MLS Spotlight - Lylian Pagan

What inspired you to pursue a Masters in Legal Studies at Seton Hall University School of Law, and how does it complement your background in Diplomacy and International Relations?
I have always wanted to learn about law, particularly how it can help people and its role in government. While attending law school may be ideal for some, it is a significant financial commitment. For me, pursuing an MLS was a more practical choice both financially and time-wise. The MLS program allows me to take courses online and at my own pace. After completing my master's in diplomacy, I needed a break from the intensity of traditional academic study. The MLS program also gives me the opportunity to explore the field of law to determine if pursuing an LLM or JD in the future aligns with my goals.

Your academic journey spans various fields, from Criminal Justice to National Security and Diplomacy. How have these disciplines shaped your approach to compliance and regulatory research?
Each of my degrees has advanced my career in unique ways. My criminal justice degree has provided me with a foundational understanding of how the law applies to compliance. My national security studies have allowed me to analyze issues from a global perspective and consider their impact on U.S. safety and security. Diplomacy, on the other hand, has taught me the value of bipartisanship, collaboration for the greater good, and how easily conflicts can escalate if not handled thoughtfully.

As a Vetting & Compliance Research Associate for the Harris for President campaign, you conducted comprehensive risk assessments. Can you share a challenging scenario you faced and how you addressed it?
Working on a presidential campaign was far more challenging than I anticipated. While I cannot share specific details due to a signed NDA, I can discuss the general scope of my work. My responsibilities included assessing the eligibility of donors, ensuring rally attendees posed no safety risks, and verifying that donations adhered to SEC and FARA regulations.

One notable challenge involved evaluating a prior campaign contributor for eligibility to donate to the Harris/Walz campaign. While this individual had a history of donating to the DNC, a red flag arose during my vetting process. To address the issue, I consulted with my immediate supervisor, who provided additional resources for further research. After conducting a thorough background check and seeking input from the Director of Compliance, I resolved the matter and approved the contribution.

During your time as a Legislative Fellow on the Committee on Homeland Security, you worked on aligning legislative priorities with regulatory frameworks. What was one key lesson you learned from this experience?
I learned that support staff play a critical role in shaping legislation. Members of Congress rely heavily on their staff to conduct thorough research and build relationships that facilitate bipartisan collaboration.

One surprising insight was discovering how much mutual respect exists between members of the House and Senate, even when their public interactions may suggest otherwise. Staff members are instrumental in fostering these relationships, often acting as the bridge for communication and negotiation. Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset are essential for success on Capitol Hill.

You’ve managed diverse legislative portfolios, including foreign affairs, defense, and health, while at Rep. Mike Levin's office. How do you stay updated on policy changes and ensure compliance across such varied sectors?
I used a variety of tools and resources to stay informed. Dome Watch, an app that tracks bills introduced on the House floor, was invaluable for real-time updates. Before moving to Washington, D.C., I read Surviving Inside Congress and Congressional Deskbook: The Practical and Comprehensive Guide to Congress, both of which provided an excellent foundation for understanding the legislative process.

During my time on Capitol Hill, I had access to the Congressional Research Service (CRS), which offers legal expertise and detailed analyses on various topics. When preparing for meetings with defense contractors, I utilized CRS to verify compliance-related issues. For health policy, I conducted extensive research to ensure requests aligned with congressional authority. These resources were crucial in navigating the complexities of legislative work.

At the Law Office of Eric M. Mark, you supported immigration and criminal cases. What strategies did you use to ensure compliance with complex federal and state regulations in these sensitive cases?
Working at the Law Office of Eric M. Mark highlighted the challenges of our immigration system. I ensured all immigration forms were accurately completed and submitted on time, which required staying updated on both federal and state regulations.

I regularly consulted resources from the Department of Homeland Security and the New Jersey Judiciary to remain informed about changes in immigration and criminal law. When new laws or policies were introduced, I wrote memos for urgent issues and held meetings with attorneys and staff to discuss necessary updates. This proactive approach ensured our team remained compliant and prepared.

Your resume highlights skills in compliance, legal research, and risk management. Which of these skills do you believe has been most crucial in your career so far, and why?
All three skills have been vital to my career, but compliance has stood out as particularly impactful. My experience working in the judicial system, attorney offices, and on Capitol Hill has allowed me to refine my legal research and risk management capabilities. Compliance, however, ties everything together by ensuring that all actions are legally and ethically sound, which is crucial in every professional setting I’ve encountered.

Are there any certifications or professional development opportunities you're pursuing to further enhance your compliance and legal expertise?
Currently, I am not pursuing any certifications. However, I have applied to the Blue Leadership Collaborative, an organization that trains minorities to become campaign managers. If accepted, training would begin in January 2025. My ultimate goal is to continue working in politics, potentially managing mid-term or presidential campaigns.

You’ve been actively involved in community service through Evangel Church and as a mentor with Big Brother Big Sister. How have these experiences influenced your professional growth and approach to compliance?
Growing up in a single-parent household in Newark, NJ, I benefited from community programs like Upward Bound, where mentors played a pivotal role in my development. Becoming a mentor allowed me to give back by guiding young people through their challenges.

At Evangel Church, I participated in group projects, including rebuilding homes in Puerto Rico. These experiences taught me teamwork, resilience, and the importance of honoring commitments—skills that have greatly influenced my professional approach to compliance and beyond.

Looking ahead, what are your career aspirations within the field of compliance and regulatory management, and how do you plan to leverage your diverse academic and professional background to achieve these goals?
My primary goal is to remain in politics. I plan to leverage my academic background and professional experience to rejoin the DNC in 2026 for the mid-term elections. I aspire to work on campaigns in states like Arizona, New Jersey, or Virginia, where my vetting and compliance expertise would be a valuable asset. Additionally, my experience on the Homeland Security Committee positions me well for roles on the Oversight and Accountability Committee as a Professional Staff Member or Compliance Research Staffer.