Jennifer Chavez Rubio, Maritza Lizama and Dr. Akilah Watkins Join the Foundation’s Board of Directors
WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 7, 2026) — Washington Area Women’s Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Jennifer Chavez Rubio, Maritza Lizama and Dr. Akilah Watkins to its Board of Directors. The three accomplished leaders bring extensive experience across philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, marketing, communications, public service and community development.
Their appointments further strengthen the Foundation’s leadership as The Foundation continues its work to invest in the power, leadership, and well-being of women and girls of color across the Washington, D.C. region.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jennifer, Maritza and Akilah to the Washington Area Women’s Foundation Board of Directors,” said Tamara Wilds Lawson, President and CEO of Washington Area Women’s Foundation. “Each brings an incredible depth of experience, perspective and commitment to strengthening communities. Their leadership will be invaluable as we continue expanding our impact and advancing a region where women and girls of color have the resources, power and opportunities to thrive.”
Jennifer Chavez Rubio
Jennifer Chavez Rubio is Interim Chief Executive Officer of Hispanics in Philanthropy and brings more than two decades of experience in philanthropy, public service and nonprofit leadership. Her career has included leadership roles with the Gates Foundation, United States Peace Corps, Silicon Valley Community Foundation, The San Francisco Foundation, Mile High United Way and several corporate philanthropy programs.
Learn more about Jennifer Chavez Rubio →
Maritza Lizama
Maritza Lizama is Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Captiva Branding and a bilingual marketing and brand strategist with more than 25 years of experience. Her expertise spans brand strategy, audience development, communications and business growth, including previous leadership with the Washington Business Journal and across the personal finance, health and wellness sectors.
Learn more about Maritza Lizama →
Dr. Akilah Watkins
Dr. Akilah Watkins is President and CEO of Independent Sector, where she advocates for and supports the nation’s nonprofit and philanthropic community. A nonprofit executive, community organizer and national thought leader with more than 25 years of experience, she has held leadership roles with the Center for Community Progress, NeighborWorks America, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and other national organizations.
Learn more about Dr. Akilah Watkins →
The addition of Rubio, Lizama and Watkins expands the breadth of experience represented on Washington Area Women’s Foundation’s Board and supports the Foundation’s continued commitment to strong leadership, strategic partnership and lasting change across the Washington region.
About Washington Area Women’s Foundation
Washington Area Women’s Foundation is a community-supported foundation that invests in the power of women and girls of color throughout the Washington, D.C. region. Through strategic investments, advocacy, research and partnerships, we ensure access to the resources, opportunities, and equitable systems they need to drive lasting change for entire communities.
For more information, visit thewomensfoundation.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Talisa White
twhite@wawf.org