and their families nationwide.

New President Takes the Helm

Tara Anne Pleat, CELA, of Wilcenski & Pleat PLLC in Clifton Park, NY, has been elected as the new president of the SNA. Pleat brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to her role.

Leading the SNA is an honor — and a responsibility Pleat takes to heart. She stated, “Several years ago, my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder, and my family’s experiences have deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by clients. I recognize the limitations of Medicaid funding and the need to vigorously advocate for better services.”

In addition to her leadership role at SNA, Pleat is deeply involved in education and advocacy efforts. She serves as an adjunct professor at Albany Law School, teaching estate and financial planning for individuals with special needs and the elderly. Beginning in 2025, Pleat will expand her educational reach by joining the University of Miami’s Adjunct Faculty for its LLM in Estate Planning program.

Her commitment extends beyond the classroom through her service on various boards and committees. She is a board member for AIM Services, Inc. and serves on the Planned Giving Committee for the Wildwood Foundation, which funds a school for children with disabilities and provides services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities of all ages. 

Pleat’s diverse involvement across academic and nonprofit sectors exemplifies the SNA’s commitment to comprehensive advocacy and education in the field of disability law.

2024 – 2025 Leadership Team and Board of Directors

Joining Pleat in guiding the SNA are:

  • President-Elect: Robert F. Brogan, CELA, Brogan Law Group, P.C., Brick, NJ
  • Vice President: Bryn Poland, Esq., Mayo & Poland, PLLC, Baytown, TX
  • Secretary: Elizabeth Noble Friman, Esq., Fleming & Curti, PLC, Tucson, AZ
  • Treasurer: Christopher W. Smith, Esq., Chalgian & Tripp Law Offices PLLC, Southfield, MI
  • Past President: Amy C. O’Hara, CELA, Littman Krooks, LLP, Rye Brook, NY

Directors:

  • Leonard R. Anderson, Esq., Barlow Anderson, Anchorage, AK
  • Roxanne J. Chang, Esq., Roxanne J. Chang Advocate, Plymouth, MI
  • Emily A. Donaldson, CELA, Stevens & Brand, Topeka, KS
  • Emma R. Hemness, CELA, Hemness Faller Elder Law, Brandon, FL
  • Emily B. Kile, Esq., Mushkatel, Gobbato & Kile, PLLC, Scottsdale, AZ
  • Elena A. Lidrbauch, CELA, Hickman, Lowder, Lidrbauch & Welch Co., LPA, Sheffield Village, OH
  • Jacob H. Menashe, Esq., Hickman Menashe, P.S., Lynnwood, WA 
  • Rebecca C. Morgan, JD, LLM, Stetson University College of Law, Gulfport, FL
  • Ethan J. Ordog, Esq., Begley Law Group, Moorestown, NJ
  • Larry H. Rocamora, Esq., McPherson & Rocamora, PLLC, Durham, NC
  • Benjamin A. Rubin, Esq. LLM, Rubin Law, A Professional Corporation, Buffalo Grove, IL
  • Matthew T. Smith, Esq., Elder Law Lawyers McClelland & Associates, PLLC, Lexington, KY

Fresh Perspectives and Continued Excellence

The SNA board comprises a diverse group of legal professionals, each bringing unique expertise and perspectives to the organization. This year, the SNA is pleased to welcome two new members to its board: Jacob H. Menashe and Matthew T. Smith. Their addition further enhances the board’s breadth of experience and fresh insights.

The board’s collective knowledge spans various aspects of disability and public benefits law, ensuring that the SNA remains at the forefront of advocacy and legal support in this crucial field. Their combined efforts will drive the SNA’s mission forward, continuing to provide valuable resources and support to both member attorneys and the broader disability community.

About the Special Needs Alliance

The SNA comprises more than 150 attorneys across 45 states, each invited based on their demonstrated excellence in disability and public benefits law. Members average 18 years of experience in the field, with many holding the prestigious Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) designation.

For more information about the Special Needs Alliance and its services, visit www.specialneedsalliance.org.

Media Contact: 

Jihane Davidow, Executive Director

[email protected]