YOUNG ALUMNA OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sara Elizabeth Dill, Arts ’02, Law ’05
Washington, D.C.
Sara addresses the world’s most pressing issues on a daily basis. A partner at Anethum Global, she’s helped asylum seekers receive status, defended individuals accused of war crimes, and developed policies for national and international justice systems. Through it all, her motivation remains the same: cura personalis.
“Any human rights lawyer will say they want to be out of a job,” she says, “but my hope is to continue to foster tolerance and understanding, and to prevent humanitarian crises rather than having to respond to them.”
Sara chose to attend Marquette because of its commitment to public service and the global community. She felt validated about her college decision early in her Marquette career, during freshman year lectures from Dr. Phillip Naylor. He spoke about the similarities between primary world religions and their connection throughout history. Sara was moved by the example of tolerance and co-existence. “I’ve tried to implement this in my career and personal life, finding common ground and seeking to increase understanding between cultures and religions,” she says.
Outside of work, Sara volunteers for and supports organizations that promote women’s equality and children’s development worldwide. In selecting entities to work with, Sara focuses on those that work with human trafficking and domestic violence survivors and those dedicated to promoting access to education, ending homelessness and fighting hunger.
Sara is humbled to be recognized by her alma mater and gives credit to fellow alumni who have supported her throughout her career. In Sara’s words, “This award belongs to all of us, to my entire Marquette family.”
Fun Fact:
One of Sara’s favorite Marquette memories happened when local kids came to trick-or-treat in her dorm. One boy arrived late, so Sara offered to take him to get candy from other dorms. Afterward, the boy told his mom, “I’m going to study hard and do all my homework so I can go to Marquette.”