CELEBRATING COLLABORATION, LEARNING, AND GIVING BACK IN NEBRASKA WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

At the end of October, our Workers’ Compensation team had the privilege of participating in a full slate of events centered on professional growth, connection, and community impact. From educational sessions to charitable giving, it was a memorable few days highlighting the best of Nebraska’s workers’ compensation community.

We began the week by hosting a special “Nail Night” for attendees of the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Symposium — a relaxed evening of networking and conversation in a fun, informal setting. It was a great opportunity to unwind and connect with colleagues before the busy symposium days ahead.

We were proud to support the always-popular Kids’ Chance of Nebraska (KCNE) Oktoberfest fundraiser, held at the Bierhaus Maisschäler rooftop on Wednesday, October 22. KCNE is a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to children of Nebraska workers who have been seriously injured or killed in workplace accidents. The event drew strong support for a cause that means so much to our firm and the workers’ compensation community. Partner Tom Shires, who also serves as the current President of KCNE, was especially proud to see the continued generosity of those in attendance.

The week concluded with the Workers’ Compensation Association of Nebraska (WCAN) Symposium, featuring two days of engaging presentations and discussions. Our team also hosted a vendor booth, where we connected with attendees and shared resources throughout the event. Our nurse paralegal, Jodi Zmiewski, currently serves as President of WCAN, and we were proud to see her leadership reflected throughout the symposium. Highlights included:

• Tom Shires, President of Kids’ Chance of Nebraska, and attorney at Baylor Evnen, presenting a Case Law and Legislative Update alongside Josh Schauer of Perry Law Firm.
• Dallas Jones, who not only served as the MC for the symposium but also moderated the Judges’ Panel, kept attendees informed and engaged throughout the event.
• Erin Pemberton, who delivered a thought-provoking session on Ethical Implications for Professional License Disciplinary Actions, offered valuable insights for legal and claims professionals alike.

One of the most inspiring moments of the week came when WCAN presented a $30,000 donation to Kids’ Chance of Nebraska Scholarships at the symposium: a testament to the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting the educational futures of children affected by workplace tragedies.

We are proud to support both WCAN and Kids’ Chance of Nebraska as they continue to strengthen our industry and uplift our community. A heartfelt thank-you to all who participated, presented, and helped make this week a success; your passion and collaboration truly make a difference.