Understanding the Realities of Qualified Immunity
Mike Ranalli
Content Marketing Manager, Lexipol, and Retired Police Chief
In this episode, Mike Ranalli delves into the complexities of qualified immunity. Mike explains this legal doctrine, which protects government officials from civil liability when performing discretionary functions, provided their actions don’t violate clearly established rights. The discussion covers the pros and cons of qualified immunity, its impact on risk management and the importance of self-reflection within law enforcement agencies.
Ranalli also offers recommendations for risk managers to engage with agencies and promote continuous improvement in practices.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Mike Ranalli
Content Marketing Manager, Lexipol, and Retired Police Chief
Summary of Qualifications
Mike Ranalli was a police officer for 32 years and a police instructor and attorney for the past 33 years. He has continued to work with public safety in his current role with Lexipol.
Responsibilities
Mike's duties involve focusing on contemporary areas of risk in public safety and using the information to develop thought leadership training material. These materials include articles, webinars, and in-person training content. In his role with Lexipol, he has been working increasingly with risk pools and delivering training at staff conferences and/or the pools sponsored law enforcement training days.
Business Experience
-32 years in law enforcement with 10 of those years as a police chief.
-Attorney and police instructor for the last 33 years.
-Worked for Lexipol full-time for the past 9 years.
ERM Experience
Mike's focus as trainer has been on organizational risk management, which includes the concepts of ERM in all of his courses and this effort is complemented by his legal research.
Professional Affiliations
Member of the NYS Bar
Member of the Federal Bar - Northern District of NY
Education
Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice
Juris Doctor from Albany (NY) Law School
Force Science Institute Specialist (study of human performance factors)
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Managing and Reducing Medicare Compliance Risks
Jennifer Shymanski
VP, Implementation and Strategy, IMPAXX
In this episode, Jennifer Shymanski explains the complexities of MSP compliance, including the statute, conditional payments, Medicare set asides and new reporting requirements. The conversation covers the impact of these changes on insurers, self-insurers and Medicare beneficiaries, emphasizing the need for updated systems, staff training, and proactive compliance strategies.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Jennifer Shymanski
VP, Implementation and Strategy, IMPAXX
Summary of Qualifications
Jennifer’s focus is on assisting customers in designing and implementing their Medicare Secondary Payer Compliance programs. She also develops training content and creates educational programs at IMPAXX including their knowledge series of webinars.
Jennifer holds a law degree from Northern Illinois University College of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. She is an instructor for the Certified Medicare Secondary Payer (CMSP) and CMSP-Fellow designations as well as an adjunct instructor of Business Law.
Responsibilities
*Assist clients in designing and implementing their Medicare Secondary Payer compliance program
*Create and conduct training for all parties in the medical settlement process (claims, attorneys, brokers etc.)
*Case discussions with clients to review MSA concerns, mitigation options and MSP compliance obligations
*Assist clients in developing and executing settlement projects to resolve large numbers of claims
*Contributes to new product development
*Speak/attend national and local conferences
*Creates blogs, newsletters, marketing materials and webinars
Business Experience
Jennifer has worked in the Medicare Secondary Payer industry directly for 15 years. In the decade prior to coming to IMPAXX (formerly Protocols/NuQuest), Jennifer worked for a large national carrier.
