The Powley Elder Law Award

This award is presented to a NAELA member who has demonstrated a commitment to promote, in the minds of the general public, a greater understanding of the rights and needs of older Americans and people with special needs and of how elder law attorneys advocate for those rights. The award is established in the memory of Wes and Helen Powley, grandparents of NAELA member Tim Takacs. Both Wes and Helen were active in civic affairs for all of their lives, and Wes practiced dentistry well into his 80s.

The award is funded by a grant from the Takacs Family Foundation. The recipient of the award can direct $1,000 from the Takacs family to charities providing services to people with disabilities.

Nominations for 2026 are open until March 5th. Thank you for taking the time to nominate a worthy NAELA member.

Submit Nomination

Award Recipients

2025  John Ross
2024  Claire Lewis
2023  Tara Pleat, CELA
2022  Molly Wood
2021  Barbara S. Hughes, CAP, Fellow
2020  Professor Rebecca Morgan, CAP, Fellow
2019  Leonard Berg, CELA
2018  Debra Rahmin Silberstein
2017  Patricia Sitchler, CELA
2016  Keith Huffman, Esq.
2015  H. Amos Goodall, CELA
2014  Marielle Hazen, CELA
2013  Reginald Turnbull, CELA
2012  Janet L. Lowder, CELA
2011  Patricia Harrison, Esq.
2010  Eric Carlson, Esq.
2009  Alfred "Chip" Chiplin, Esq.
2008  Martha Brown, CELA, CAP
2007  Stephen W. Dale, Esq.
2006  Lynn Campisi, CELA
2005  Patricia K. Dudek, Esq., CAP
2004  Doris Hawks, Esq. CAP
2003  Mary Alice Jackson, Esq.
2002  John J.Ford, Esq.
2001  Fay Blix, CELA, CAP
2000  Edward W. Long, Esq.