As a nationally recognized immigration law advisor with experience in immigration law and policy, Rená assists in managing the firm’s pro bono practice with a focus on supporting the humanitarian immigration docket, including asylum and refugee matters. She maintains an active immigration practice with a particular focus on representing persons fleeing human rights abuses, developing and managing innovative programs involving dozens of Akin lawyers.

Prior to joining the firm, Rená led the Humanitarian Affairs Division at the Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), where she played a key role in shaping policies, regulations, and guidance related to humanitarian immigration. She has also previously served as the chief of programs for the Tahirih Justice Center and as counsel to the director for the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. She has over 20 years of experience in developing immigration policies, regulations and guidance on humanitarian immigration policy strategy, managing immigration law programs and advocating on behalf of clients in various immigration matters.