Bio Statement
Olivia Adams is a Politics major from Chicago, Illinois, who plans to attend law school after graduating from Ithaca College to learn how to use her knowledge and voice to initiate change through law and policy. After law school, she plans to serve as an attorney, international diplomat, or elected public official. Before arriving at Ithaca College, Olivia interned with Chicago Alderman Patricia Dowell, Illinois State Representative Nicholas Smith, and Illinois Appellate Court Justice Freddrenna Lyle. Those experiences taught her how public servants make an impact on a community and its people. In Alderman Dowell's office, Olivia supported the community by organizing school supply drives, sorting mail for community residents, and helping plan district office events, such as the Chicago Bud Billiken Parade. During her time with Appellate Court Justice Freddrenna Lyle, Olivia understudied law clerks and learned how an appellate court researches, analyzes, and decides cases. Working in those spaces inspired Olivia to become involved in government work as a civil servant and to learn more about the legal system.
Olivia also bakes cakes. She began baking with her grandmother as a child and has since become proficient at baking and decorating cakes in different flavors. Olivia is currently building a website and plans to turn her hobby into a small business.
On campus, Olivia volunteers with the Southside Community Center, where she supports children from kindergarten to middle school. Olivia assists students with homework in subjects like math and history, runs educational games, and acts as a support system for the community center and its needs. Olivia believes that academic and emotional support for young people is one of the most effective ways to build stronger communities.
Olivia was recently elected to serve as a 2025–2026 co-cohort leader for the MLK Scholars Class of 2029. In this role, she will represent her cohort, advocate for their needs, and work alongside other leaders to create a positive environment of service, scholarship, and accountability.
What does it mean to be a MLK Scholar?
Being an MLK Scholar means I am part of a community of people who deeply care about justice and equality in the same way I do, and who are serious about taking action, not just talking about it. My role as an MLK scholar also matters to me because my grandmother, Stephanne Foster-Crane, raised me on stories from her life during the civil rights movement. Being an MLK Scholar is how I honor what she and civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King and Joanne Bland fought for: learning how to make a real impact on other people's lives.