Meet Rachel Van Tyle, Director of Legal Services
6/17/2021
Meet Rachel Van Tyle. Rachel is our new Director of Legal Services, and she joined the team earlier this year. Rachel leads our Legal Services Program in advising and aiding our clients with their immigration law needs.
1. Tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Indianapolis, and I grew up in the Butler Tarkington neighborhood. I went to Brebeuf High School where I was really inspired by their commitment to service. The school slogan was, “men and women for others,” and I knew I wanted to pursue something in the public or nonprofit sector ever since I was young. I then went to Xavier University to study pre-med, but switched to a humanities degree and went to Northern Kentucky University for law school. I later became a volunteer and then worked full-time at the Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic for 9 years. I fell into immigration law at the Clinic and have enjoyed it ever since.
I have worked with Exodus in my previous job, I knew of the great work that they had done. I was excited to be a part of the team and help grow the legal services program.
2. Why did you want to become an immigration attorney?
I did not know how difficult it was for some immigrants to make it to the United States, so when I saw people trying to make it here and be a part of our country, I wanted to be a part of their journey to help make that happen for them.
I also spent 6 weeks in Mexico, and I became fluent in Spanish. I loved experiencing a new culture, and I became to have an appreciation for more cultures, so I knew I wanted to work with people from diverse backgrounds right here in Indiana.
3. As an immigration attorney, what is one thing you wish people knew about forcibly displaced populations?
Fleeing your home country is not an easy decision or a decision that anyone wants to do. People flee because it is life and death for their families. just think about how much it would take for your family to move to another country. Where is your limit if your kid was sick or was in danger? Wouldn’t you do everything you could for your child to receive the treatment or go somewhere safe?
4. What languages do you speak?
English and Spanish.
5. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to read and do puzzles. I am a big butler basketball fan, and I go to all of the games. I also like to hang out with my two dogs and cat. My cat’s name is Ruth Bader Catsberg.
