Spencer Fane LLP is pleased to welcome Samantha H. Catalano to the firm’s Santa Fe, New Mexico, office as an associate in the Environmental and Energy Law practice groups.
Sam provides broad legal guidance and assistance to businesses and associations navigating a wide variety of environmental and energy matters and associated civil litigation, specifically focusing on the regulatory aspects of environmental and natural resource management and oil and gas law. She regularly appears before state and federal regulatory bodies, including the Oil Conservation Division, the Oil Conservation Commission, and the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board, to present applications and permits and pursues litigation when necessary.
“We are excited to welcome a new attorney who will not only continue to build out our talented environmental and energy team, but who already demonstrates strong alignment with our cultural values,” said Jeff Wechsler, office managing partner for Spencer Fane in Santa Fe. “Sam’s legal footprint is not only limited to her work in the public and private sectors, but extends far beyond to industry associations, conferences, and charitable initiatives operating at regional, state, and national levels – exemplative of the engagement and collaboration we encourage across the firm.”
Sam studied neuroscience and Spanish at Allegheny College before obtaining her bachelor’s degree in cell biology with honors from New Mexico State University. In the years before entering law school, she performed laboratory research, managed surgical practices, and worked as a veterinary technician, gaining a unique analytical perspective she applies to her current practice. She earned her Juris Doctor summa cum laude from the University of New Mexico School of Law, where she served as the professional articles editor for the New Mexico Law Review, earned multiple CALI awards, served as a tutor for multiple professors, and engaged as a member and leader in several service-based legal initiatives.
Beyond private practice, Sam is highly active in the New Mexico Bar Association, serving across multiple sections, committees, boards, and as a Young Lawyers Division Liaison. She also serves on the board of directors for the New Mexico Women’s Bar Association; is a member of multiple state and federal industry associations and volunteer groups; is a recognized industry writer and speaker, presenting and publishing industry content at the state and national levels; and is notably fluent in Spanish.