Margaret Gillespie, J.D. '90

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The City of Los Angeles has selected Margaret Gillespie, J.D. '90, for the 33rd "Pioneer Women Award" in recognition of her work in support of this year's theme, "Locking Arms to Solve Homelessness."

"I’m hopeful that together we'll finally start making progress in tackling this humanitarian crisis," Gillespie said.

After practicing law for 30 years, Gillespie is now executive vice president and director of outreach for West L.A. Homeless (WLAH), a nonprofit founded in 2020 to address issues surrounding homelessness in West L.A. The mission of WLAH is to create meaningful change in the lives of the unhoused by connecting people with housing and employment resources as well as physical, mental and addiction healthcare services; providing vocational and life skills education; and providing emotional support when no one else stands with them.

"I also work to create systemic change through strategic partnerships with local government and stakeholders. I firmly believe that sustainable solutions are dependent upon the entire community’s participation and support," Gillespie said.