Kriha Boucek Announces the Promotion of
Cassie Black and Elizabeth Kelly to Partner
Kriha Boucek is excited to announce the promotion of two talented attorneys, Cassie Black and Elizabeth Kelly, to Partner. This will be effective January 1, 2025. Both Cassie and Elizabeth bring unique perspectives, experience, and dedication to the firm’s mission of supporting educational institutions with practical, client-centered legal solutions.
Cassie has been with the firm since 2019. She earned her J.D., magna cum laude, from Loyola University Chicago, an Ed.S. from the University of Northern Colorado, an M.A. from Roosevelt University, and a B.A. from Augustana College.
Cassie brings 17 years of educational experience to her five-year tenure with Kriha Boucek, including roles as a school psychologist, assistant principal, director of student services, and assistant superintendent. Her unique background allows her to offer practical, student-centered solutions, specializing in areas like special education, student rights, and school governance. Cassie has also served as an adjunct professor at Loyola University’s School of Education and School of Law, furthering her commitment to the field.
Elizabeth has been with the firm since 2020. She earned her J.D., magna cum laude, from the University of Illinois, where she was the Managing Editor of the Illinois Law Review and her B.A., University of Illinois at Springfield, where she graduated summa cum laude.
Elizabeth brings to Kriha Boucek, along with her 7 years as an attorney, a unique perspective shaped by her upbringing as the daughter of an Illinois school superintendent and public educator. Elizabeth’s legal focus includes labor and personnel issues, board governance, finance, and student matters, offering clients pragmatic, real-world guidance. Licensed in Illinois and Missouri, her recent work includes personnel matters, union negotiations, student disciplinary matters, and advising on Open Meetings Act compliance.
Celebrating Growth and Expertise
Kriha Boucek congratulates Cassie Black and Elizabeth Kelly on their well-deserved promotions and looks forward to the exceptional contributions they will continue to make in education law. Their expertise, dedication, and client-centered approaches reinforce Kriha Boucek’s commitment to providing top-tier legal counsel to educational institutions.
