As the economy improves or declines, there is always a need to propose changes to adapt to the new economy. Nevada experienced the most sig- nificant growth when the nation’s economy was thriving, so when the housing market crashed, there were homeowners who were the victim of shoddy construction where corners were cut to accommodate fast growth. As the nation experienced pain from the banking industry’s mishandling of money, Nevada had an exponentially greater economic downturn with so much of our economy being depen- dent upon construction. Further, with respect to meeting the needs of our children, we experienced significant growth in the foster care system and lawsuits involving our inability to meet those needs. For years, the legislature attempted to address those needs, but more frequently than not, partisanship prevented such measures from advanc- ing. I took advantage of the chance to make advances due to my relation- ships across the aisle and after term
Q: Can you describe the approach you took as a Deputy Attorney General (AG) in preparing for your cases? As a Deputy AG, I used this opportu- nity to develop not only me intellectual advocacy skills, but my courtroom presentation ability. I often repre- sented the state in complex consumer protection and securities fraud matters. I knew that with so few African Ameri- can attorneys in Nevada, I needed to be at my best and stand out. Q: Being a student body president at the college and law school level sug- gests a certain charisma and leader- ship. What is it about you that you believe earned you the vote of your peers? As a leader through my life, I have always believed in being true to myself and being genuine to others. I have always known that I know enough to know I don’t know enough, so I surround myself with people whose perspective I value. They feel val-
ued and invested when they have an opportunity to be heard, and even if they disagree, they were a part of the process. This has always helped me gain the support and confidence of my peers. Q: Why was it important to you to sup- port the youth in your community? It has always been important for me to support the youth in my commu- nity because I remember the lack of a significant number of role models and mentors when I was growing up. I recognize that for even a single kid, connecting with a mentor who takes an interest could be the spark that any given child needs to be motivated or encouraged. Q: From 2011-2014, you sponsored legislation that focused on the needs of children, homeowners and consumers. Why do you believe these needs were not properly addressed before your legislation?
Publishing achievement for more than 100 years
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