Faith is not usually connected with the practice of law, but it’s the word Leo Ortega JD’24 uses to explain how law school has transformed him as a person.
“Willamette brought me closer to my faith. I came to Oregon without knowing anyone in the state. Being homesick, having no friends at first, and navigating law school pushed me to my limits,” Leo says. “As I struggled early on, I was forced to reflect and deepen my reason for why I want to become an attorney. Throughout my journey here, I have transformed as a person because, most importantly to me, my faith has grown stronger.”
Leo was also sustained by a community that supported and opened new doors for him. When he walks around the Marion County District Attorney’s office — where he currently serves as a certified law clerk — he knows that he’s a part of something bigger than himself: the Willamette College of Law network.
“Being at Willamette is an easy conversation starter when I meet other attorneys and judges who graduated from this school,” Leo says. “Through conversation and practice, I have been able to cultivate a great reputation and build great rapport with lawyers in the courtroom because of where I go to school.”
The mix of personal and professional growth Leo has experienced is exemplified through his relationship with Dean Brian Gallini. After taking his Criminal Procedure class, Leo found himself in Gallini’s office deep in conversation about leadership, personal development, and more. Leo drew inspiration from Gallini’s advice: “Be where your two feet are.”
Now, Leo is ready to take the next step in his journey: a cross-country move to Miami to work in the Broward County State Attorney’s Office. He will miss the connections he’s made in Oregon, but is looking forward to being nearer to his twin brother.
Inspired by the Willamette motto — Not unto ourselves alone are we born — Leo is ready to put his legal training to work serving others. With a stronger faith in himself and in serving the greater good, Leo sees his work as an extension of the gratitude he feels towards Willamette and the people he met here.
“I want Willamette to know that I am grateful they accepted me and gave me a chance to pursue my dreams,” Leo says. “Sometimes, I contemplate how I can tell administrators, ‘thank you for giving me a chance.’ After a ton of reflection, I have come to think that my ‘thank you’ will be the good that I will do with my license.
Read more featured graduate stories
Leo is one of Willamette University’s 2024 featured graduates. To read more inspiring stories about our graduating students, click here. From student athletes and scientists to aspiring artists and attorneys, these students represent just a few of the incredible members of our Willamette community.
Please join us in congratulating the entire Willamette University class of 2024 for their accomplishments! Learn more about Willamette's 2024 commencement ceremonies.
Photo Credit: Mario Gallucci MFA'14
