Alexandria just hired Cheran Cordell Ivery as the city attorney, replacing outgoing City Attorney Joanna Anderson.
Ivery, who starts work on Jan. 8, has been the city attorney in Hampton, Virginia, for the last five years. She replaces City Attorney Joanna Anderson, who has had the role since 2018, and announced her retirement in June.
As city attorney, Ivery will advise City Council, as well as all city agencies, provide public records and represent the city in court, according to the city.
Mayor Justin Wilson said that Ivery brings experience and energy to the position.
“The City Attorney is one of the few positions across our organization selected by Council, which reflects the level of responsibility this role holds in the City,” Wilson said in a statement. “We are enthusiastic about Ms. Ivery joining the City and look forward to her counsel and leadership.”
Ivery was previously the deputy city attorney in Portsmouth from 2010 to 2018, and from 2014 to 2018 was an adjunct professor at William and Mary Law School, which is where she earned her law degree in 2003, according to her LinkedIn profile. She also has a Bachelor’s of Science degree from Cornell University.
The Council has concluded its search for a new City Attorney.
The Council just voted to select Cheran Cordell Ivery as Alexandria’s new City Attorney, beginning in January.
She brings a wealth of experience and energy to help lead our City! https://t.co/mX1Fyqj5aP
— Justin Wilson (@justindotnet) November 14, 2023
