Angie Lyon, M.J. '23
Dual-degree: Master of Jurisprudence-Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies
Angie Lyon began her career as a certified therapeutic horseback riding instructor, which is where she discovered her passion for the nonprofit sector. Her work at ILS allows her to be part of a team who works to dismantle complex legal barriers in the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in the state.
What did you do before pursuing the Master of Jurisprudence degree at IU McKinney?
I completed my undergraduate studies at the IU O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs with a bachelor’s in public affairs and a minor in policy studies. I have spent my career largely in the nonprofit sector. Meaningful work has always been an important part of my professional identity.
What sparked your interest in IU McKinney?
I have had a deep respect and admiration for the law. Worldly experience helped me understand the implications laws and policies had on people’s everyday lives in a very profound way, however I also knew that I did not want to practice law. When I began researching graduate programs, I stumbled upon the dual master’s degree program from McKinney and the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. This was the perfect intersection to things I was deeply passionate about and would provide me a unique educational background that would elevate me within the nonprofit sector.
What was your experience like in the M.J. program?
I relentlessly advocate for the M.J. program for a multitude of reasons. It offers a foundational knowledge in law and policy, it teaches you how to truly look at both sides of an issue, and the art of navigating high stakes/high stress environments. I really appreciated the benefit of tailoring your education to what directly pertains to your interest(s), as well as current and/or future career goals.
How does having earned the M.J. degree affect your everyday life?
I am the director of fund development and marketing for Indiana Legal Services, a nonprofit law firm that provides free civil legal advice and representation to low-income people in Indiana. I have found that the M.J. gives me respect and credibility among my colleagues and within the legal profession. It also allows me to understand the complexities of our organization’s work, and to communicate law in plain English over various mediums.
