Nia Rucker serves as the Policy Counsel and Regional Manager of the ACLU office in Las Cruces, NM. Prior to joining the ACLU, Nia was a Federal Public Defender, primarily representing people accused of criminal immigration charges. During her time with the FPD, Nia worked with local community organizers and representatives to bring attention the proceedings in Federal Court. As a law student, Nia had the opportunity to intern with the State Public Defender in Albuquerque, NM. She fell in love with the green chile, stunning vistas and friendly people, so she decided to remain in New Mexico after the internship ended. Nia received her law degree from California Western School of Law and her B.A. in Anthropology and Music from Beloit College.