Learn about Learnovation
Sue Ann Van Dermyden and Deborah Maddux had been practicing law for decades when they decided to take a risk. In 2010, they left the worlds they knew to create a Firm focused solely on neutral legal services. With a foundation in conducting impartial workplace investigations, the founders built a Firm dedicated to helping employers and employees, educators and students get back to what they are good at – business and academia.
In retrospect, it all sounds simple. However, at the time, a mid-sized Firm focused on neutral workplace and campus investigations was truly novel. Sue Ann and Deborah set out to build a lasting, reputable Firm that could provide value to clients. To lay a strong foundation that supported their vision for the Firm, they identified their core values.
As it turns out, Sue Ann and Deborah were good at identifying Firm values – too good. They had a difficult time winnowing down their (too long) list. A trusted advisor suggested eliminating either “Learning” or “Innovation” from their list. But, they viewed both values as indispensable. The solution: Learnovation. Learnovation embodies the history of the Firm and its future.
Learnovation is not two distinct values displayed together. It embodies one concept. It is our Firm’s promise to utilize the depth of our experience and creativity to constantly improve not just our own work, but our entire field. As industry leaders, we are at the forefront of advancements in workplace and campus investigations and adjudications.
The Firm has consistently embraced cutting edge techniques, such as infusing Trauma-Informed science into interviewing skills. At the outset of the pandemic, VMLC was one of the first Firms to train other investigators how to conduct effective remote investigations. We are trailblazers in a cutting-edge profession that is rapidly developing. There is no end to new concepts – and obstacles – that lay the groundwork for accomplishing our mission as the industry-defining leader in workplace and campus investigations and adjudications. We help employers and campuses make well-informed decisions so employees can get back to work and students can get back to class.
Today, the Learnovation spirit is more alive than ever at VMLC. While Deborah is no longer at the helm, current Senior Managing Partner Eli Makus and Sue Ann are committed to carrying the torch – the spark of Learnovation. With gratitude for our history and much excitement for the future, the Firm looks forward to solidifying our role as thought leaders in this important work.