Professional Affiliations
National Medicare Secondary Payer Network (MSPN)
State Bar of Wisconsin
American Bar Association
Education
BA - University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point
Juris Doctor - Northern Illinois University
Designations
Certified Medicare Secondary Payer - Fellow (CMSP-Fellow)
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Building the Intergovernmental ERM Workforce of Tomorrow
Grace Crickette
VP for Finance and Administration, CFO and Treasurer; VP for Finance and Administration, CFO and Treasurer
Bradley (Brad) Grams
Adjunct Lecturer | Regional Environmental Program Manage; Northwestern University | Southern New Hampshire University | U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
Kendrick Lewis
ERM Division Manager; Hennepin County, Minnesota
Victoria Meadows
Assistant Director, Enterprise Risk Management Program at University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) & General Associate at the University System of Maryland (USM); University of Maryland, Baltimore and University System of Maryland
In this episode, experts discuss inter-governmental enterprise risk management (ERM) across various sectors. Our panel includes Grace Crickette, Brad Grams, Kendrick Lewis and Victoria Meadows. Grace highlights common ERM practices and motivations, emphasizing leadership and policy. Brad elaborates on federal and state ERM, noting the importance of leadership and structured frameworks. Kendrick focuses on local government ERM, stressing stakeholder differences and risk management culture. Victoria shares insights from the university perspective, linking ERM to strategic goals. The episode underscores the importance of collaboration, leadership and education in enhancing ERM practices across different sectors.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Grace Crickette
VP for Finance and Administration, CFO and Treasurer; VP for Finance and Administration, CFO and Treasurer
Speaker Biography
Grace Crickette joined the University of Redlands in 2024 as their Vice President for Finance and Administration, CFO and Treasurer. She has served as Chief Financial, Chief Risk, and Chief Compliance Officer for corporate, not-for-profit and public institutions. She has served as Chief Financial, Chief Risk, and Chief Compliance Officer for corporate, not-for-profit, and public institutions and their respective business experience in each space.
ERM Experience
- Finance
- Higher Education
- Health Care
- Information Technology
- Audit and Compliance
Education
MLA (2023), Management, Harvard University
ARM (2015), The Institutes
BS (1987), Business Administration, University of Redlands
Bradley (Brad) Grams
Adjunct Lecturer | Regional Environmental Program Manage; Northwestern University | Southern New Hampshire University | U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
Speaker Biography
Bradley (Brad) Grams is focused on cross-governmental environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) policy development within the infrastructure space, with a career that crosses the U.S. Departments of Energy and Transportation, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Brad currently is a Regional Environmental Protection Manager in the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s Great Lakes Region, where they are the responsible official for climate, energy, environment, sustainability, and ESG and ERM solutions for airports and their partners.
ERM Experience
I have two decades of experience in ERM and Strategy for governmental organizations involved in climate, energy, environment, natural resource, and sustainability management. I also have approximately 10 years of experience in ERM and Strategy for non-profit/non-governmental organizations from a Board of Directors perspective.
Education
MPA (2017), Northwestern University
MPP (2017), Northwestern University
B.S. (2005), Chemistry, The University of Chicago
B.A. (2005), Environmental Studies, The University of Chicago
Kendrick Lewis
ERM Division Manager; Hennepin County, Minnesota
Speaker Biography
Social Worker, Social Work Supervisor, Human Services Program Manager. Lead ERM program including identification, assessment, prioritization, and response regarding organizational strategic risks; facilitate monthly risk committee and working group; ERM and risk training creation and presentation; continuity and resiliency co-lead.
ERM Experience
8 years, created ERM program at Hennepin County, Minnesota (34th most populace county in US)
Education
MSW, University of Iowa
BA, St. Olaf College
Victoria Meadows
Assistant Director, Enterprise Risk Management Program at University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) & General Associate at the University System of Maryland (USM); University of Maryland, Baltimore and University System of Maryland
Speaker Biography
Victoria Meadows serves as Assistant Director of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Program at University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). Previously, Victoria worked in the School of Medicine at UMB as Lab Manager and Research Specialist in the Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development in the Department of Pharmacology.
