Michael Ledford, President of Lewis-Burke Associates LLC, directs the efforts of Lewis-Burke government affairs professionals on behalf of all clients. With over two decades of experience in public policy and advocacy, Mr. Ledford provides tailored strategic counsel to leaders of colleges and universities, national management organizations, associations, government contractors, and federal laboratories.
Over the course of his career, Mr. Ledford has taken an active leadership role in each of the firm’s issue areas and has influenced policy throughout the federal process, including shepherding large-scale science projects through the congressional appropriations and oversight process. In addition to expertise in the budget and appropriations process, Mr. Ledford has assisted clients with assessments of key education, international, health, and research programs; advised client leadership on short and long-term business strategies; and worked with federal agency officials to enhance new initiatives.
As part of client advocacy strategies, Mr. Ledford has drafted legislation to create new federal initiatives, served or led in coalitions to advance specific agendas, counseled client administrations to navigate the complex federal response following natural disasters, and coordinated with senior hospital administrators during interactions with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Additional Experience: Mr. Ledford has served on multiple executive committees for higher education associations and has participated in recruitment and reorganizing efforts for national organizations. He also led the fundraising committee and served on the board of a nationally recognized D.C.-based non-profit organization devoted to safe housing for victims of domestic violence.
Vital Statistics: Mr. Ledford holds a law degree from Georgetown University’s Law School and a Bachelor of Arts degree, with honors, in political science from American University. He is also a member of the Pi Sigma Alpha and Phi Beta Kappa honor societies and the Virginia State Bar. In his spare time, he likes to compete in races, travel, and coach or watch his kids’ activities.