2017 Partnership Award Presented to Frank Alvarez at Compliance Conference
Congratulations to 2017 DMEC Partnership Award winner Frank Alvarez, JD, Principal at Jackson Lewis and Founder/Chairperson of the firm’s Disability, Leave, and Health Management Practice Group.
Alvarez has been integral to the success of the DMEC FMLA/ADA Employer Compliance Conference over the years, serving as a speaker and panelist at each conference since 2012. Alvarez was an early proponent of focusing DMEC’s spring conference on compliance, and his expertise in Family and Medical Leave Act and Americans with Disabilities Act compliance have earned him a reputation as a “can’t miss” speaker.
So it was only fitting that Alvarez was honored at the DMEC Compliance Conference in Minneapolis this year, rather than the customary announcement at the DMEC Annual Conference.
“Frank first got engaged with DMEC through the Greater Boston chapter in the early 2000s, and since that time, has been a frequent speaker at both local and national DMEC events,” said DMEC CEO Terri Rhodes. “He is always willing to step in, even at the last minute, which is what a good partner does.”
Said Alvarez, “To be recognized in this way as offering value to this wonderful group of people and companies makes me feel humbled, proud, and personally very happy.”
Compliance Conference Sets New Records
The record-breaking number of attendees at the 2017 DMEC FMLA/ADA Employer Compliance Conference in Minneapolis — 479 in attendance was an 18% increase over last year, with 155 employers represented —only tells part of the story.
It was the quality of the speakers and professionals attending that highlighted the importance and value of the conference. Leading corporations such as Amazon, Boeing, Comcast, Xcel Energy, and Yale University sent staff to present, learn, and network.
According to feedback from conference attendees, they found what they came for. 100% of attendees who completed the evaluations, agreed or strongly agreed that they will “utilize ideas, information, or resources from this conference” at their organizations, and the conference met or exceeded expectations for 96% of those who completed evaluations.
“The speakers were tops!” said one attendee. Some speakers were also singled out for praise, including Rachel Shaw for her engaging presentation and excellent resources, and Frank Alvarez for his expert take on FMLA and ADA compliance issues.
“The variety of speakers helped to provide different opinions/perspectives, but also helped to reinforce common themes and best practices,” said another attendee.
Many attendees also praised the networking opportunities. “I found it very helpful to hear about how other employers manage their leave and disability during the networking times,” said one.
You can view photos and videos of the 2017 conference, and be sure to save the date for the 2018 DMEC FMLA/ADA Employer Compliance Conference, Apr. 30-May 3, 2018 in Orlando, Florida.