Management alumna Lina Garcia strives to help others when it’s needed most

W. P. Carey Alumni Council Member, annual supporter, and Maricopa County Public Defender-Deputy Director Lina Garcia (BS Management ’04, JD ’07) has always had a passion for community engagement and helping those who are struggling.

W. P. Carey Alumni Council Member, annual supporter, and Maricopa County Public Defender-Deputy Director Lina Garcia (BS Management ’04, JD ’07) has always had a passion for community engagement and helping those who are struggling.

“I am most fulfilled when I get to play a role in someone getting the help they need, connecting them with resources, and finding success,” says Garcia.

Garcia believes helping people is a worthwhile endeavor and something that collectively lifts others up. “One instance of kindness changed my life for the better. Our family doctor, who started his career when I was born, was wonderful to me and my family and generous with his time,” she mentions.

Because her family grew up with little, her parents had to work several jobs. “When we didn’t have insurance, our family doctor was there to provide care, and advice,” says Garcia.

“Before I left for law school, he reminded me of the importance of keeping my feet on the ground, not letting the law profession go to my head, and always helping others when it’s needed most.”

Those lessons informed Garcia’s own long-term approaches to giving back, especially through ongoing involvement at ASU.

“When I was a student, I started out by helping with mentorship programs in the Student Alumni Association,” she says.

Even now, Garcia still enjoys interacting with this community as a W. P. Carey Alumni Council member. “Connecting students with future employers and helping first generation students with the resources they need to succeed has been rewarding,” she explains.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also given her a new perspective, when it comes to direct financial support via channels like the W. P. Carey School of Business Kay A. Faris Emergency Scholarship Fund.

“Any amount someone can give, matters,” says Garcia. “Whether it’s employment changes as a result of the pandemic or resources you need to switch to a virtual platform, the last couple of years have impacted everyone in various ways.”

Garcia believes access to an emergency fund would have made a difference for her during undergraduate and law school. “For students that have the challenge of not having parents who are able to assist and meet financial obligations — whether it’s an illness, income loss, lack of transportation, or even getting enough money on your Sun Card for lunch, having access to an emergency fund is helpful.”

Lifting others up remains Garcia’s long-term focus. “My career and personal experience have informed my desire to engage with students who are the first in their families to attend college.”