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| July/August 2025 | BAEC Bulletin
BAEC Bulletin | July/August 2025 |
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DIRECTORS CONT’D
Patrick J. Long Assistant Dean for Professional Development, University at Buffalo School of Law A proud son of South Buffalo, Pat joined the Navy after college and served in the Persian Gulf War. After leaving the Navy as a Lieutenant, he returned to Buffalo to teach English and History at Nichols School, where he also coached Varsity Wrestling. He then attended law school at UB and joined Hodgson Russ LLP upon graduation. There, he practiced litigation, with a focus on product liability. He returned to the School of Law in 2009 to teach legal writing. He is now the Assistant Dean for Professional Development. He has also taught courses in Professional Identity, Legal History, and Shakespeare and Law.
Linda S. Grear Partner, Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Grear Harris Schuller LLP
Linda S. Grear is currently a partner at Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Grear Harris Schuller LLP (PB Elder Law) and has been an active member of the Western New York legal community since 1995. Over the course of her 30-year career, Linda has remained committed to fostering professional excellence in a supportive and collaborative manner. She prioritizes meeting the needs of both clients and colleagues, with a strong focus on resource accessibility and professional development.
She is a current Member and Former Section District Delegate of the New York State Bar Association, as well as a current Member and former longtime Chair of the Bar Association of Erie County’s Surrogate’s Court Committee. Linda feels strongly about giving back to the Bar by supporting initiatives that reflect its commitment to both the legal profession and the wider community. Linda looks forward to working collaboratively with fellow Bar members to uphold the mission of the Bar Association of Erie County. Her goal is to support the growth and well-being of attorneys while furthering the BAEC’s dedication to legal excellence, education, justice, and a culture of camaraderie, wellness, and belonging. Brianna Shareef In-House Senior Counsel, Lactalis, Inc.
In the community, Pat has served as president of the boards of Neighborhood Legal Services, Just Buffalo Literary Center, and Buffalo Seminary. He lives in Williamsville with his wife, Sandra Block, and their two children.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
What began at the ballet barre eventually led Brianna Shareef to the New York State Bar—two very different paths shaped by the same values: discipline, focus, and a deep commitment to growth. A Metro Detroit native, Brianna now serves as Senior Counsel of Contracts and Strategic Transactions at Lactalis, the world’s largest dairy company. In her role, she leads complex agreements and strategic initiatives.
Melissa Hancock Nickson Court Attorney Referee, ADR Program, New York State Supreme Court
Michelle M. Schwach Court Attorney to the Hon. Mary G. Carney, Erie County Family Court
Before entering the legal field, Brianna spent 15 years training as a classical ballerina, including time dancing with the renowned Joffrey Ballet. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and her J.D. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, where she lived for five years. In 2021, she moved to Buffalo with her fiancé, and the two are excited to tie the knot this November. Brianna is an active and committed contributor to both the legal profession and her local community. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, serves on the board of the Minority Bar Association of Western New York, and is Vice Chair of the BAEC’s Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee. She also serves on the junior board of Buffalo Prep, working to advance educational equity and uplift the next generation of changemakers. Outside of work, Brianna enjoys golfing. Having picked up the sport just two years ago, she now enjoys honing her swing with her fiancé during their free time.
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