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Indiana University
DePaul University College of Law
Why did you decide to enter the legal profession?
I have always had a heart for people and a desire to make it a better world. When I began working at the Indiana General Assembly, after undergrad, I saw the power of the legislative process and impact of policies that were created and became statutory law. That is when I realized that being an integral player in developing policies was my opportunity to have a true and lasting impact on our world.
Why is DEI important to the legal profession?
It is so critically important to have lawyers from all different walks of life so that we can create and refine laws that take into account factors and situations that were either ignored or not acknowledged when many laws were initially written. We need differing perspectives to ensure that we don’t have unintended consequences that negatively impact certain members of our community and society.
Why has DEI become so controversial?
Sadly, I think so many have tied DEI to mean that ethnically diverse people get an undeserved leg up, that standards of excellence don’t apply and the historical exclusion of ethnically diverse people in the past had no negative impact.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
When I was younger the best advice I ever received was, “you can be anything you set your mind to become.” Now as a more mature person, “you need to take time for yourself and decompress.”
What advice would you give to young attorneys?
Be very strategic in your career. Craft a legal practice that matches you, your interests and passions. There is a way that you and your individual strengths and talents can add great value to the practice of law.
How do you spend your free time?
When I have free time, I love connecting with family and friends over good food. I am a true foodie, I love consuming good food, preparing good food, sharing and shopping for beautiful food at farmer’s markets.
What is the most significant change you’ve seen in the legal profession since you began your career?
The most significant change I have seen in the legal profession in my career is the proclivity for judges to lean into their own personal beliefs, rather than precedent, justice, fairness or equity.
Another significant change which is positive, is the various career opportunities for lawyers that exist outside of a traditional law firm or judiciary. Our value is seen in many roles and sectors.
What does “diversity, equity and inclusion” mean to you?
It means creating a space where all are welcomed and feel comfortable being their true selves. All people feel valued and seen and can show up being exactly who they are.
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