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Norma Fuentes
Government Relations Associate at Stricklin & Associates and Fuentes Consulting/ JD Candidate at LUC Law
Professional Background
Norma Fuentes is an accomplished Government Relations Associate with a robust track record of tracking policy, advocating for change, and nurturing relationships with government officials on behalf of a diverse clientele. Her experience encompasses organizing and conducting meetings designed to effect meaningful change in legislation and policy. With a keen understanding of the complex interplay between government and various sectors, Norma has proven to be an invaluable asset to her clients, which include organizations and individuals across different industries. Her professional journey has equipped her with the necessary skills to navigate the intricacies of government relations and policy advocacy, making her a prominent figure in the field.
Having worked for several successful candidates, Norma's political engagement is evident. She has honed her skills in advocacy through her experiences in multiple roles, and she possesses a strong passion for pertinent social issues such as mental health, criminal justice, education, and the burgeoning cannabis industry. This range of interests reflects her dedication to understanding and influencing the regulatory landscape, ensuring that she and her clients can effectively address challenges and seize opportunities in an evolving society.
Education and Achievements
Norma Fuentes's educational background is as impressive as her professional experience. She earned her Juris Doctor (JD) from the prestigious Loyola University Chicago School of Law, where she acquired a strong foundation in legal practices that informs her work in government relations. Her academic journey also includes dual Bachelor's degrees from the same institution: one in Criminal Justice and Criminology and another in Psychology. This interdisciplinary education provides her with unique insights into human behavior and societal mechanisms, which are particularly valuable in her work dealing with mental health and criminal justice reform.
In addition to her Bachelor's degrees, Norma possesses an Associate's degree in French, showcasing her commitment to language and communication. Language skills bolster her ability to connect with a wider audience and enhance her relationship-building capabilities in a diverse political and cultural landscape.
Notable Experience
Norma Fuentes has an extensive work history that includes several noteworthy positions. Currently, she serves as a Government Relations Associate at Stricklin & Associates, a role that underscores her commitment to advocating for her clients' interests at the intersection of government and policy. In her previous capacity as a Government Affairs Associate at Fuentes Consulting, she further developed her skills in policy advocacy and strategic communication.
Her earlier experiences include being a Paralegal at Katz, Friedman, Eagle, Eisenstein, Johnson & Bareck, where she gained invaluable legal knowledge that continues to shape her approach to government relations. Additionally, Norma served as an Administrative Program Coordinator at the American College of Surgeons, where she was instrumental in managing complex programs and initiatives.
Furthermore, she completed a notable internship with the Cook County State's Attorney Office in the Child Protection Division, which allowed her to gain hands-on experience in the juvenile justice system. Her role as a Research Assistant and Communications Intern at the South African Faith and Family Institute reflects her dedication to social justice and advocacy on a broader scale. She has also contributed to community improvement efforts as a Marketing and Communications Intern at the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce.
Her passion for education and youth development is evidenced by her tutoring role at Circesteem and involvement with the Chicago Youth Circus, where she helped to empower young people through education and the arts.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Norma Fuentes has made significant strides in the field of government relations. Her ability to analyze policies and advocate effectively for her clients has led to tangible change in various sectors, particularly in areas that impact mental health, education, and criminal justice. Norma's commitment to these causes not only reflects her professional interests but also her desire to create a better society for all.
With a firm belief in the power of advocacy, Norma immerses herself in all facets of the cannabis sphere, understanding the legal nuances and potential implications for public policy. Her diverse perspective and strong analytical skills allow her to engage productively with an increasingly younger and more diverse state government, making her a pivotal player in discussions around contemporary issues.
Overall, Norma Fuentes's background as a government relations associate is characterized by her extensive academic qualifications, practical experience across various sectors, and unwavering commitment to advocacy and social change.