ERM Experience
- Program Development
- Data Analytics
- Project Management
- Strategy
Education
MS (Expected 2025), Law, University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
MS (2022), Management, University of Maryland - Global Campus
BA (2015), Biology, Notre Dame of Maryland University
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Dispute Resolution and Risk Management for Special Education Students
Claudette Rushing
Founder, Education Resolutions, LLC
In this episode, Claudette Rushing leads a discussion on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other federal laws protecting students with disabilities. Claudette explores how school districts can mitigate risks for special education students. They emphasize compliance with federal laws, effective communication and staff training to ensure a safe and inclusive environment. The episode highlights the importance of robust policies and procedures for both on-campus and off-campus activities.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Claudette Rushing
Founder, Education Resolutions, LLC
Speaker Biography
Claudette Rushing has worked in education law since 2010. Ms. Rushing worked as a Legal Specialist and Dispute Resolution Coordinator for the Oregon Department of Education and as an enforcement attorney for the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). She also served as an Attorney Advisor for the U.S. Department of the Interior- Office of the Solicitor, where she worked primarily with education law issues and Tribal Government Services. During law school she focused exclusively on education law and policy; she interned for Baltimore City Schools Office of General Counsel and the National School Boards Association/Council of School Attorneys. Ms. Rushing works with national clients that include state education agencies, parent groups, schools, and other clients.
Prior to her legal career, Ms. Rushing worked as a reading specialist, English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teacher, and as a general and special education teacher in Texas, France, and Maryland. She worked extensively with gifted and talented children with Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth (CTY).
She is dedicated to education law and dispute resolution and is the founder of Education Resolutions, LLC which provides exceptional and efficient educational dispute resolution services. You can learn more at: www.educationlawnorthwest.com
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New Long-Term Care Options for Public Sector Employees
Christopher Clark
Managing Principal/SE Public Sector Practice Leader; EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
In this episode, Chris Clark explains long-term care, its costs, and the evolution of long-term care insurance. He highlights the importance of these options for middle-income public sector employees. The episode emphasizes the need for public sector employers to consider long-term care insurance as part of comprehensive benefits programs to support their workforce effectively.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Christopher Clark
Managing Principal/SE Public Sector Practice Leader; EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
Speaker Biography
Summer of Qualifications30+ years industry experience.
-Leads EPIC's southeast Public Sector practice
-Have had benefits clients ranging from state health plans, school districts, large county governments to 100 employee cities.
-Holds CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist) designation
-Taught Masters classes in employee benefits at Georgia State University
Responsibilities
-Manage client relationships, employee benefits strategy and service delivery for several public sector and retiree trust clients
-Pursue new clients
-Mentor and manage staff
-Promote EPIC's capabilities and presence in the southeast and nationally through attendance and presentations at conferences and similar events
Business Experience
-Began career as an actuary with Milliman
-Worked for 10 years at Aon, during which transitioned from actuary to benefits broker/consultant
-Worked at EPIC for 18 years, focused on public sector and retiree trust clients
-Worked on numerous large Long Term Care projects, including for a state health plan, school system, large counties, and a large religious organization
Professional Affiliations
Have attended and/or presented at the following:
-Georgia PRIMA
-SALGBA (State and Local Government Benefits Association)
-NACO (National Association of Counties)
-GFOA (Government Finance Officers Association)
-GLGPA (GA Local Government Personnel Association)
among others
Education
Bachelors in Actuarial Science and Masters in Risk Management; Georgia State University
CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist) designation
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Back to the Basics: Workplace Violence and Active Shooter Prevention
Harry Earle
Assistant Director, Law Enforcement Services; J.A. Montgomery Consulting
In this episode, Harry Earle delves into workplace violence and active shooter prevention. He emphasizes the "three P's" of prevention: People, Plan and Protect, advocating for a focus on mental health, comprehensive safety plans and protective measures. He highlights the importance of technology, threat assessment teams and community wellness in creating a safer workplace environment. The episode concludes with resources and encouragement for ongoing education.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Harry Earle
Assistant Director, Law Enforcement Services; J.A. Montgomery Consulting
Speaker Biography
Summer of Qualifications
Earle previously served as a law enforcement officer for 32 years (1987-2019) in various positions, including nine years as the of Chief of Police of the Gloucester Township Police Department in New Jersey.
He also regularly presents on the topics of leadership, violence prevention, and risk management.
Responsibilities
Earle assist clients in recognizing risk, challenges, and designing and implementing risk control and safety programs to mitigate losses and improve the overall safety environment.
