WAU Alumnae Forge Path From Athletics to Law Through Shared Connections
Written by: IMC Director Simonique Dietz
Takoma Park, Md. — Washington Adventist University (WAU) alumnae Gwen-Marie Davis Hicks (’02) and Petra L. Aaron (’97) credit their shared academic and athletic experiences at WAU with shaping their journeys to legal success. Though they attended WAU at different times, their student-athlete backgrounds fostered the discipline, time management, and resilience that would later define their professional careers.
Davis Hicks, a communications major and standout athlete in basketball and volleyball, attributes her ability to juggle demanding schedules to her time at WAU. “Balancing early-morning practices, classes, and games prepared me for the rigors of law school and my legal career,” she said. Now the founding and managing partner of GDH Law, headquartered in Prince George’s County, Davis Hicks specializes in business and personal injury law, handling cases involving catastrophic injuries, medical malpractice, and more.
As a national speaker and current president of the Maryland Association for Justice (MAJ), Davis Hicks is a prominent advocate for civil justice reform. Beyond her thriving career, she mentors aspiring attorneys and remains dedicated to community service while balancing her roles as a wife and mother of three.
On Dec. 7, during Washington Adventist University’s annual Homecoming game, she was honored for her contributions to the Athletics Department, her career achievements, and her impact on the field of law in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area.
Aaron, who majored in clinical laboratory science and performed as a member of WAU’s Acro Airs, credits her scientific and athletic background for her litigation success. “My understanding of medical science enables me to interpret records and present them effectively in court,” she explained.
Aaron’s legal career began as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Baltimore, where she prosecuted major cases, including those in the Special Victims Unit. Now a senior trial attorney at GDH Law, Aaron champions diversity and inclusion in the legal profession through leadership roles in organizations like MAJ and the American Association for Justice (AAJ). “Faith and preparation are key,” she said, noting that she never enters a courtroom without prayer.
Their friendship blossomed when Aaron and Davis Hicks reconnected after WAU through mutual acquaintances. Despite initially meeting outside of school, their WAU connection played a pivotal role in their professional relationship. When Davis Hicks founded her firm, Aaron joined as a senior trial attorney and, as of January, became a partner at GDH Law.
The two alumnae reflect on how their shared values from WAU have influenced their approach to mentorship, faith, and resilience. Davis Hicks advises current WAU student-athletes to “expose yourself to opportunities and network as much as possible,” while Aaron emphasizes building relationships and embracing challenges.
Their professional partnership also highlights the strength of the WAU network. From mentoring each other to inspiring future generations, Davis Hicks and Aaron demonstrate how WAU alumni can achieve excellence while giving back to their communities.
Their achievements are a testament to the leadership, service, and perseverance instilled during their time at WAU, inspiring others to follow their lead both on and off the court.
