Leah P. Levi is Special Counsel in the Office of Chief Counsel within the Division of Trading and Markets at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In her role, she contributes to the Commission’s mission of protecting investors, promoting fair and efficient markets, and facilitating capital formation. Her work is informed by a sophisticated understanding of financial regulation, corporate governance, and the operational realities of major market participants.
Leah’s path to the SEC reflects a breadth of experience across regulatory, in-house, and compliance environments. She began her legal career in multiple in-house counsel settings, an atypical trajectory that strengthened her business acumen and sharpened her ability to analyze legal issues from the vantage point of both regulators and industry. Prior to joining the SEC, Leah held a legal role at T. Rowe Price in which she contributed to high-impact regulatory, compliance, and corporate governance matters spanning multiple legal teams, including Retirement Plan Services, Capital Markets, Corporate, and U.S. Collective Funds, 40-Act & Intermediary Services. She also gained substantive experience in global investigations and compliance at Zimmer Biomet, contributing to cross-border inquiries, data privacy advisory, policy analysis, and internal investigative strategy.
Leah earned her J.D. from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, where she distinguished herself through academic excellence and advocacy achievements. She was awarded The Litigation and Advocacy Award as well as the Jerome E. Deise Medallion of Excellence in recognition of her exceptional courtroom skill and commitment to legal advocacy. She also distinguished herself on both the National Trial Team, where she served as Judges Committee Co-Chair, and the Thurgood Marshall National Trial Team, where her team earned a first-place finish. In addition, she was selected as an Association of Corporate Counsel National Capital Region Scholar and elected Vice President of the Business Law Society.
Leah received her undergraduate degree from Widener University, magna cum laude, where she has served on the School of Business Advisory Board and completed a leadership certificate through the Oskin Leadership Institute, later returning as an instructor of leadership philosophy.
Leah is also deeply committed to community and professional service. She is a Business Volunteers Maryland GIVE program alumna, and has served as a long-standing mentor in several Baltimore-based youth initiatives. She also holds a leadership position as Co-Chair of the Women’s Bar Association of the District of Columbia’s Government Attorneys Forum, where she contributes to professional development and community-building efforts among public-sector attorneys.
Beyond her professional commitments, Leah is known for her discipline and drive, often beginning her day at 3 a.m. before heading to a 5 a.m. Orangetheory class. She enjoys golf, tennis, and the creative focus she finds in pottery and painting. Leah is also an avid reader and podcast enthusiast, continually exploring new ideas and perspectives that support her professional and personal growth. She values time with her husband, family, and friends and prioritizes creating meaningful experiences both at home and abroad.
When did you join the WBA?
2024
Why did you join the WBA?
I was first introduced to the WBA through its Golf Classic, an event that immediately showed me just how welcoming, accomplished, and supportive the WBA community is. From that moment, I knew I wanted to be part of an organization that cultivates excellence at such a high level.
I joined the WBA to connect with DC-area attorneys and to strengthen my expertise within my practice interests through the Association’s high-quality programming. The WBA consistently delivers substantive, practice-area focused events, thoughtful discussions on professional development, and opportunities to stay aligned with evolving legal and policy developments, all of which contribute meaningfully to the broader legal community.
I am also committed to advancing women within the legal profession, and I value being part of a network of attorneys who embody leadership, integrity, and ambition.
What benefits do you get from being a part of the WBA and why do you think others should join?
The WBA offers a wide range of benefits that support both personal and professional growth. Its dynamic programming covers topics such as skills development, career transitions, leadership readiness, and well-being. Members gain access to a robust career toolkit, meaningful mentorship, and a network of attorneys who are committed to empowerment and mutual advancement within the legal profession. And, importantly, the WBA creates space for authentic connection and fun, something that makes the experience truly special.
Being part of the WBA has allowed me to strengthen key professional competencies such as strategic and innovative thinking, legal and policy awareness, and the ability to navigate complex professional environments. The WBA’s thoughtful programming and community support align closely with the type of legal career I am building.
Others should join the WBA because it provides an unparalleled combination of community, professional excellence, and shared purpose. WBA members support one another as they collectively elevate the practice of law.
Do you have a mentor/hero? Please describe her/his impact on your professional and/or personal life.
I have been fortunate to have several mentors throughout my journey, each offering guidance at different stages of my development. But the first mentor who truly shaped my mindset was a CEO I met during my undergraduate years. She shared her story of rising through the ranks and ultimately purchasing the company, an achievement that instantly inspired me.
Her impact on me was profound. She encouraged me to pursue every opportunity, even those that felt ambitious or seemingly out of reach. She reminded me that only I can define my potential, and that with clarity, preparation, and determination, doors begin to open. Her confidence in me reinforced a lesson I carry today: others will recognize your abilities once you boldly recognize them in yourself.
She also sparked my love for networking. She was impressed by how comfortable I was engaging with her and asking thoughtful questions. That moment taught me the value of speaking to people across all industries and backgrounds; you never know what insight, connection, or inspiration a conversation may bring. Since then, I’ve embraced the importance of cultivating a diverse, versatile network.
Her guidance also shaped the way I approach professional relationships. She encouraged me to be intentional about positioning myself near the people, opportunities, and institutions that reflect where I aspire to go. That mindset has influenced how I build my network, identify mentors, and pursue growth throughout my career.
What words of advice do you have for women new to the profession?
Trust your voice, even before you feel fully established. You belong in every room you enter, and your perspective adds value from the very beginning. Approach your career with both confidence and strategy by building relationships across all levels, investing in mentorship, and staying engaged with organizations, similar to the WBA, that offer guidance, resources, and a sense of belonging. The legal field can be demanding, but when you build a strong network of peers, partners, and allies, you create a foundation that sustains you throughout your career.
Be proactive in seeking assignments/opportunities that stretch your abilities and embrace the learning curve that comes with them. Stay curious, and remain open to feedback; it will accelerate your growth. Advocate for yourself with the same clarity and resolve you use to advocate for others. Preparation, integrity, and professionalism will shape your reputation, and the intentional steps you take early in your career will continue to open doors as you advance.
What is the best advice you have received?
The best advice I have ever received is “to strive to be the hardest working person in the room at all times.” That mindset shaped my approach to every opportunity, showing up with grit, discipline, and the determination to change my circumstances through effort, preparation, and consistency.
I was also taught never to limit myself. Apply for that opportunity that feels just a little out of reach. Then go out and network, because hard work opens doors, but relationships help you walk through them. I have also learned that collaboration plays an essential role in meaningful work, and that engaging with colleagues who bring different strengths and perspectives can enhance both the process and the outcome.
Throughout my career, I often heard people say, “How did you get that opportunity? You’re so young.” Those moments reinforced a powerful truth: age, or any other prescriptive benchmark people often rely on, is not a barrier when your work ethic is clear, your ambition is visible, and you are willing to pursue opportunities with confidence. That advice has guided me through every chapter of my professional journey.
What other organizations are you involved in (professional, civic, etc.)?
Women’s Association of Venture and Equity (WAVE), Washington Bar Association, Queens on the Greens, Business Volunteers of Maryland (GIVE Program)