Female Powerhouse of the Year

Amy Rister has spent more than two decades shaping policy and people inside the Texas Capitol. As Committee Director for the House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs, Amy manages a wide range of issues affecting Texas communities, from housing and local government to state–federal relations, all while keeping the committee running smoothly through even the most challenging sessions.

“Amy is one of those rare leaders who makes everyone around her better,” one nominator shared. “Despite significant challenges, she kept her committee going. She builds bridges across chambers and makes sure others are seen, even in the busiest moments.” Another added, “She’s passionate, fearless, and constantly lifting others up, whether mentoring staff, building relationships with advocates, or creating spaces for women to connect.”

Previously, Amy directed the House Committee on Transportation, where she launched a monthly “Ladies in Transportation” lunch helping women across the Capitol community build connections in a traditionally male-dominated policy area. Her career includes serving as Chief of Staff to four House members from both parties, as well as leadership roles on committees overseeing defense, pensions, and veterans’ affairs.

A proud Texas A&M alumna and recent graduate of the Texas A&M School of Law, Amy somehow balances her Capitol responsibilities with family life, community service, and mentorship. She serves as Vice President of the Capitol Republican Women, a Project Chair in the Junior League of Austin, and a mentor through The Pink Granite Foundation.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Amy Rister represents the strength, grace, and dedication that define Texas’s most respected women in government affairs.

Few professionals embody the word “powerhouse” quite like Denise Davis. A former Chief of Staff to Speaker Joe Straus and longtime House Parliamentarian, Denise has spent more than two decades at the center of Texas policymaking. Today, as Founding Partner of Davis Kaufman PLLC, she’s recognized as one of the state’s most trusted advocates and strategic minds. The person who can guide complex legislation from idea to reality with both precision and grace.

“Denise is one of those people who is always a powerhouse,” one nominator shared. “Her work this year on housing issues helped ensure bipartisan support for a large number of bills moving across the legislative spectrum. The affordable housing package that passed the Legislature would not have happened without her work behind the scenes.” Another added, “She keeps people in the tent and brings new ones in.”

Before launching her firm in 2012, Denise held senior legal and policy roles across all three branches of Texas government, including as General Counsel to Lt. Governor Bill Ratliff, Director and Counsel to the Texas Judicial Council, and General Counsel to the Senate Jurisprudence Committee. Her expertise in legislative drafting, parliamentary procedure, and ethics has made her a valued advisor to policymakers and stakeholders alike.

Outside the Capitol, Denise serves on the Executive Committee of the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce, chairs the Mission Capital Board of Directors, and contributes to community causes through KLRU-PBS, Social Venture Partners, and her membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and The Links, Incorporated.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Denise Davis represents the skill, insight, and collaborative strength that define Texas’s most trusted and effective leaders in public affairs.

Jenn Saenz is known around the Texas Capitol for her deep policy knowledge, steady professionalism, and unmistakable energy. As a partner at Phenix Saenz LLC, she brings years of experience navigating the legislative process and budget negotiations with both skill and integrity. Her work spans a wide array of clients, from private businesses and trade associations to local governments, but what sets Jenn apart is the respect she commands among legislators and staff across chambers and parties.

“Jenn has a wealth of knowledge about legislative policy and is a trusted source of insight,” one nominator shared. “Not only does she excel professionally, but she’s an inspiration! Raising two adopted daughters and showing them firsthand that a mom can be both loving and supportive at home, and an asset in her professional life as well.”

Before launching her consulting practice, Jenn served as Deputy General Counsel for Speaker Dennis Bonnen, Deputy Chief of Staff and General Counsel for Senator Juan ‘Chuy’ Hinojosa, and as General Counsel to multiple members of the Texas House. Her experience on both sides of the rotunda gives her a rare, 360-degree perspective on state government and how to make things happen within it.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Jenn Saenz represents the professionalism, purpose, and heart that define Texas’s most respected advocates.

Leah Clark exemplifies the kind of leadership that bridges communication, strategy, and service. As Intergovernmental Relations Manager for the City of Georgetown, she has transformed how her city engages with state and federal policymakers. She bridges communication, strategy, and public service by translating complex policy into clear, actionable ideas that move people and shape outcomes.

“Leah exemplifies the standard of excellence in state advocacy and government affairs,” one nominator wrote. “With 14 years of Capitol experience, she knows how to build the bipartisan coalitions that achieve meaningful results.” Another added, “Her ability to synthesize complex policy issues and convey them in clear, compelling messages has benefited legislators, their staff, and the residents of Georgetown alike.”

Her work this session included launching the City Ambassador Program, which gives residents firsthand insight into state legislation affecting their community. She also led innovative social media outreach that turned intricate policy topics into relatable stories. Ensuring Georgetown’s priorities resonated both locally and at the Capitol. Her leadership helped secure key legislative exemptions protecting her community, the direct result of smart strategy and steady advocacy.

