Central Wisconsin News

Having immersed herself in the legal system both academically and practically, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point political science graduate Destiny Lloyd is now advancing to law school. Lloyd has been accepted to The George Washington University Law School as one of 10 Open Door Scholars, receiving $135,000 in scholarships.

Witnessing racial and social injustices within minority populations motivated Lloyd to address these issues. Her goal is to advocate for disadvantaged communities and individuals who lack the means to defend their rights.

“I was seeing patterns of injustice, which makes me want to make a change in that area,” said Lloyd. “I felt I could make an impact legally advocating for people.”

During her time at UW-Stevens Point, Lloyd engaged in student organizations and interned with Justice Point, a nonprofit organization promoting evidence-based criminal justice programs and policies. As an intern with the local drug treatment court, she attended group counseling sessions, developed advocacy skills, assisted with cases, and analyzed data on recidivism rates.

“It was very versatile. I had different options regarding the kind of work I wanted to do, such as working with clients, as a group, and even individually,” said Lloyd. “Justice Point runs some great programs and it’s important for other students and our community to see the differences they make in the lives of others.”

Lloyd has always been disciplined as the oldest of three siblings. She joined organizations that supported her career path, including serving as a senator and chair in the Student Government Association at UWSP.

In 2023, Lloyd helped relaunch the UWSP Student Legal Society. The organization aids students interested in legal careers by assisting them with preparing for the Law School Admission Test and applying to law schools. As club president, she provided information about law school exams and presented on topics such as restorative justice and race within the criminal justice system.

“I really love what I’m studying; that gives me the drive,” said Lloyd.

“Destiny’s academic background in political science, sociology/criminal justice and law and policy made her a very competitive applicant for law school,” said Professor John Blakeman. “She arrived with a focus on going to law school, and it’s wonderful to see her success in the law school admissions process."

Lloyd plans to complete her Juris Doctor degree focusing on criminal law and seeks employment in Washington D.C.