PORTSMOUTH, NH (April 2, 2026) — Nationwide employment law firm Jackson Lewis P.C. is pleased to announce Debra “Deb” Weiss Ford has been named the 2026 recipient of the Ry Perry HR Hero Award. Presented at the Granite State Human Resources Conference, the award recognizes one New Hampshire-based professional annually who advances the human resources profession and demonstrates a strong commitment to community service.
“I am honored to receive this year’s award and to support the HR community through work that promotes healthy workplace practices,” said Deb. “As the profession continues to evolve, and I value the opportunity to collaborate with others who are committed to building stronger, more effective workplaces.”
Deb is the Portsmouth office managing principal and has more than four decades of experience in employment law. Her practice centers on providing workplace training and has delivered thousands of sessions tailored to individual organizations’ needs to promote healthy workplaces, avoid potential litigation and ensure compliance. Her litigation work includes representing employers before agencies, including the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, on matters involving discrimination, wrongful termination, wage and hour issues and Title IX compliance.
Outside her legal practice, Deb is deeply engaged in the broader community and HR field. She serves on numerous boards and professional organizations, including the Seacoast Human Resources Association, and has contributed extensively through pro bono service. She has also served as both a federal and state mediator, reflecting her commitment to effective dispute resolution and community impact.
The Ry Perry HR Hero Award, presented by the Granite State Human Resources Conference, honors an individual who exemplifies leadership in advancing the HR profession while dedicating meaningful time to volunteerism. The conference, supported by the HR State Council of New Hampshire, brings together HR professionals, industry leaders and business partners to promote professional development knowledge sharing and networking across the state.
Deb received her J.D. from Temple University Beasley School of Law and her B.A. from Drew University.
The Portsmouth office can be reached at (603) 559-2700.
About Jackson Lewis
Focused on labor and employment law since 1958, Jackson Lewis P.C.’s 1,100+ attorneys located in major cities nationwide consistently identify and respond to new ways workplace law intersects business. We help employers develop proactive strategies, strong policies and business-oriented solutions to cultivate high-functioning workforces that are engaged and stable and share our clients’ goals to emphasize belonging and respect for the contributions of every employee. For more information, visit jacksonlewis.com.
For more information, please contact:
Kendall Melidosian, Public Relations Manager
T: (267) 319‑7831 / E: Kendall.Melidosian@jacksonlewis.com
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