Meet the Class: 1L Reauna Stiff, Former Class President

Today we launch our "Meet the Class of 2025" series with 1L Reauna Stiff, who was president of her class at Minnesota State University-Mankato and a staunch advocate for the needs of homeless students. She hopes one day to one day be a civil rights lawyer

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Could you discuss a little bit about your background? 

In my final year of undergrad, I served as student body president of 14,000 students, combining my interest in governance and advocacy. During my term I created a new position for a social worker at my university who could guide homeless students toward housing resources. I additionally secured a contract for a new housing website that would increase transparency between landlords and student tenants.

You’ve had some interesting life experiences. Could you describe one or two of them?

Working with nonprofit organizations, including  Students United, continues to add value and excitement to my professional life experience. While serving on the SU board, I traveled to Washington, D.C., for one week to lobby on Capitol Hill for more funding and an expansion of services for students within all levels of higher education. 

What do you hope/plan to do with your legal education (realizing, of course, that may change during the course of your studies)?

Upon receiving my J.D. degree, I plan to transition into a judicial clerkship. I believe observing how cases are argued and decided upon will help me become an effective litigator. Eventually, I hope to specialize in civil rights law, argue against death penalty cases, and work for a civil rights division of a government agency. 

There are many choices on where to go to law school. Why did you select Minnesota Law?

Minnesota Law checked every box regarding my standards of scholarship, diversity, support, and speciality. I was especially interested in the numerous public interest clinics and pro bono opportunities I would have access to at Minnesota Law. As an Illinois transplant, I must also note that Minnesota has become my home and continuing to live here excited me.

Minnesota Law strives for a diversity of perspectives in the classroom. What are you hoping to add to the mix?

Being raised in a non-diverse area as a young Black woman quickly taught me how important exposure to diversity is. As a first generation law student, I hope to encourage my classmates to be active agents of change within the legal field in order to remove, rework, and rebuild systems that negatively affect vulnerable communities. 

Minnesota Law as an institution emphasizes leadership. What does leadership mean to you?

I have learned that leadership is synonymous with service. One cannot lead without directly or indirectly serving others in the process. My own leadership roles have required me to think about the various interests and needs of different populations. Genuine advocacy requires us to look beyond our limited experiences while using our platform to advance worthy causes. 

What are you most looking forward to in being a law student?

Beginning law school has been a long term personal goal of mine. I am looking forward to finally just existing in the space I have worked so hard to get to. I am eager to establish deep friendships and build meaningful bonds with professors. 

What are your hobbies/ interests?

I am really interested in skincare, decorating, and oddly enough, cleaning. I appreciate cozy nights inside but traveling, attending comedy shows, and going on walks are also hobbies I enjoy. Fall is my favorite season so I’m looking forward to spooky season activities! 

How do you like to spend your free time?

I am a foodie at heart so trying new restaurants is something I do regularly. I also enjoy spending time with my nieces and nephews and working out. Shopping is a guilty pleasure of mine that I will have to limit (law student on a budget!) If asked, I am always down for a cute picture break, or two, or 10.

Do you have a favorite inspirational quote, book, or personal hero that you would like to mention?

My favorite book is Just Mercy authored by Bryan Stevenson who once said, “The true measure of our commitment to the rule of law, fairness, and equality cannot be measured by how we treat the rich, the powerful, the privileged, and the respected among us. The true measure of our character is how we treat the poor, the disfavored, the accused, the incarcerated, and the condemned.”

Something interesting about me that others might not know.

I plan on one day retiring outside of the United States!

Anything else you’d like to share?

I look forward to establishing deeper roots in Minnesota and connecting with my classmates. Go Gophers!