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Amy Nelson
Legal Director
Amy Nelson is a dedicated legal professional with an extensive background in civil rights, particularly advocating for LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities. As the Director of Legal Services at Whitman-Walker Health (WWH), Amy oversees the nation's oldest medical-legal partnership, a pioneering program launched in 1986 in response to the AIDS crisis. Under her leadership, the legal services program has become a vital resource, providing free legal assistance to thousands of low-income individuals each year through a team of 11 attorneys and a network of pro bono volunteers. Her work involves key responsibilities such as community outreach, data management strategy, oversight of the budget, volunteer engagement, managing grants, staff development, policy advocacy, and fundraising efforts.
With a strong academic background, Amy earned her Juris Doctor (JD) from The George Washington University Law School, equipping her with the legal expertise necessary to lead her team effectively. Prior to this, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Texas A&M University, where she developed her analytical and economic reasoning skills, which are essential in her legal practice. Amy's educational path began at Plano Senior High School, where her interest in law and advocacy began to flourish.
In addition to her work at WWH, Amy has a demonstrated commitment to serving the community through various organizations. She has held several influential roles, including as a former LGBTQ and Immigrant Rights Representative on the Advisory Board on Street Harassment at the DC Office of Human Rights, where she contributed significantly to policy-making regarding harassment and discrimination. Amy's impact on the legal community is further emphasized by her past leadership as a Board of Governors member at the DC Bar and as the Vice Chair of the Lambda Alumni Association at The George Washington University Law School. These roles highlight her commitment to fostering inclusivity and advancing legal rights for marginalized groups.
Her impressive trajectory also includes participating as an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University Law Center, where she shared her valuable insights and knowledge with aspiring law students, nurturing the next generation of legal professionals. Furthermore, Amy's career includes significant positions as a Supervising Attorney at Whitman-Walker Health, an Associate at McDermott Will and Emery, and at Chadbourne & Parke LLP, where she honed her skills in various areas of law and built a solid reputation within the legal community.
Amy has also made impactful contributions to local organizations, such as serving as the President of the Board of Directors at Miriam's House, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering and providing housing solutions for women and children in need. Through her diverse roles and projects, she continues to empower and uplift individuals and communities, leveraging her skills and expertise in law to advocate for change and social justice.
Amy Nelson's background in law and advocacy makes her a leading voice for civil rights, particularly within the LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities. Her multifaceted role at Whitman-Walker Health illustrates her commitment to providing essential legal services to vulnerable populations, demonstrating how dedicated legal personnel can dramatically enhance access to justice. Through her various positions and engagements, Amy has showcased her unwavering dedication to both her profession and the communities she serves.
