Marlena Mendez Higgins has been a member of COALA since 2013. She has served as COALA’s Secretary and Placement Committee Chair and is currently serving as the NALA/Bar Liaison. Marlena received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and her paralegal certificate from Phoenix College. She started her career in the legal field in 2006. Her experience includes complex litigation cases, oil and gas, insurance, employment, and general litigation. In her spare time, Marlena enjoys anything related to Halloween, scary movies, reading, and spending time with her husband, sons, and family dog.