As an ISPP Scholar, Mary Ojoma is appointed to the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus / Black Caucus Foundation. Her work is focused on enhancing the health and well being of the Black Communities through programs and policies. Mary shared some insights with me on her work within the ISPP so far.

Why did you apply for the Illini Science Policy Program?

When I first learned about the program, I was immediately interested, because during my masters program, I had the chance to work on an initiative called the Tolerance Means Dialogue, which focuses on promoting inclusivity in diverse communities. That experience was eye-opening and really deepened my commitment to equity and social justice. So, when I came across the ISSP, it felt like the perfect next step, a chance to keep building on this work and to make a real difference through policy. This program offers a unique path to not only continue but deepen my dedication to creating a more inclusive society. 

Tell us a bit about what you hope to accomplish as a result of being a 2024 Scholar.

I aimed to deepen my understanding of public policy and how I can actually make a difference in people’s lives, especially for marginalized communities. I hope to use what I learn here to advocate for changes in areas like criminal justice reform and healthcare that will have a real impact on people facing discrimination and systemic barriers. I also hope to connect with others who are just as passionate about these issues and take those insights back to make a positive difference in my own community and beyond.

Tell us a bit about what you are working on for your host agency.

At my host agency, I’m working on several projects with the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation. My research focuses on exploring how criminal justice intersects with poverty, the effect of the cash bail system in Illinois and the increase of crime in low-income communities in Illinois. I’m also involved in organizing our upcoming Policy Summit & Brunch in December. Additionally, I am also part of the planning for the ILBCF's Innovative Policy Solutions Health Brain Trust sessions, where I research and invite health experts to join our discussions. The Brain Trust unites medical experts, community leaders, advocates, and legislators to explore key issues and health concerns affecting our community and identify actionable solutions. These sessions are insightful, thought-provoking, and interactive, creating a space where we can develop strategies to engage with the community, tackle unique challenges faced by both our community and the healthcare sector, and work toward impactful, sustainable change. 

Tell us a bit about what you are working with your Extension Mentor (or what you will be doing)?

My Extension Mentor, County Director Willene Buffett, and I are collaborating to explore health and wellness in the state of Illinois, with a particular focus on the unique challenges and needs within Black communities.

What does being in public service mean to you?

Being in public service is an opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself and make a small difference. It is also dedicating oneself to the betterment of society and working to address the needs and challenges faced by communities. It involves a commitment to advocating for justice, equity, and social change, often prioritizing the voices and concerns of marginalized groups. Public service is about fostering collaboration, engaging with diverse stakeholders, and implementing policies that promote the common good. 

What makes the work you are doing as an ISPP Scholar meaningful to you? (Please specify between you host agency work and your Extension mentor project)

The work I am currently doing as an ISPP Scholar means a lot to me because it lets me dive into areas that truly matter equity, justice, and real community impact. With my host agency, the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, I’m working on projects that tackle urgent issues like criminal justice reform and health disparities in communities of color. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my research could actually influence policies that directly address these systemic inequalities. 

This role allows me to not only bring my skills to the table but to be part of a team working toward real, lasting change for the communities I care about.

What is one thing that you have learned since becoming an ISPP Scholar that has made an impression on your transition from graduate student to career individual?

I have learned so much in this short period as an ISPP Scholar. I’ve found myself stepping up to take on challenging tasks and learning to balance multiple projects at once. Working on several initiatives simultaneously has pushed me to become more organized and adaptable, and it’s shown me the importance of prioritizing tasks without losing sight of the bigger picture. This experience has been eye-opening, helping me transition from the structured environment of graduate studies to the fast-paced, multifaceted world of community-focused work. Each challenge is teaching me how to manage complexity while staying focused on making an impact.

Why is/are the issue(s) important to the communities with which you are working?

The issues I’m working on, among others like criminal justice reform and health disparities, are really important to the communities I serve because they affect so many aspects of daily life. In communities of color, things like fair access to healthcare and equal treatment in the justice system aren’t always a given, and that has a huge impact on people’s opportunities and well-being. It’s about creating an environment where everyone has a fair chance to thrive.

Who is impacted by the issue(s) you are working on?

While the issues I am working on will primarily affect members of the Black community in Illinois, they will also have a broader impact on many others.

 What is the most unexpected thing about this program so far?

One thing for me has been that I have never anticipated having access to community leaders who are genuinely willing to listen. Their openness to dialogue and collaboration has created an environment where ideas and concerns can be shared freely. 

If you could do one thing through this program and think “Wow, I did that,” what would you like it to be?

It would be gathering solid data that really shows how poverty and criminal justice are connected. Using that information to support real policy changes or to create resources that help impacted communities would be incredibly meaningful and would make me happy.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I am thrilled about the opportunity to be part of this program. As I continue contributing to the communities I am working with, I also see myself learning and growing. It is a two-way street.

More information about the Illini Science Policy Program is available on our website. Keep reading to learn more about Mary's colleagues in the of 2025 ISPP Scholar Class.