Olivia Riley

Olivia Riley is a rising third-year law student at Northern Illinois University College of Law with a passion for criminal law, public service, and expanding access to justice. She is passionate about being a voice for individuals whose voices have been stifled by the legal system and believes that every person deserves to be heard with dignity, compassion, and fairness.

Before law school, Olivia worked with Prairie State Legal Services, where she discovered her passion for public interest and access to justice. During law school, she has continued that commitment through her work with the Winnebago County Public Defender's Office, a judicial externship, pro bono legal service opportunities, and community sealing and expungement clinics. She has also been an active member of the law school community, serving as President of the Black Law Students Association, Vice President of the Christian Legal Society, and Financial Officer of the Student Bar Association. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to servant leadership, mentorship, and meaningful community engagement.

Olivia aspires to build a career in public interest law where she can advocate for individuals and communities while helping make the legal system more accessible. She values opportunities to build meaningful professional relationships and learn from women who are committed to leading with integrity, service, and purpose. Having found confidence in her own voice, she hopes to encourage others to find theirs through mentorship, advocacy, and service.