Denise Davis

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.