Prior to joining the VRLC, Malia worked in non-profit practicing housing and immigration law. Additionally, during law school she provided legal services and representation to students through her work at an on-campus student advocacy office. Malia received a B.A. from the University of Oregon and a J.D. from the University of Oregon School of Law. She spent a year living abroad in Mexico, and speaks fluent Spanish. Malia was born and raised in Portland and enjoys the outdoors, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.