Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP is pleased to honor Marie C. Johns as the third recipient of the Catharine Biggs Arrowood Women's Achievement Award. Marie's career in business, civic, and government service sectors, as well as her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, make her an exceptional example for all women.

On Tuesday, March 28, Parker Poe recognized Women's History Month by presenting Marie with the award. The presentation aired virtually, and the award was presented by its namesake, Catharine Biggs Arrowood, who sat down with Marie for a conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion, the future of women of color in leadership roles, and how Marie got to where she is today.

“I’m compelled to say how deeply honored I am to receive an award with your name on it,” Marie said to Catharine.

In her sit down with Catharine, Marie shared her experience growing up in Indianapolis when it was still segregated, and her parents’ sacrifice to push her and her sisters to pursue higher education as first-generation college students. They discussed her career path, and goals for the future.

Marie has been a leader in the business, civic, and government service sectors for more than 40 years. When asked how she managed to prolong her business career, service, and civic engagements over four decades with no plans of stopping anytime soon, Marie said, “It’s important to live your full life the whole time, and not to wait to do that.”

She is the CEO of PPC-Leftwich, a minority/women-led firm with deep roots in Washington, DC. As CEO, Marie offers consulting services in strategic planning/communications, regulatory policy, and high performance coaching.

The Catharine Biggs Arrowood Women's Achievement Award was created in 2021 by Parker Poe's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. It was first awarded to Parker Poe's first female partner, Catharine Arrowood herself. This award will be given annually to a woman in the Parker Poe Community whose professional achievements are commendable and complimented by her actions and commitment to helping advance opportunities for others and generally set an exceptional example for diversity and inclusion of all people.