Courtney T. Wilson is a Senior Trial Attorney at Nationwide in Des Moines. She can be reached by phone at (515) 508-6707 (Direct) or (515) 508-6460 (Main), or by email at wilsc36@nationwide.com
Tell us about yourself
I am from Tampa, Florida. I earned my B.A. from the University of Notre Dame, followed by my J.D. from Drake Law School. I am a third-generation lawyer and my sister and father are also lawyers. I dedicated my first five years of practice to criminal defense, juvenile law, and appellate work in the Quad Cities. Subsequently, I transitioned to the Davenport office of Hopkins & Huebner PC, where I specialized in the field of liability defense. Presently, I work as a Senior Trial Attorney at Nationwide.
Your notable achievements?
Prior to taking the bar, I interned and contributed at three of the the top four US consumer magazine publishing companies, including Meredith Corporation. As a lawyer, I’ve had the chance to argue in front of the Iowa Supreme Court during an on the road traveling session to Davenport.
Why you do what you do?
My motivation for remaining a lawyer lies in the never-ending opportunities for learning, personal growth, and the profound sense of accomplishment that accompanies the practice.
What you do to get away from work?
I prioritize self care through exercise and mindfulness practices, and I have recently taken up my childhood passion for playing tennis again. Also, frequent trips to my hometown and time spent with family and friends revitalize me.
What you do to give back to the community?
I have been a member of the Junior League since graduating from law school, initially with the Junior League of the Quad Cities and now with the Junior League of Des Moines. The organization has provided me countless opportunities for volunteering, mentoring, raising awareness, and fundraising. I also enjoy supporting local businesses.
Best thing about the Polk County Bar Association?
The PCBA provides opportunities for lawyers to enhance their professional development through continuing legal education (CLE) sessions and networking. I particularly enjoy the luncheons as they provide me with opportunities to see, speak with, and hear from other local lawyers, all while obtaining valuable CLE credits.
Words to live by?
- “Success is often achieved by those who don’t know that failure is inevitable.” CoCo Chanel
- “Doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment.” Oprah Winfrey
- “You must always have faith in people. And most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself.” Elle Woods
Your favorite book?
I enjoy fiction and anything by Elin Hildebrand. “How to Win Friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie is a classic, but a recent and enjoyable read for me.
Best place to visit in Polk County?
The Downtown Farmers’ Market, hands down.
Anything you would change about Polk County?
I would welcome more visitors and investors to Downtown Des Moines. Given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, a revitalization effort is needed to restore vibrancy to the area.
If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor and why?
Janice Innis-Thompson, Senior Vice President of Corporate Litigation & Legal Operations at Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. She serves as a leader and has extensive knowledge, insight, and experience in navigating the legal profession in both a government and corporate setting.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I have always wanted to be a fashion magazine editor.
What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life?
- “Taking the Long Way” The Chicks
- “Unwritten” Natasha Beddingfield
- “Try Again” Aaliyah
- “Girl on Fire” Alicia Keys
- The Notre Dame Victory March
Last movie you saw?
Barbie, twice.
