February 19, 2026
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BLB&G Partner Anya Freedman and Counsel Cathy Smith were featured speakers at the National Association of Public Pension Attorneys (“NAPPA”) 2026 Winter Seminar on February 18. Anya served as moderator for a panel discussion titled, “What’s on Your Plate? Lawyers, Leadership, and Functional Fiduciaries,” exploring the concept of "functional fiduciaries" and the risks associated with serving as legal counsel. Cathy participated in the panel discussion, “Till Debt (and QDROs) Do Us Part: Navigating Spousal Transfers,” where she shared insights on administering and managing Qualified Domestic Relations Orders issued by courts.
Anya is based in BLB&G’s Los Angeles office and leads the firm’s Fiduciary and Governance Advisory Group, guiding institutional investor clients on fiduciary law and governance matters. Bringing insights gained from nearly a decade of experience as general counsel to public pension funds investing over $70 billion, Anya helps leaders develop best-in-class policies and make informed strategic decisions on securities and corporate governance litigation.
Cathy is a counsel and member of the firm’s case development and client advisory group, where she focuses on institutional investor and client outreach. Before joining the firm, Cathy served as General Counsel for the Government Employees’ Retirement System of the U.S. Virgin Islands, overseeing the legal operations of GERS. She represents the firm in professional organizations, as well as numerous state and local pension fund associations, and she is a member of NAPPA’s Benefits Committee.