Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation Announces Board Leadership Updates

Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation (AVLF), Atlanta’s largest provider of pro bono legal services, is pleased to announce significant updates to its Board of Directors leadership structure.

The AVLF Board has transitioned from a president/vice president model to a chair/vice chair structure to align with governance best practices. Larry Bracken, partner at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP and previously serving as President of the Board will continue as the Board Chair. Larry’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing AVLF’s mission to provide crucial legal and social services to Atlanta residents in need.

Kristy Weathers, professional development partner at Eversheds Sutherland, has been named Vice Chair. Kristy brings extensive expertise and a deep commitment to supporting AVLF’s impactful programs, including eviction prevention, intimate partner abuse advocacy, and community lawyering initiatives.

AVLF is thrilled to welcome Jonathan Olinger and Petrina Hall McDaniel to its Board of Directors Executive Committee as at-large members.

Jonathan Olinger is Senior Vice President and Senior Associate General Counsel at Global Payments Inc., a leading Atlanta-based provider of electronic transaction processing services with a global reach spanning over 170 countries. At Global Payments, Jonathan leads a team of more than 25 attorneys and legal professionals, advising on complex technology, intellectual property, and vendor agreements that drive innovation and support global operations.

Jonathan’s career reflects his dedication to problem-solving and strategic leadership, qualities that align closely with AVLF’s mission of addressing Atlanta’s most pressing legal challenges. His commitment to pro bono service is exemplified by his active involvement with AVLF, where his insights into legal innovation and access to justice help the organization better serve low-income Atlantans.

Petrina Hall McDaniel is the Office Managing Partner of Squire Patton Boggs’ Atlanta office, co-leader of the firm’s Class Action & Multidistrict Litigation Practice, and Vice Chair of the firm’s global Women’s Affinity Network. A Chambers-ranked litigator, Petrina specializes in high-stakes commercial cases and class action defense, successfully representing major companies across industries in cases involving privacy, consumer protection, and regulatory compliance.

Petrina’s exceptional legal acumen and dedication to equity have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as a “Woman of Influence” by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America. Her service extends beyond her practice, as she passionately supports organizations like AVLF that advocate for equity and justice in Atlanta. Petrina’s leadership and expertise in navigating complex legal systems are critical assets in AVLF’s mission.

“We are excited to welcome Jonathan Olinger and Petrina Hall McDaniel to AVLF’s Board[LR1]  of Directors Executive Committee, as well as to announce the evolution of our Board leadership structure,” said Michael Lucas, Executive Director of AVLF. “Jonathan and Petrina bring not only exceptional legal expertise but also a deep commitment to advancing justice in Atlanta. With Larry Bracken’s steady leadership as Chair, Kristy Weathers’ passion as Vice Chair, and the outstanding contributions of our entire Board, AVLF is poised to make an even greater impact in 2025 as we work to provide access to justice to all in Atlanta.”

AVLF also extends its deepest gratitude to its directors who are transitioning off the Executive Committee this year: Emily Johnson (UPS) and Adria Perez (Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton). Their leadership, vision and tireless dedication have left an indelible mark on the organization. Additionally, AVLF thanks John Horn (King & Spalding) for his dedicated service as an at-large member of the Board of Directors.

“I am honored to continue serving as Board Chair of AVLF and to work alongside such dedicated leaders in advancing our mission,” said Larry Bracken, Board Chair of AVLF. “With a deeply committed Board, we are poised to make a meaningful impact in 2025. AVLF’s mission to ensure access to justice for all Atlantans has never been more critical, and I look forward to working with these passionate individuals to create safe, stable homes and families throughout our community.”

The 2025 members of AVLF’s Board of Directors Executive Committee include:

  • Larry Bracken, Chair
  • Kristy Weathers, Vice Chair
  • Virginia Adams, Treasurer
  • Jonathan Olinger, Executive Committee At-Large
  • Petrina Hall McDaniel, Executive Committee At-Large
  • Paul Murphy, Executive Committee At-Large
  • Chel Tanger, Executive Committee At-Large / Finance Committee Chair