Legal Assistant

As a first-generation college student, Samantha Perez Rangel spent her undergraduate career at University of California, Los Angeles dedicating her time to organizations that serve system-impacted communities.  Prior to California Innocence Advocates, Samantha worked as an intern with Project for the Innocent in Los Angeles, an organization that represents the wrongfully convicted.  At Project for the Innocent, Samantha partnered with staff for case investigation, researched legal issues, and served as a youth outreach coordinator.  Samantha’s efforts aided in the release of a man who wrongfully served more than 20 years in California state prisons.

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Furthermore, Samantha served in the UCLA Prison Education Program, where she collaborated with formerly incarcerated students, graduate students, and activists to develop action-orientated activism and bring unity among communities.  Samantha is also a member of the Women’s Coalition for Reproductive Justice and held a cabinet position on the Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana/o de Aztlan’s Yolotzonyo Youth Project throughout her undergraduate experience at UCLA. She served on UCLA's CALPIRG activism chapter, a student activist group dedicated to protect the environment, advocates for policy-change, and promoting civic engagement. 

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As 2022 UCLA Law Fellow, Samantha demonstrated her commitment to pursuing a legal education so she may continue to advocate for underserved communities. Samantha is also a sister of Lambda Theta Alpha, the largest Latina sorority in the nation, which promotes unity through charitable and educational programs.  Samantha also served as a the community service chair under the Delta Rho Chapter at UCLA to create events with St. Jude. This included their annual cookies and cards with St. Jude, the St. Jude soccer tournament, and Walk with St. Jude. 

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As a first generation college graduate, Samantha’s experience, drive, and compassion for others similarly affected by the system she is an incredible asset to California Innocence Advocates. 

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Samantha has also studied abroad in Italy, which created her newfound love for travel. She has visited over 7 countries and 16 cities!