WellPoint is the nation's largest health benefits company in terms of medical membership, with approximately 35 million Americans nationwide covered through its affiliated health plans. In 2008, WellPoint generated operating revenue in excess of $60 billion. WellPoint's mission is to improve the lives of the people it serves and the health of its communities through simplifying the connection between health, care and value.

Ms. Braly assumed her responsibilities in June 2007, after serving as executive vice president, general counsel and chief public affairs officer for WellPoint. In her previous role, she was responsible for public-policy development, government relations, legal affairs, corporate communications, marketing and social-responsibility initiatives. She managed the nation's largest Medicare claims-processing business and the federal employee health-benefits business.

Ms. Braly, who began her career as a lawyer in private practice, was also previously president and CEO of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri, managing all aspects of the business and setting strategies to exceed customer needs.

In 2008 Ms. Braly was ranked #4 on Forbes magazine's "World's Most Powerful Women" list, and was ranked #5 by Fortune magazine on its list of the "50 Most Powerful Women." In 2009 she was named as one of Modern Healthcare magazine's "Top 25 Women in Health Care," and she is one of only two women to lead a Fortune 35 company.

Ms. Braly received her juris doctor from Southern Methodist University School of Law and her undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University.