Featured Alumni of the Month
Featured Alumni
Molloy University's Alumni Relations Office began highlighting the lives and careers of alumni in 2005. These profiles are designed to recognize exceptional alumni who make a difference, either by making achievements in his/her chosen field; philanthropy; balancing work and life; or showing a true commitment to the community and is thereby living the Dominican Tradition of Molloy University and the Alumni Association.
This months featured Alumnus
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Gabriela Pacheco Castillo, J.D., '03
Gabriela Pacheco Castillo, J.D., '03
1. Describe your career/life choices and how you came to be doing what you are now.
I am currently Deputy Counsel for the Minority Caucus of the Nassau County Legislature. Prior to that, I served in the administration of former County Executive Laura Curran as her Executive Director of Hispanic Affairs and afterwards, as a Senior Legislative Affairs Aide. Prior to my career in government, I worked for over a decade in nonprofit/advocacy organizations as an immigration lawyer and community organizer. I knew from an early age I would pursue a legal career grounded in advocacy and organizing. My own immigrant story is what motivated me to initially pursue a career in immigration law and I dedicated myself to serving vulnerable immigrant communities in North Carolina and back home here in New York. Frustrated with the immigration legal system that left so many families separated and without options and injustices facing communities of color right here in my own community, I decided to take my experience and play a role in increasing voter participation in those very communities. Eventually that led to me work in government.
2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Playing a role in the policy making process, even at a local level, is critical.
3. What was your favorite Molloy moment?
Overall, I just loved being in a small campus that provided me with the resources and a positive experience!
4. How has your Molloy education impacted your life?
It provided me with the tools and knowledge I needed to continue my path towards a legal career and pursue my passion for advocacy.
5. What advice would you give to current students?
Take the time you're at Molloy to get involved outside of campus. There is an entire community out there that can benefit from the creativity, skills, talent, and passion college students bring. Make an impact, no matter how small, because it will be something you carry with you forever and you might change someone's entire trajectory.
Office of Development & Alumni Relations
Angela M. Zimmerman, M.P.A.
Director of Development & Alumni Relations
Julie E. Sargeant, M.B.A., '22
Development Officer