Legal Aid Society of Rochester leader retiring

Attorney Carla M. Palumbo, president and CEO of The Legal Aid Society of Rochester, will retire at the end of 2026, after 42 years with the organization.

Starting her career as a staff attorney in 1984, Palumbo has held many positions at The Legal Aid Society, culminating in that of president and CEO for the past 12 years.

After a national search, the Board of Directors has selected attorney Lauren Pienkowski to serve as the next president and CEO, effective Jan. 1.

Pienkowski, who currently serves as the director of program strategies and retention, and director of the civil division at The Legal Aid Society, started her career with the organization in the Family Law Unit, where she represented domestic violence survivors.

She then moved into the Housing and Consumer Law Unit, where she provided legal representation in eviction matters, eventually specializing in foreclosure actions.

In 2021, Lauren was appointed to the newly created position of director of legal recruitment and professional development.

“In the 13 years that Lauren has been with LASROC, she has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and unfailing commitment to this community’s underserved population,” Carla Palumbo said.

“She has not only prioritized expanding access to justice for our clients but also in fostering a supportive and empowering workplace culture for our staff,” Palumbo said.

“I am deeply honored to step into this role and continue the important work of LASROC in our community. Together with our dedicated staff and community partners, we will build on LASROC’s strong foundation and continue to expand access to justice,” Pienkowski said.

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