Blank Rome partner Michael J. Barry, of counsel John R. Wirthlin, and associate Paula M. Vigo Marqués will serve as panelists at the Online Lenders Alliance’s 2026 Compliance University, being held July 22 through 23, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

About the Program

Regular review of operational procedures as they relate to laws and regulations is essential to a compliance management program. This event will review new developments in the compliance world, providing best practices on how to manage and grow a successful compliance program.

About Their Sessions

DIDMCA Opt-Outs—Is Your Lending Program Ready?
Wednesday, July 22  |  9:15–10:15 a.m.

State lawmakers are increasingly challenging federal interest rate exportation authorities, raising critical questions for banks and FiinTechs operating across state lines. This session breaks down the latest Depository Institutions Deregulation and Monetary Control Act (“DIDMCA”) opt-out developments, key enforcement and litigation trends, and the compliance considerations institutions can’t afford to ignore.

Panelists:

  • Leah C. Dempsey, Shareholder, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP
  • Bryan Schneider, Partner, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP
  • John R. Wirthlin, Of Counsel, Blank Rome LLP

Managing Third-Party Vendor Risk Management
Wednesday, July 22  |  1:30–2:30 p.m.

Third-party vendors are critical to any company’s operations, but they bring a host of cyber, operational, compliance, and reputational risk challenges. As regulatory expectations rise, firms must take a more strategic and continuous approach to third-party risk management. Hear about best practices for managing vendor risk across the full lifecycle, including onboarding, risk assessment, continuous monitoring, and offboarding. The panel will share practical strategies for strengthening oversight, resilience, and governance across the third-party ecosystem, including enhancing vendor oversight, strengthening operational resilience, and building more effective, risk-based third-party risk management programs.

Panelists:

  • Michael J. Barry, Partner, Blank Rome
  • Christopher J. Capurso, Counsel, Troutman Pepper Locke
  • Eric M. Knight, Associate, Manatt Phelps & Phillips LLP

Navigating Licensing and Regulatory Uncertainty
Wednesday, July 22  |  2:45–3:45 p.m.

As FinTech innovation accelerates, so does regulatory complexity. From licensing requirements and state-by-state oversight to shifting expectations around consumer protection, FinTech companies must navigate an increasingly fraught regulatory landscape. This session will explore how to manage these changes and build scalable compliance frameworks that support growth and innovation. The panel will discuss key areas of regulatory uncertainty, emerging enforcement trends, and practical strategies for strengthening governance, risk management, and regulatory engagement. Participants will gain actionable guidance for navigating regulatory shifts, reducing compliance risk, and positioning organizations for sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving market.

Panelists:

  • Francis L. Doorley, Partner, Mayer Brown
  • Paula M. Vigo Marqués, Associate, Blank Rome LLP

For more information and to register, please visit the event webpage.