Victoria Clark is the Former Senior Deputy Associate Counsel at The White House and Oversight Counsel at the Department of Homeland Security and is currently exploring new opportunities.
After years of public service, Victoria recently transitioned from the federal government, where she focused on investigations. At The White House, she worked on vetting nominees for Senate-confirmed roles, a role that allowed her to dive into diverse topics, connect with people, and identify key risks. Before that, she served as Oversight Counsel at the Department of Homeland Security, working on congressional investigations. Earlier in her career, Victoria served as Counsel on the House Oversight Committee’s Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis and as an attorney at the Federal Aviation Administration, where she represented the agency in enforcing safety regulations. She also has several years of criminal defense experience as a CJA panel attorney in DC Superior Court, where she also clerked for two years.
Outside of her career, Victoria is passionate about creativity and nature. She is a certified yoga instructor, an avid gardener with a thriving flower and produce garden, and an enthusiastic home baker. She operates a micro-bakery that specializes in both standard and gluten-free baked goods, as well as homemade vanilla extract, caramel sauce, and other treats. She is also very competitive about completing the daily crossword puzzle. She lives in Washington, DC with her husband, who works in tech and AI, and their dog, Coconut.
Victoria joined the WBA in summer 2023 and serves at the co-chair of the Politics and Public Service Committee.
Why did you join the Women’s Bar Association?
I joined because I admired the wealth of knowledge shared at WBADC events and appreciated the support I received from its members, even before becoming an official member. WBADC stands out as a place where women lawyers genuinely uplift one another.
What benefits do you get from being a part of the WBA and why do you think others should join?
The WBA offers more than just professional development; it’s a community of inspiring, supportive women attorneys. Being part of this network has not only enriched my career but also brought joy and camaraderie into my life. I encourage others to join for the opportunity to grow, share knowledge, and build meaningful relationships.
In what other organizations are you involved?
I’m deeply committed to fostering community and driving impact. Currently, I serve as Chair of the Arena Stage’s Young Patrons Board and hold a seat on the theater’s Board of Directors. I’m finishing my term as President of the Cornell Black Lawyers Alumni Network. Additionally, I am the ABA Section on Civil Rights and Social Justice Liaison to the Standing Committee on Election Law. I’ve been active in the National Bar Association for years, currently co-chairing the Women Lawyers Division’s “We Empower” mentoring program. Recently, I joined the Junior League of Prince George’s County and serve on several committees there.
What words of advice do you have for women new to the profession?
Focus on people. The relationships you build with others in the legal community will make your career more fulfilling, whether or not they lead to specific opportunities. Investing in those connections will create a sense of purpose and belonging that makes the hard days easier.
What is the best advice you have received?
Go for it. The worst they can say is no.