Matt Morris '13
Who in your life has been instrumental to your success?
I’ve been so fortunate throughout my career to have exceptional mentors who generously took an interest in my development as a lawyer. I’m very appreciative to BSL’s Dean Dan Hamilton, and to Professors Anne Traum, Sylvia Lazos, Francine Lipman, and Judge Jay Bybee, who helped shape my perspectives on the law and exemplified the ways an attorney can make a difference in the community. Governor Brian Sandoval, for whom I had the privilege to serve on staff, was instrumental as a mentor, and an inspirational example of public service and leadership. I’ll always be grateful to him and his team of advisors (shout out to Dale Erquiaga, Pam Robinson, Mike Willden, Joe Reynolds, Michon Martin, Caleb Cage, and Mari Nakashima) from whom I have learned so much. I’m also deeply grateful to Nevada Supreme Court Justice Ron Parraguirre for everything I learned as his law clerk. Justice Parraguirre was incredibly instrumental and encouraging as a mentor. Serving in his Chambers also allowed me to work alongside brilliant colleagues (shout out to my co-clerks, Jane Susskind, Zach Noland, Beatriz Aguirre, Will Nobriga, Alex Velto, Elliot Anderson, and David Snyder). I’ve been blessed to work with and learn from some incredibly talented and dedicated lawyers and public servants.
Tell us about a program or accomplishment that you consider your greatest personal or professional success since beginning your career?
During the 2017 Legislative Session, I had the opportunity to develop legislation (S.B. 19) that expanded dual enrollment programs for at-risk students. The intent of the bill was to promote broader access to dual enrollment opportunities, which are proven to help students excel in high school and succeed in the workforce, as part of a statewide strategy to close the skills gap, diversify Nevada’s economy, and promote equity in education. It meant a lot to be a part of developing that legislation from its early stages, and to help advance the bill through the Legislature and ultimately to the Governor for signature. It’s also really encouraging to see the Legislature continue the conversation about expanding dual enrollment this Legislative Session.
What is your favorite thing about living in Nevada?
Nevada is wonderfully diverse, has such a fascinating history, and has been at the forefront of so many important movements. I’ve been fortunate since graduating from Boyd Law to work in Carson City, Reno, and Las Vegas, and to spend time experiencing so much of what Nevada has to offer. From Las Vegas to Lake Tahoe and everything in between, Nevada truly has something for everyone, and is a really cool place to live and work.
What drew you to Holland & Hart, and what do you like most about your work there?
Holland & Hart offers an unparalleled environment in which to learn, work, and develop as an attorney. I was immediately attracted to the firm’s culture, which includes a strong emphasis on diversity and mentorship with partners who are the best and the brightest in their respective fields (shout out to Greg Gilbert, Ed Garcia, and Laura Granier). I’m grateful that I get to learn something new from them every day. I particularly appreciate the emphasis Holland and Hart places on pro bono legal work. There has never been a greater need for attorneys to provide counsel to those who would otherwise have no recourse. It’s a privilege to be at a firm that recognizes this need, and strives to meet it in a meaningful way.
Where do you like to go for business lunches?
This is one thing I definitely took for granted before 2020 and the pandemic. At times, in-person business lunches used to feel a bit tedious, before they became an impossibility for what felt like forever. As things continue to move toward safe re-opening, I’m really looking forward to setting up in-person working lunches again. Triple George and Doña Maria’s are two of my favorite spots in Vegas, and Twisted Fork and The Union are two great spots in Reno and Carson City. I highly recommend them all.