Business Experience
- Glocuester Township Police Department, 1987-2019
- National Criminal Justice Training Center, Associate Instructor, 2019-Present
- J.A. Montgomery Consulting, 2019-Present
Professional Affiliations
- International Association of Chiefs of Police
- Police Executive Research Forum
- American Society of Industrial Security
- New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police
- Camden County Chiefs of Police Association
Education
- B.A., Criminal Justice, Thomas Edison State University
- M.A., Human Resource Development, Seton Hall University
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How Risk Managers Effectively Manage Risk and Leverage Data
Adam Shier
Director of Risk, PublicRisk
In this episode, Adam Shier shares insights on overcoming challenges in risk management, emphasizing the importance of data collection and maintenance. The conversation covers strategies for effective risk management, building strong relationships with third-party administrators, brokers, and insurers, and fostering proactive communication within organizations. The episode highlights the critical role of collaboration and data utilization in enhancing risk management practices.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Adam Shier
Director of Risk, ClearRisk
Speaker Biography
Summary of Qualifications
- Presenter at Texas PRIMA Conference
- Speaker at Colorado PRIMA Conference
- PRIMA Lets Talk Tuesday presenter
- Virtual educational session with Colorado, Maryland, Texas, Tennessee & IA/SD/ND PRIMA chapters
Responsibilities
Form and nurture relationships with risk professionals in the public sector industry.
Professional Affiliations
- RIMS
- PRIMA
- ORIMS
Education
- Unrestricted Brokers License
- Fanshawe College
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Critical Insights into Workers’ Compensation: Key Cases, Regulations and Legislative Shifts for 2025
Stuart Colburn
Attorney/Shareholder, Downs & Stanford, PC
In this episode, we speak with Stuart Colburn, who shares insights on the future of workers' compensation. The discussion covers anticipated changes for 2025, including the impact of weight loss drugs on claims, the evolving landscape of claims management services for public employers and the approach to mental health in the workplace.
Stuart also addresses the complexities of presumptions for first responders, highlighting the balance needed between supporting workers and maintaining system sustainability.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Stuart Colburn
Attorney/Shareholder, Downs & Stanford, PC
Speaker Biography
Mr. Colburn is a shareholder of Downs & Stanford and opened the Austin, Texas, office. He is board certified in workers’ compensation law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Stuart is a certified lobbyist, serves as the firm’s representative at Division of Workers’ Compensation meetings, and attends legislative meetings and hearings. He has extensive experience in all phases of dispute resolution before the Division of Worker’s Compensation and in district court.
Stuart was the founder and first Chair of the State Bar of Texas Workers’ Compensation Section. He co-authors the Texas Workers’ Compensation Handbook published by LexisNexis and serves on the executive committee of the LexisNexis Advisory Board for Larson’s on Workers’ Compensation. Stuart served as a contributing editor for the Texas Insurance Code Annotated and was a contributor for The Complete Guide to Medicare Secondary Payer Compliance. He is a trustee and a Co-chair of the school of Legal for WorkCompCollege.com. He founded and was first Chair of the executive committee for the workers’ compensation subgroup for the Primerus Defense Institute. Stuart is active in the education of attorneys, adjusters, and employers regarding workers’ compensation. He is certified by the Texas Department of Insurance as a continuing education provider. A sought-after speaker, Stuart has delivered over a thousand speeches regarding workers’ compensation nationwide. He has served as the course director for numerous programs including the Texas State Bar’s Advanced Workers’ Compensation Seminar and Texas Workers’ Compensation Forum.
The State Bar of Texas Workers’ Compensation Section awarded him “The Barb-wire Award” for lifetime service in workers’ compensation. The Texas Bar CLE Staff awarded Stuart the “Standing Ovation Award” recognizing his efforts, commitment, and leadership. He also received the Comp Laude Award by Workcompcentral.com for his contributions as a defense attorney. Stuart is the Chair of the State Bar of Texas Minimum Continuing Legal Education Committee.
Insurance Council of Texas recognized Stuart in 2024 for his contributions to the Workers’ Compensation committee and events.
