Nancy Conrad Partner

For more than 20 years, Nancy Conrad has represented businesses, educational institutions and non-profit organizations in all aspects of employment law.  She has defended all types of employment actions, including the defense of federal and state discrimination claims, wrongful discharge cases, employment contract matters and restrictive covenant cases.  Nancy develops and advances a litigation position and strategy based on a client’s designated resources and ultimate goal.  She utilizes effective, value-based litigation practices that are consistent with a client’s business operations and work environment.

In addition to litigating employment related disputes, Nancy is involved in all aspects of workplace issues.  Nancy builds close relationships with her clients and they rely upon her for advice in reviewing and revising workplace policies, managing employee performance, disciplining and terminating employees and training supervisors in best practices.  When consulting with employers on best practices, Nancy’s focus is on identifying and implementing solutions that make sense in the client’s workplace and effectuate results.  While it may not always be the answer that is sought, she provides the benefits and risks related to a decision in order for a client to make a fully informed decision.

Another significant portion of Nancy’s practice includes representing colleges, universities and schools in matters related to faculty, staff and students.  Nancy recognizes the unique challenges that exist on campus and has extensive experience in analyzing and problem-solving controversial matters.  She has litigated tenure related disputes, academic integrity and student conduct cases and staff terminations.  She also provides proactive advice and counsel to her clients, including Presidents, Deans, Vice Presidents and Heads of Schools to assist them in resolving education and employment issues and making significant decisions.  She is especially sensitive to addressing and resolving issues in a manner that is consistent with the institution's mission and operations.

Nancy is a frequent speaker on workplace issues and supports organizations and programs that provide training and mentoring to students and professionals. 

As evidenced by the awards she has received and programs she participates in, Nancy takes an active role in the legal and local community.  She is vice-chair of the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Federal Practice Committee, a member of the Executive Committee of the PBA Commission for Women in the Profession, a member of the PBA's Labor and Employment Council and the Continuing Legal Education Committee of the National Association of College and University Attorneys. 

Representative Matters

• On behalf of a college, obtained summary judgment in a tenure denial case based on national origin discrimination brought by a professor which was affirmed by the Third Circuit Court of Appeals
• On behalf of an international commercial company, obtained summary judgment in a race discrimination case which was affirmed by the Third Circuit Court of Appeals
• On behalf of a large health care network, obtained a trial verdict in a breach of contract claim brought by a physician

Recognition & Involvement

In 2005, 2006, 2010 and 2011, Nancy was selected in a survey of her peers as a Pennsylvania “Super Lawyer” by Law & Politics magazine.

In 2006, she received the "Athena Award" from the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, which honors women who strive toward the highest levels of professional accomplishment, excel in their chosen field, devote time and energy to their community in a meaningful way and open paths for others to follow.

Lehigh Valley Magazine honored Nancy in 2008 as a "Mover & Shaper" in recognition of her contributions to the Lehigh Valley community. 

In 2009, she received the "Take the Lead" Award from the Girl Scouts, which honors women whose professional and personal accomplishments exemplify the organization's mission of building girls who lead with courage, confidence and character to make the world a better place.

Nancy is a member of the Women’s Business Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, vice-president of the Board of Directors of the Lehigh Valley Women’s 5K Classic, a member of the Community Advisory Board of the CancerCare Community of Greater Lehigh Valley and a member of the Board of Directors of Green Hope Charities. In addition to her community involvement, she is also an advocate and fundraiser for breast cancer research and programs.