A Georgetown native with a master’s in public administration from the Bush School at Texas A&M University, Leah’s path from Senate staffer to city advocate shows how deep expertise and thoughtful leadership can create measurable change.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Leah Clark embodies the grit, strategy, and leadership that are redefining what effective advocacy looks like in Texas government affairs.

Lisa Kaufman is a force in Texas government affairs! Admired for her command of policy, her strategic instincts, and her ability to bring people together to solve the toughest problems. As Founding Partner of Davis Kaufman PLLC, she draws on more than two decades of experience navigating both the legislative and executive branches, earning the respect of lawmakers, staff, and stakeholders across the state.

“Lisa is a force to be reckoned with,” one nominator shared. “She’s an amazing person to work with and a role model.” Those who have worked alongside her echo that sentiment, describing a leader whose mix of intellect, grace, and grit sets the tone for how advocacy should be done.

Before founding the firm in 2012 with partner Denise Davis, Lisa served as Director of Budget & Policy and Special Counsel to Speaker Joe Straus, where she helped steer major policy negotiations and the state budget through two of the most challenging sessions in recent history. Her earlier career included more than a decade in the Texas Senate, where she served as General Counsel to Senator Robert Duncan and Committee Director for both the Senate Jurisprudence and State Affairs Committees.

A certified mediator and Fellow at the Center for Public Policy Dispute Resolution at the University of Texas School of Law, Lisa continues to lead with the same collaborative mindset that has defined her career. She also serves on the Executive Committee of Austin’s ZACH Theatre, the Anti-Defamation League Board of Directors, and is a founding board member of Dress for Success Austin.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Lisa Kaufman represents the intelligence, integrity, and influence that define Texas’s most exceptional women in government affairs.

Marsha Jones is a titan in Texas health care policy. A trusted advisor, strategist, and mentor whose influence has shaped how the state approaches health care for nearly four decades. As a Consultant at HillCo Partners, she is widely regarded as the go-to expert on hospital finance, health care access, pharmaceuticals, and Medicaid. Known for her command of complex policy and her unshakable integrity, Marsha is the person everyone wants in the room when the issues are complicated and the stakes are high.

“Marsha is a titan,” one nominator shared. “She’s the go-to health care policy expert across multiple disciplines because she always does her homework and backs every point with real substance. Her word can be trusted, and she sets the perfect example for every staffer she meets with. When I’m in a stakeholder meeting, I want Marsha on my side.” Another added, “She’s a beacon for women in our industry - a trailblazer and role model who’s paved the way for countless others.”

Marsha’s legislative and advocacy career spans more than thirty-nine years, covering appropriations, hospital finance, workforce development, tort reform, and pharmaceutical access. Her expertise and steady leadership have helped advance model legislation across multiple health care sectors and deliver meaningful reforms for Texans. She has served on the staff of both the Texas House and Senate and represented one of the nation’s largest trade associations, advocating for more than 450 hospitals and 500,000 health care employees.

Beyond her professional work, Marsha continues to serve the community through her roles with the University of Texas Moody College Advisory Council, United Ways of Texas, and Any Baby Can, among others. Her combination of depth, diplomacy, and discipline has made her a respected leader and mentor across generations of Texas policy professionals.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Marsha Jones exemplifies the intellect, steadiness, and integrity that define Texas’s most trusted voices in government and public affairs.

Marti Johnson Luparello has built a career defined by determination, depth, and a reputation for getting things done. As Founder and Principal of Ocotillo Public Affairs, she draws on more than two decades of experience in Texas politics. Combining policy expertise, strategic instincts, and steady professionalism that have made her one of the most trusted advocates in Austin.

“Marti’s work ethic is above and beyond for her clients,” one nominator shared. “She’s incredibly driven, smart, and professional. A great example of what an effective lobbyist is.” Another added, “Her West Texas roots give her a unique perspective on our state, and when paired with her deep experience, they make her one of the strongest lobbyists in #txlege. Just as importantly, she gives back by mentoring the next generation of women in politics.”

Marti’s career began with pivotal roles under former Senator and Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples and in the Senate office of Glenn Hegar, now Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System. She went on to serve as Director of Government Relations and Compliance for Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Companies and later as Chief Operating Officer of a leading public affairs firm before launching Ocotillo in 2022.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Marti Johnson Luparello represents the rare combination of strategy and generosity that continues to shape the future of advocacy in Texas.

Mary Tipps is a cornerstone of Texas government affairs; respected, trusted, and known for her direct, no-nonsense approach. As Executive Director of Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLR), she manages the organization’s statewide advocacy operations, serving as the primary point of contact for legislators, trade groups, and industry leaders. For more than two decades, her work has helped make TLR one of the most effective and influential policy organizations in Texas.

Colleagues describe Mary as the person everyone turns to when the stakes are high. “She’s extremely well known and completely trusted,” one peer shared. “The work she’s done over the years has earned her credibility with every stakeholder she encounters.”

