Benjamin Ferrara honored as ‘giant’ of school law

On Board Online • April 25, 2011

Syracuse attorney Benjamin J. Ferrara received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of School Attorneys (COSA), a national group affiliated with the National School Boards Association (NSBA).

Ferrara and a Chicago attorney, Anthony G. Scariano, both were recognized for exemplary leadership in legal advocacy and distinguished service at the NSBA’s 2010 Annual Conference in San Francisco April 8.

“Both of our honorees are giants in the field of education law and have made significant contributions to the profession through their expertise and support for public education,” said Thomas E. Wheeler II, COSA chair.

Ferrara has been practicing law for 37 years and is a founder and the chairman of the Syracuse, N.Y. law firm of Ferrara, Fiorenza, Larrison, Barrett & Reitz, P.C. The firm represents 155 school districts, municipalities and other public entities in the state.

Ferrara is a past chair of COSA, having served on its board for 11 years. Formed in 1967, the 3,000-member group provides information and practical assistance to attorneys who represent public school districts and supports the legal advocacy efforts of the National School Boards Association.

Ferrara also has served as a board member of the New York State Association of School Attorneys. He served as its president in 1998 and in 2002 and was elected to a lifetime board member-at-large position.

“I have always valued public education, and I am proud to provide representation, guidance and practical options to aid school boards and their administrations in creating and maintaining the best environment and services possible for students,” Ferrara said.