Originally from Northern Minnesota, McKenna brings a strong academic background, valuable investigative experience, and a commitment to supporting clients and attorneys to her role as a Paralegal at Tom Anelli & Associates.
She earned her Associate of Arts degree from Minnesota North College in 2024 before graduating from Syracuse University in 2026 with a Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Law, Society & Policy and Psychology. She graduated summa cum laude from both institutions and earned Dean’s List recognition every semester. During her time at Syracuse University, she also received the Academic Excellence Award and a Summer Internship Funding Award.
Before joining Tom Anelli & Associates, she gained valuable experience in both legal and investigative settings. Most recently, she worked with the New York City Department of Investigation, where she conducted investigative research, analyzed case information, participated in fieldwork, and collaborated with investigators, attorneys, and analysts. In recognition of her contributions, she was presented with a Challenge Coin and Special Recognition Award for her work supporting the department’s mission to combat corruption, fraud, waste, and abuse.
She also gained experience at the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office, assisting attorneys with trial preparation, attending court proceedings, communicating with victims, and coordinating with law enforcement, court personnel, and community partners.
At Tom Anelli & Associates, she supports the firm’s attorneys through case preparation, client communication, document management, and legal research. Her attention to detail, strong work ethic, and collaborative approach help ensure cases move forward efficiently while clients receive the attention and support they deserve.
Passionate about the legal field and protecting individual rights, she has also published research examining the rights and treatment of incarcerated individuals within the U.S. prison system. She looks forward to continuing to develop her expertise in legal and investigative work.
Outside of the office, she enjoys reading, baking, traveling, and spending quality time with friends and family.