Stuart passionately strives to remove barriers and increase opportunities to improve the workers' compensation system through advocacy and education, while taking a stand for doing the right thing and opposing those with contrary agendas.
Professional Affiliations
• Travis County Bar Association
• Founding Fellow, Travis County Bar Foundation
• Texas Department of Insurance CE Provider
• Registered Lobbyist
• Board of Trustees member for WorkComp College
• Member of the Mentoring Program Advisory Council
Education
• University of Texas, J.D., 1994
• Southwestern University, B.A., 1991 (Cum Laude)
• Institute of Comparative Political and Economic Systems at Georgetown University, 1989
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Building Resilient Employee Performance Appraisals
Todd Holt
Deputy Executive Director, Texas State Office of Risk Management
In this episode, Todd Holt speaks about the connection between performance appraisals and risk management. He shares his expertise, emphasizing the importance of objective appraisals in reducing risks related to employment litigation, such as wrongful termination and discrimination claims.
Todd also highlights the need for clear job descriptions, honest performance reviews, and continuous feedback to ensure ongoing improvement and mitigate potential legal issues.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Todd Holt
Deputy Executive Director, Texas State Office of Risk Management
Speaker Biography
Todd Holt currently serves as the Deputy Executive Director for the Texas State Office of Risk Management (SORM). He holds a master’s degree from Texas Tech University and several professional designations. Mr. Holt has served in multiple executive level positions with various organizations responsible for risk and claims operations.
Responsibilities
Todd serves as the Deputy Executive Director for SORM. His focus is overseeing a staff of 120 employees who serve Texas state agencies. SORM is responsible for workers' compensation claims, enterprise risk, placement of insurance (auto, property, fine arts, and errors & omissions), enterprise risk and continuity of operations.
Business Expertise
Todd 37 years in the insurance industry, he has extensive experience in workers’ compensation, auto, property and professionally liability claims. He has worked for private and public sectors, including 20 years at a public risk pool. He has held the current position with the state of Texas for 10 years.
Professional Affiliations
Todd is active in the following risk associations: State Risk Management Association, University Risk Management and Insurance Association and Association of Government Risk Pools
Education
Todd holds a bachelor and master degrees from Texas Tech University.
He holds the following professional designations: Associate in Claims (AIC), Associate in Claims Management (AIC-M), Profressioanl Continuity Planner (PCP), Certified Claims Professional in Casualty Claims (CCP) and Worker Recovery Professional (WRP).
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Reducing Injuries in Special Education (RISE)
Angela Nagle
School Risk Management Specialist, Public Employer Risk Management Association
In this episode, our guest Angela Nagle discusses the RISE program (Reducing Injuries in Special Education). Angela explains how the program addresses the increasing injuries among educators working with special needs students by providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and professional development. Challenges in implementation, such as ensuring consistent PPE use and gaining union trust, are also covered. The episode highlights the program's customization to individual needs and the importance of ongoing training to create safer educational environments.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs/podcasts are those of each respective author/speaker. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
Angela Nagle
School Risk Management Specialist, Public Employer Risk Management Association
Speaker Biography
Angela Nagle joined PERMA three years ago after retiring from public education in New York State. Angela is a former Superintendent of Schools, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, and teacher.
Responsibilities
Angela provides risk management services to school districts and Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) throughout New York State. With approximately 66% of all staff injuries caused by interactions with special education students, Angela applies her expertise and risk interventions to lower this risk substantially through professional development-school safety trainings, use of personal protective equipment, and sensory integration throughout the school day.
Angela observes classrooms with reported staff injuries and through a process called (RISE) Reducing Injuries in Special Education, lowers staff injuries.
Professional Affiliations
- New York State School Boards Association
- New York State Council of School Superintendents
- AMCOMP
Education
- State University of New York at Albany, Doctorate of Philosophy, Educational Administration and Policy Studies
- College of St. Rose, Masters of Science, Special Education
- Siena College, Bachelor's of Science - Marketing/Management/Business Administration
- WCP Designation - AMCOMP