The Maryland Association for Justice (MAJ) has officially launched its inaugural cohort of the MAJ Leadership Academy, marking the start of an intensive leadership development experience for emerging trial lawyer leaders in Maryland.

The MAJ Leadership Academy is a multi-month professional development program designed to cultivate thoughtful, effective leadership within the plaintiff bar. Through mentorship, facilitated discussion, and peer engagement, participants will develop the skills and perspective needed to lead with purpose within their firms, MAJ, and the broader civil justice system.

On Thursday, January 8, 2026, cohort members attended the first session, Authentic Leadership | Leading with Purpose and Integrity. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations, reflecting on value-driven leadership, empathetic decision-making, and building trust - essential qualities for leaders in the legal profession.

This year’s Leadership Academy cohort includes 13 MAJ members representing diverse regions, practice areas, and professional backgrounds. Each member brings a shared commitment to professional growth and service to the trial lawyer community.

2026 MAJ Leadership Academy Fellows:

• Samantha Dos Santos, Plaxen Adler Muncy PA
• Natalie D’Antonio, Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC
• Torra Hausmann, Hyatt & Weber, P.A.
• Justin Homassel, Hyatt & Goldbloom, LLC
• Jonathan Huddleston, Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC
• Will Manahan, Hyatt & Weber, P.A.
• Lindsey McCulley, Salsbury Stringer McCulley
• Taylor Nettleford, GDH Law Firm
• Cara O’Brien, O’Brien Law, P.A.
• John Reese, Trollinger Law
• Adam Shareef, Meyers, Rodbell & Rosenbaum
• Rebecca Smith, Warnken, LLC
• Joshua Wolberg, The Law Offices of Steven H. Heisler

Over the course of the program, they will participate in sessions addressing topics such as high-performing teams, effective governance, resilient leadership, and the evolving role of trial lawyers as advocates and community leaders.

The MAJ Leadership Academy is facilitated by Jes Averhart, founder of Jes & Co., a leadership development firm specializing in stakeholder engagement and talent development. MAJ’s program is modeled after similar initiatives facilitated by Averhart for other state justice associations and reflects best practices in leadership education.

The Leadership Academy will conclude with formal recognition at MAJ’s Annual Convention, where the cohort will be pinned in acknowledgment of their commitment to leadership development and service to the profession.