Seton Hall Law Alumnus Steven Llanes Selected for Presidential Leadership Scholars
Program
Seton Hall Law alumnus Steven Llanes ’13 was one of 59 individuals selected nationally
for the 2018 Presidential Leadership Scholars (PLS) program, a unique opportunity for a group of high-potential leaders from across the United
States to collaborate and learn about leadership through studying the presidencies
of George W. Bush, William J. Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Lyndon B. Johnson.
The scholars, comprised of military veterans, educators, doctors, public servants,
lawyers, and corporate professionals (among other professions), traveled to each presidential
center (Bush 41, Bush 43, Clinton, and Johnson) from February through July 2018.
“The PLS program was an incredible experience, and I am so thankful to have been a
part of it alongside such an inspiring group of leaders,” says Llanes. “I look forward
to applying the lessons learned to both my professional and civic endeavors at home
in New Jersey.”
Llanes brought a strong background to the PLS program, due in part to his current
work as a lawyer with Lowenstein Sandler LLP, where he focuses on litigation and government and corporate investigations, among
other areas. Prior to law school, he received his M.A. in public policy from Harvard
University and B.A. in communications and political science from Saint Peter’s University
(where he is currently a member of the Board of Regents). He then served in the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security as a White House Presidential Appointee, coordinating
the U.S.-UK Joint Contact Group. Afterward, he held a manager position in the private
sector at KPMG.
Having experienced a multifaceted career path, Llanes decided that becoming a lawyer
was how he could have the most impact and do the most good at home in New Jersey.
“There was no better fit for me than Seton Hall Law,” says Llanes, who resides in
Montclair with his wife and two children.
Of his current work, Llanes most enjoys the opportunity to solve complex issues, and
his firm’s commitment to clients and community—all of which mesh with key areas of
the PLS curriculum—Vision and Communication, Decision Making, Persuasion and Influence,
and Strategic Partnerships.
At his recent PLS graduation, Llanes was chosen to represent his class by asking President
George W. Bush a question regarding opportunities for immigrants. This was a special
moment for Llanes. The son of Cuban exiles and a first-generation American, Llanes
is a community leader who has focused his efforts on civic education and engagement
within New Jersey.
Both CNN and Fox News aired clips (and related stories) of Llanes’ exchange with President Bush, during
which President Bush expressed his appreciation for Llanes.