We are pleased to announce that Brian Rochel was awarded the 2026 Karla Wahl Dedicated Advocacy Award on May 17, 2026. The Award is a rare honor recognizing attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing employee rights in Minnesota.

Established in 2000, the Karla Wahl Dedicated Advocacy Award honors the memory of Karla Wahl, a devoted civil rights advocate who worked tirelessly to protect and advance the rights of employees throughout Minnesota. The Karla Wahl Dedicated Advocacy Award recognizes attorneys who take on difficult battles, mentor other lawyers, educate the public about employee rights, and help expand legal protections for workers.

Brian’s selection reflected his longstanding commitment to employee advocacy and his leadership within Minnesota’s employment law community. The award is especially meaningful because it recognizes not only litigation success, but also the broader dedication to protecting workers, supporting fellow advocates, and strengthening employee rights across the state. Brian is humbled and honored to receive the Award, and is incredibly grateful for the help and support his partners, mentors, colleagues, and peers have given him throughout his career.

Minnesota NELA formally recognized Brian at its Spring Dinner on May 17, 2026.