THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COUNSEL AND THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA, COLUMBUS SCHOOL OF LAW are pleased to announce that UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA SCHOOL OF LAW WINS THE NINTH ANNUAL ELLEN A. (NELL) HENNESSY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS MOOT COURT COMPETITION

Named in memory of Nell Hennessy—a fearless advocate for the rights of employee benefit plan participants and retirees—this unique competition promotes and recognizes the finest oral and written advocacy on critical issues in employee benefits appellate litigation.

The ACEBCA® and The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law, were proud to sponsor and host the ninth an nual Ellen A. (Nell) Hennessy Moot Court, held on Friday and Saturday, March 7–8, 2026. Sixteen teams from the following law schools competed:

Palmieri & Eisenberg was a Platinum Sponsors for this Competition.

Frank with Jason will both Judges during the Competition

Frank and Jason serving as Judges

The American College of Employee Benefits Counsel, Inc. (ACEBCA®) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that recognizes attorneys who have made significant contributions to the practice of employee benefits law. Fellows, each with at least 20 years of experience, represent diverse perspectives across employers, unions, benefit plans, plan participants, and government agencies involved in regulating employee benefit programs. The College is dedicated to elevating the standards and advancing public understanding of employee benefits and executive compensation law through educational programs, professional discussions, and initiatives that support the continued development of the field.

Frank Palmieri, Jason Lacey, and Joy Mercer are all Fellows in ACEBC.

Frank is the President of the College from 2024 to 2026 and will be the Past-President from 2026 to 2027.

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