YWCA Recognizes Wiley Rein’s Dorthula Powell-Woodson with a Women of Achievement Award for Leadership, Mentoring, and Community Service  

October 7, 2015

The YWCA National Capital Chapter honored Wiley Rein LLP partner and Health Care Practice co-chair Dorthula H. Powell-Woodson yesterday with a prestigious 2015 Women of Achievement Award. The recognition—given to Ms. Powell-Woodson at the organization’s annual awards breakfast—honors five civic-minded women in the Washington, DC area each year for their outstanding leadership, community engagement, and commitment to mentoring other women. Also recognized was Government Contracts and Health Care partner Rachel A. Alexander, who received a Women of Excellence Award for her strong record of innovation and for serving as an inspiration to colleagues.

“Dot is an exemplary and personable leader whose accomplishments and community service make her an outstanding role model for women,” said Wiley Rein Managing Partner Peter D. Shields. “We’re delighted that the YWCA is recognizing Dot and Rachel among today’s other honorees; their contributions and professional mentoring have made a real difference to other women in their careers.”

Ms. Powell-Woodson counsels clients on health care and government procurements and contracting, contract administration, and state and federal regulatory compliance relating to complex prime, subcontract, and affiliate agreements. She served as the Governor’s appointed Director of Virginia’s health care agency, as a Virginia Assistant Attorney General, and as Vice President for Legal Services for two national health care entities. Ms. Powell-Woodson is a leader in the management of Wiley Rein and serves as the partner in charge of lateral hiring.

Ms. Alexander counsels clients on health care and government contracting matters, focusing on state and federal regulatory compliance, contract administration, procurement matters, and litigation. She regularly advises families and children in the Washington, DC family courts and social services system on a pro bono basis. Ms. Alexander serves as co-chair of Wiley Rein’s Recruiting Committee and founded the Women in Government Contracting Initiative, which provides networking opportunities for women in the field. She was recently named to a leadership position with the Women in Law Empowerment Forum (WILEF).

The YWCA describes the Women of Achievement award event as one that “recognizes a group of transformative leaders who embody empowerment and extraordinary accomplishments through career success, community service, leadership, mentoring, and dedication to the YWCA mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.”