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Portrait of Rachel Hinojosa

Honor Society® member

Rachel Hinojosa

  • legal studies
  • Class of 2027
  • Myrtle Creek, Oregon

Member since July 2025

About

I am currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Legal Studies at Arizona State University, maintaining a 3.67 GPA, with a focus on tribal governance, legal processes, and advocacy. Professionally, I serve as the Tribal Court Clerk for the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, where I manage court records, assist with hearings, and ensure compliance with tribal laws and procedures.
Beyond my career, I am committed to community service. I serve as a board member overseeing foster care cases, reviewing them every six months before judicial hearings, and I am a mentor at Arizona State University, supporting fellow students in their academic success.
My academic achievements include graduating from Colorado State University Global with a 3.94 GPA and Cum Laude honors, reflecting my dedication to excellence. I am passionate about preserving tribal sovereignty, strengthening justice systems, and advocating for vulnerable children. My ultimate goal is to earn my law degree and become an attorney specializing in child advocacy, ensuring that every child has a voice and access to justice.

Education

  • Arizona State University

    legal studies

    2025 – Present

Honors and awards

  • cum laude

Goals and interests

Career goal

Lawyer

Graduate school interests

My graduate school interests include tribal law and governance, juvenile justice, and child advocacy. I am passionate about strengthening tribal sovereignty, improving access to justice for Native communities, and pursuing advanced legal education to become an attorney specializing in child advocacy.

Outside the classroom

I like to bead jewelry, wire wrapping, reading, hiking, kayaking, camping, traveling, star gazing, and learning new things. Being able to share what I know with others.

Experience

  • Tribal Court Clerk/Legal Assistant

    Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians

    Mar 2017 – Feb 2026

Volunteering

  • Board Member for Foster care cases. Still currently a member

    Citizens Review Board

    Jan 2024 – Aug 2026

Languages

  • English (US) Advanced