Since joining TLR in 2003, Mary has led with clarity, discipline, and deep respect for the process. Overseeing countless legislative efforts and building coalitions that have strengthened Texas’s civil justice system. Her influence reaches far beyond the Capitol; she’s known for bringing people together, cutting through complexity, and ensuring that good policy gets across the finish line.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Mary Tipps represents the strength, steadiness, and trust that define Texas’s most influential women in state policy and advocacy.

Michelle Wittenburg has spent more than three decades shaping policy, advising leaders, and building bridges across Texas government. As Founder and President of Wittenburg & Associates, she leads a respected governmental affairs firm that advises businesses, associations, and nonprofits with a balance of strategic insight and genuine care. Those who work with her describe her simply: “She’s wonderful - always willing to listen.”

An attorney by training and a strategist by instinct, Michelle has worked in all three branches of state government and in both legislative chambers, including service as General Counsel to the first Republican Speaker of the House since Reconstruction. Her career reflects both legal acumen and political expertise, having consulted, managed, and fundraised for numerous successful campaigns across Texas.

Outside her firm, Michelle leads as President of the KK125 Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, where she has turned personal experience into purpose. Helping to pass both Texas’s and the federal “Right to Try” laws, as well as pioneering stem cell legislation expanding access to life-saving therapies.

A fifth-generation Texan raised on her family’s 150-year-old ranch, Michelle spends her time outside the Capitol with her horses, dogs, cats, and goats or championing Jack Jack’s Pack, her volunteer street animal rescue recognized by Governor Greg Abbott for its impact statewide.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Michelle Wittenburg represents the empathy, strength, and leadership that define Texas’s most trusted and inspiring women in government affairs.

Few advocates balance strategy, substance, and leadership as seamlessly as Molly Spratt. As Principal at HB Strategies, she has become a trusted force in Texas government affairs. Known for her depth of policy expertise, calm command of the process, and talent for building consensus on even the most complex issues. Her work reflects a blend of intellect and influence that defines true power at the Capitol.

“Molly leads the CS4TX coalition with exceptional execution and strategic leadership,” one nominator shared. “She keeps our coalition focused and effective, leverages her strong relationships in the Capitol, and ensures our work is impactful and well-organized.” Another added, “She’s wise and experienced beyond her years. Passing bills and riders, generating clients, mentoring young women, and volunteering with nonprofits that need help in the Capitol.”

Before co-founding HB Strategies, Molly built a decade of experience inside the Texas Legislature, serving as Chief of Staff to Senator Joan Huffman and advising on complex policy, budget, and communications strategies. Her background gives her clients access to a deep understanding of both chambers and a rare ability to turn ideas into results.

Molly Spratt embodies what it means to be a Female Powerhouse of the Year; a strategist, mentor, and leader who combines intellect, purpose, and heart to make Texas policy stronger and more inclusive.

For more than three decades, Nora Cox has been one of the driving forces behind Texas’s digital health transformation. As founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Texas e-Health Alliance (TeHA), she created a platform that ensures technology and innovation have a strong, credible voice in health policy. Through her leadership, TeHA has become the state’s leading advocate for using technology to improve care. Advancing key reforms in telehealth, data privacy, and public health modernization.

Peers describe her as simply: “AWESOME”. It’s a fitting summary for a leader whose expertise, humor, and calm command have earned respect across agencies, industries, and political lines. Nora is known for turning complex technical challenges into clear policy conversations. The kind that actually moves policy. Her steady advocacy has helped shape laws that make health care more connected, accessible, and efficient for Texans.

Peers say she is setting a new standard for credible, informed advocacy in an increasingly technical field. With decades of experience in both government and the private sector, Nora brings insight, balance, and a deep sense of purpose to every policy table she joins.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Nora Cox embodies the intelligence, integrity, and influence that define Texas’s most trusted leaders in government affairs.

Rebecca Young Montgomery has built a career defined by vision, integrity, and impact. As Founder and CEO of Montgomery Strategies, she leads with a belief that good policy should strengthen communities, expand opportunity, and empower people. With over two decades of experience in government relations, coalition building, and strategic communications, Rebecca has become one of Texas’s most trusted advocates for business, education, and workforce development.

“Rebecca has been at the forefront of advocating for policies that strengthen communities and empower businesses,” one nominator shared. “She navigates complex legislative landscapes while building trust across political, business, and nonprofit sectors and she does it all with authenticity and grace.” Another noted her mentorship and advocacy for women in public policy: “She amplifies underrepresented voices and encourages women to step into rooms where decisions are made.”

Before founding her firm, Rebecca began her professional life as a pediatric nurse, where seeing families struggle to access care inspired her to pursue advocacy at the Texas Capitol. That experience shaped a lifelong commitment to public service and policy reform. Her work has since contributed to landmark initiatives that drive economic growth, expand education access, and improve the lives of Texas families including helping secure bipartisan support for legislation to make financial literacy a graduation requirement in public schools.

As one of this year’s Female Powerhouse of the Year honorees, Rebecca Young Montgomery represents the strength, strategy, and purpose that define Texas’s most inspiring leaders in government affairs.