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 disabilities, and 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 5, 2026. Thank you for taking the time to nominate a worthy NAELA member.

Submit a Nomination

Powley Award Recipients

2026 - Neal A. Winston, CELA
2025 - John K. Ross IV, Esq.
2024 - Claire E. Lewis, Esp.
2023 - Tara Anne Pleat, CELA
2022 - Molly M. Wood, Esq.
2021 - Barbara S. Hughes, CAP, Fellow
2020 - Professor Rebecca Morgan, CAP, Fellow
2019 - Leonard Berg, CELA
2018 - Debra Rahmin Silberstein, Esq.
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.