What inspired you to get involved with TCDIP or WILD? 

I was fortunate to be part of the 1L TCDIP Clerkship program in ’22 Summer, which built me up with great learning, networking and community building.  I knew quickly that I wanted to lean and invest in the great legal community we have in the Twin Cities through TCDIP and WILD.

What message would you share with the next generation of law students and early-career attorneys? 

It’s a slippery slope to measure your worth by the hours you bill/study or the prestige of your title (e.g., clerkship, law review, associate, etc.).  Instead, measure your worth by the integrity of your work and how you show up for others – in the workplace and at home.

What does a thriving, inclusive legal community look like to you?

Broadly, I envision a legal community where all attorneys, especially attorneys of color, are equipped with the resources, opportunities and mentorship to share their career how they want it.  More specifically, I believe an inclusive legal community is one where the leaders of law firms and legal departments reflect the diversity backgrounds of our community.

How can we ensure our work is resilient and impactful during times of uncertainty? 

Staying connected to our core values will ensure TCDIP and WILD’s work not only remains but expands during this time where diversity, equity and inclusion work is consistently attacked.  TCDIP’s core mission is centered on building up attorneys of color in our legal community – and that is reflected and spotlighted in TCDIP’s recent refresh of its mission and vision.  As our community gets more involved in our work, it will be important to remind ourselves that the success of attorneys of color is at the heart of it.

Favorite place to eat?

Special occasion go-to has been Porzana in the North Loop.

Favorite random fun fact?

My family and I had to be rescued by the Mexican Navy when our boat broke down on a vacation in Baja California.

What is your favorite food to make?

Peruvian-style ceviche – grandfather’s recipe.

What’s your favorite park or public space in the Twin Cities?

Minnehaha Dog Park!  10/10 place if your dog loves swimming like my lab does.