Suzanne Summerlin currently serves as the Deputy Executive Director and Deputy General Counsel at the Federal Education Association (FEA) of the National Education Association (NEA), where her expertise is pivotal in navigating the complexities of labor relations in the education sector. In her role, she...
Suzanne Summerlin currently serves as the Deputy Executive Director and Deputy General Counsel at the Federal Education Association (FEA) of the National Education Association (NEA), where her expertise is pivotal in navigating the complexities of labor relations in the education sector. In her role, she is responsible for overseeing internal union governance and ensuring the enforcement of collective bargaining agreements through various legal avenues, including arbitration and litigation. Her strategic direction in legal and policy matters not only strengthens the FEA's position but also enhances its ability to advocate effectively for educators across the nation.
Summerlin's current projects involve managing intricate litigation processes and coordinating efforts among staff attorneys, ensuring that the FEA's legal strategies align with its broader mission of supporting education professionals. Her adeptness in legal writing and public speaking allows her to communicate effectively with stakeholders, while her background in journalism and community outreach enriches her approach to advocacy. As she prepares for her nomination by President Biden to serve as General Counsel to the Federal Labor Relations Authority, her extensive experience in labor law and union governance positions her as a formidable advocate for educators’ rights.
In addition to her legal acumen, Summerlin's skills in social media and public relations enable her to engage with a wider audience, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by educators. Her commitment to education and labor rights is evident in her proactive approach to addressing issues that impact teachers and education support professionals, making her a vital asset to the FEA and the broader educational landscape.