Flyers for Life

Jill Bucaro ’11 currently runs the social work program at the Montgomery County Public Defender's Office. It provides support to individual clients and advocates for community and systemwide changes to combat systemic oppression and marginalization.

In both my personal and professional life, I make a commitment to service to others and to my community,” said Bucaro. “I've spent my career as a social worker working with individuals experiencing homelessness as well as individuals caught up in the criminal justice system. I've had the privilege of developing programs to support these populations, and have seen the possibilities and potential for change when you truly listen and learn from the individuals you are serving.”

Bucaro understands that service is not a one-way street and that true change comes with collaboration, humility, a commitment to learning and a lot of hard work. Putting this understanding into action has resulted in a profound impact for the public defender’s office, implementing a new model of holistic defense services for economically disadvantaged people who seek legal assistance when facing criminal charges.

“I believe in community organizing and mutual aid efforts because I believe that true power lies in people, and without community buy-in, we will never succeed in shifting power imbalances.

Post-graduation, Bucaro has remained engaged with UD through her professional work with the students and programs in the University of Dayton’s Fitz Center for Leadership in Community. She’s also a proud season ticket holder for UD men’s basketball.

When asked about her nomination for UD’s 10 Under 10, she said, “I am so honored to be nominated for the 10 under 10 Young Alumni. I believe that my passion for social justice started at UD and my education there truly gave me the skills I needed to be a leader and an advocate in my community.”

During her time at UD, her favorite memories involved hanging out on her porch with friends and neighbors, and she counted her favorite place on campus as her room in Founders Hall.

“I was one of the very few people who lived on the fifth floor of Founders, so that crazy little attic space will always have a spot in my heart.”