Susan Zielke was one of PILI’s first Board Members from outside of Chicago when she joined in 2013. She has worked at Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation since graduating from the University of Illinois College of Law in 1997, first as a Staff Attorney, then as a Senior Supervisory Attorney and now as the Managing Attorney of the Eastern Regional Office in Champaign. Land of Lincoln provides free civil legal aid to low-income people and seniors in central and southern Illinois. In many parts of this region, Land of Lincoln is the only civil legal aid agency available.
In addition to her work with clients, Susan supervises PILI Interns and Fellows, as well as other law student and undergraduate volunteers. She was also instrumental in helping launch PILI’s Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committees, and currently serves as a committee member in the Fifth, Sixth and Eleventh Judicial Circuits.
“I enjoy working alongside dedicated private attorneys who see the need for pro bono, and the value of giving back with their legal ability,” said Susan.
Susan also works with her office pro bono program and the local bar associations, as well as the University of Illinois College of Law. When she is not providing legal aid, she volunteers at her children’s school, working with their band and drama departments. She also serves as a mentor for a group of high school girls.
Susan enjoys serving on PILI’s Board, and working on “the variety of projects we take part in through the circuit-wide Pro Bono Committees.” Her unique perspective is invaluable as PILI expands its pro bono programs in Illinois outside of Chicago.