The Northern Illinois University College of Law celebrated both the Classes of 2020 and 2021 on May 31, 2021 in separate ceremonies at the NIU Convocation Center. Alumnus Robert W. Fioretti (’78) served as the commencement speaker for both ceremonies.
“We are at a moment in time that is calling all of us to make a difference,” said Fioretti during his commencement address. He charged the graduates to use their talents to make a positive difference in our world. He also encouraged them to be open minded, be a change agent, dedicate themselves to issues they are passionate about, and to stay true to themselves.
Fioretti served two terms on the Chicago City Council as Alderman of the 2nd Ward where he focused on education, community development and job creation. He is a member of the law firm Roth Fioretti, LCC where he practices governmental law, complex litigation and civil rights. He is a former Senior Supervising Attorney of the General Litigation Division for the Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago. Fioretti represented the family of Baby Tamia in the high-profile adoption case that led to changes in Illinois adoption law.
He is deeply involved in the Chicago community, where he serves on various boards and lectures extensively. Fioretti is Past President of the Historic Pullman Foundation, and presently serves on the George M. Pullman Educational Foundation Board as Treasurer. He is active in the Chicago Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, serving as a member of the ISBA General Assembly, and the American Bar Association. In June 2021, Fioretti will be sworn in as one of 17 attorneys to serve on the Chicago Bar Association Board of Managers.
Other highlights from the ceremony included inspirational messages from Dean Cassandra L. Hill, the class speakers, and faculty of the year. In addition, graduate award winners were announced prior to the graduates receiving their diplomas.
View the NIU Law Class of 2020 Ceremony
View the NIU Law Class of 2021 Ceremony
