Navy Veteran to Deputy Secretary: How Christopher McElgunn Utilized Experiential Education Programs and Networking to Succeed in Law
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Christopher McElgunn’s (JD ‘11) journey from Navy veteran to Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs is a testament to the power of networking and experiential education. After earning a philosophy degree and deciding to pursue law, Christopher found his path at UIC Law, where hands-on experiences in the Veterans Legal Clinic and the accelerated Trial Advocacy program played pivotal roles in shaping his career. These opportunities allowed him to develop practical skills while building meaningful connections within the legal and veteran communities.
Christopher attributes much of his career success to the power of networking. He recalls how a conversation at the Veterans Legal Clinic led to a pivotal connection with a colleague who later recommended him for his current position. “You never know where a connection will lead,” he advises. “It could open doors a decade later.”
Christopher’s journey to the legal field began with an interest in philosophy that was sparked during a seven-month Westpac tour with the U.S. Navy. An officer onboard lent him books on philosophy and their conversations deepened his interest. This intellectual curiosity led him to pursue philosophy at Northwestern University after his service. After graduation, he attended Northwestern’s Summer Pre-Law Institute, a program that cemented his decision to pursue law.
Today, Christopher serves as the Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, a role that embodies his commitment to supporting veterans. Overseeing diverse initiatives, from state veterans’ homes to outreach and cemetery programs, his responsibilities are vast and varied. He states that the most fulfilling part of his job is advocating for veterans and enacting policies that address their needs.
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Explore different areas of law. Many attorneys find that their initial career goals evolve once they start practicing.
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In addition to his current work, Christopher is part of a state government initiative exploring the applications and implications of artificial intelligence. His passion for lifelong learning and adaptability exemplifies his forward-thinking approach to leadership.
Christopher emphasized the importance of remaining open-minded in law school and beyond. “Many attorneys find that their initial career goals evolve once they start practicing,” he notes, encouraging students to explore different areas of law.
Christopher McElgunn’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, service, and perseverance. From philosophy to law, from advocacy to leadership, his story inspires aspiring lawyers and veterans alike to forge paths of impact and purpose.