LEADERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE AT WORK, HOME AND THE COMMUNITY By Alison Bailin Batz
here’s no rest for the wicked, and even less for the wickedly smart and successful women across the North Valley. And they wouldn’t have it any other way. Here is a look at how several local female business leaders got to where they are today, each making a difference in Phoenix by carving their own path.
AMY COTTON PETERSON
National Health Law Practice chairwoman, Quarles & Brady LLP Amy Cotton Peterson started her career in health care as a physical therapist but pivoted to law after earning her degree in 2005. “As a physical therapist, you are often working one on one,” Peterson says. “And while I certainly felt I was making an impact, by transitioning into health-focused law, I felt I could make a bigger difference to a larger group of people.” She formally began her legal career at Quarles & Brady in Phoenix in 2006, was named a partner at the firm in 2013 and the national chairwoman of its health law practice group in 2018. “My practice focuses on health care transactions, regulatory and compliance issues, business development and provider defense,” Peterson says. “These are critical issues, especially now as we fight
through this global pandemic.” Beyond her talent, skill and dedication, Peterson brings empathy to her position. She maintains a physical therapy license via ongoing education to ensure she understands health issues. Peterson is as committed to healthrelated causes outside of the office, serving for many years as a member of the Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues and the Arizona Autism United Board. She did both while working full time and taking care of a new baby, who was born prematurely. “Today, my passion beyond my family and legal practice is Chrysalis,” Peterson says. “Chrysalis is committed to ending domestic violence through a holistic and traumainformed approach. Chrysalis gives survivors of domestic violence the safety and support they need to heal and build better lives through dozens of programs available statewide.” Peterson serves on both the board of directors and executive committee for the organization. NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2020 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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