Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani Partner Elizabeth Lorell has assumed the role of President of the Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel (FDCC) Foundation for 2025–2026. She officially assumed the position at the 2025 FDCC Annual Meeting on August 1, 2025, in Park City, Utah, after serving as President-Elect during the 2024–2025 term.
“I am honored to assume the role of President of an organization that plays a pivotal part in shaping the future of the legal profession,” shared Lorell. “The Foundation’s enduring commitment to leadership, education, and professional development not only empowers our members but also enhances the strength and integrity of the broader defense community.”
The FDCC Foundation supports more than 1,400 FDCC members by funding projects and programs that enhance legal education, promote civil justice, and improve the quality of legal services within the defense bar. Through its seed money and charitable initiatives, the Foundation enables the development of key educational programs, scholarships, and leadership opportunities that benefit both members and the wider legal community.
Lorell has demonstrated long-standing and dedicated leadership within the FDCC, serving in numerous key roles since becoming a member in 2005. Her leadership within the organization has spanned several distinguished positions, including President from 2019–2020 and Chairman of the Board from 2020–2021. She has served continuously on the Foundation Board since 2021 and held multiple terms on the Executive Committee. Additionally, she has contributed extensively through committee leadership roles, including within the Finance & Budget and Nominating Committees; has served as an FDCC Convention and Program Chair at several meetings; and has led the Employment Practices and Workplace Liability Section, for which she was awarded “Section Chair of the Year” and the prestigious John Alan Appleman Award, all of which reflect a broad and impactful commitment to the organization’s mission and growth.
Mercedes Colwin, a member of the FDCC and the founding partner of GRSM’s New York office, commented, “Having worked with Elizabeth on many FDCC presentations and as a law partner, I am so proud of Elizabeth and her continued commitment to the Federation. She was a stellar FDCC President, and I have no doubt that her leadership as President of the Foundation in the ensuing year will be just as monumental due to her outstanding leadership skills.”
Lorell’s practice focuses on employment litigation, insurance coverage, professional liability, and other complex litigation. She defends employers, professionals in serious malpractice claims, and insurance carriers on coverage-related issues. She has a strong working knowledge of each area of expertise and a reputation for successfully defending her clients with zeal and sensitivity.
Learn more about the FDCC Foundation’s Board of Directors.