Maria Clara De Araujo Takes the Helm as Vice President of Contract Operations at Didlake

Didlake Welcomes Maria Clara De Araujo as New Vice President of Contract Operations

In a significant move, Didlake, a renowned nonprofit organization focused on providing rehabilitative services, has appointed Maria Clara De Araujo as the Vice President of Contract Operations. This decision was officially announced on February 12, 2026.

With over ten years of leadership experience in federal contracting, operations management, compliance, and quality assurance, De Araujo is poised to make a considerable impact on Didlake's operations. In her new role, she will oversee contract performance, operational excellence, and customer engagement across Didlake's federal portfolio.

Paul Gravley, the CEO of Didlake, expressed enthusiasm regarding the appointment. He stated, "Didlake's mission is rooted in the belief that employment transforms lives. Maria Clara's operational expertise, disciplined approach to compliance, and passion for mission-driven service will elevate our partnerships and enhance our impact across the communities we serve." This sentiment encapsulates the ethos of Didlake - a commitment to not just providing services but enriching lives through employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Before joining Didlake, De Araujo held the position of Director of Quality Assurance and Compliance at Chimes, Inc. In her role there, she was instrumental in implementing comprehensive quality assurance systems and audit readiness programs. Her experience included executive liaison duties with SourceAmerica and several federal agencies, where she worked on compliance, quality performance, and continuous improvement initiatives. This unique blend of expertise aligns seamlessly with Didlake's objectives, ensuring a continued focus on excellence in service delivery.

In her own words, De Araujo expressed her commitment to Didlake's mission, stating, "Didlake is an organization where operational excellence and social impact go hand in hand. I am honored to join a team so deeply committed to both customer success and expanding meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities." This reflects her strong alignment with Didlake's goals and values.

De Araujo holds a Master of Science in Public Policy from George Mason University and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. Additionally, she is recognized for her Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification and is an active member of the National Contract Management Association.

Founded in 1965, Didlake has established itself as a key player in rehabilitative services for individuals with disabilities. As a participant in the AbilityOne® government contracting program, Didlake delivers high-quality services across multiple federal contracts. The organization is committed to creating pathways for greater independence and economic opportunity. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees, Didlake currently supports more than 1,500 individuals with disabilities in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and the Greater Hampton Roads region.

Didlake is licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia and accredited by CARF International, highlighting its commitment to excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. The appointment of Maria Clara De Araujo signifies Didlake's dedication to enhancing its operational capacity and furthering its mission of service to the community.

For those interested in learning more about Didlake or the new appointment, further details can be found on the organization's official channels.