Personal Portfolio Disclaimer
This page represents Daniel McCombs' personal portfolio, experiences, and views. The content on this page does not represent the views, positions, or policies of Quasi-Legal Institute, which maintains strict nonpartisan principles in all its educational materials and programs. While this portfolio is hosted within the QLI website for convenience, it is separate from the organization's official content and may contain personal perspectives on political and legal matters.
Professional Summary
I am a Legal Studies and Political Science student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, pursuing certificates in Criminal Justice and Public Policy. My work centers on the intersection of law, governance, and equity. Through experience in legislative research, legal internships, and community-based advocacy, I've developed a strong commitment to justice reform and public accountability. As Founder of the Quasi-Legal Institute, I lead public-interest research focused on exposing quasi-legal behavior and advancing policy transparency. I'm currently seeking opportunities in legal nonprofits, government, and law firms where I can apply my skills and expand my impact.
Values & Goals
- •Justice & Equity: Committed to criminal justice reform and ensuring equal protection under the law
- •Public Accountability: Exposing quasi-legal behavior and promoting government transparency
- •Civic Education: Making constitutional rights accessible through peer-to-peer learning
- •Community Service: Supporting justice-impacted individuals and families through direct advocacy
- •Law School: Pursue a J.D. to become a practicing attorney focused on criminal justice reform
- •Public Interest Law: Work with legal nonprofits, government agencies, or public defender offices
- •Policy Reform: Contribute to legislative research and policy development that advances justice and equity
- •Civic Innovation: Continue building educational tools that make legal knowledge accessible to all
Education
University of Wisconsin-Madison
B.A. in Political Science and Legal Studies
Certificates: Criminal Justice and Public Policy
Georgetown University
Leadership Initiatives Program
Advanced Law & Trial Internship
Malcolm X College
City Colleges of Chicago
Early College Program
Illinois Institute of Technology
Elevate College Prep Program
Gamified Experience Development
Legal & Political Experience
Founder & Executive Director
Quasi-Legal Institute Incorporated
Madison, WI (Remote)
- •Founded a nonpartisan civic education organization teaching Americans their constitutional rights through interactive online tools
- •Launched QuasiLegalInstitute.org, featuring civic games and a state transparency index
- •Lead outreach, partnerships, and digital education initiatives promoting public accountability
Community Justice Internship
Kolbe House, Archdiocese of Chicago
Chicago, IL
- •Supported individuals and families impacted by the criminal justice system through community outreach and advocacy
- •Participated in restorative justice initiatives and reentry support programs for formerly incarcerated individuals
- •Collaborated with staff to develop resources and conduct educational workshops focused on justice reform and social reintegration
Field Intern
Andrea Gordillo for New York City Council - District 2
Remote
- •Conducted high-volume phone banking to engage voters, promote Andrea Gordillo's platform, and encourage turnout in NYC District 2
- •Communicated effectively with hundreds of constituents, addressing voter concerns and tracking responses in the campaign database
- •Represented the campaign professionally in every conversation, helping build trust and name recognition
- •Collaborated with field staff during virtual check-ins to refine outreach scripts and optimize efficiency
International Law & Advocacy Internship
Remote International Internship Program
Bauchi State, Nigeria (Remote)
- •Designed and executed an advocacy campaign focused on a specific legal and social issue in Bauchi State, Nigeria
- •Conducted research to inform campaign strategies and collaborated with local and international organizations
- •Delivered presentations and proposed actionable solutions to address the selected topic
Advanced Law & Trial Internship
Georgetown University Leadership Initiatives
Washington, D.C.
- •Collaborated with Brandi Harden and Heather Pinckney of Harden Pinckney PLLC on an active trial case in the District of Columbia
- •Conducted legal research, prepared case summaries, and assisted in trial preparation
- •Prepared expert witness for trial through direct and cross-examination practice
- •Advocated for client to Capitol Hill congressmen, senators, and congressional officials
- •Observed courtroom procedures and contributed to case strategy discussions
Key Skills Developed:
Skills & Competencies
- • Legal research & analysis
- • Policy writing & proposals
- • Case summaries & memoranda
- • Legislative research
- • Constitutional law
- • Public speaking & presentations
- • Written communication
- • Advocacy & persuasion
- • Cross-cultural communication
- • Stakeholder engagement
- • Leadership & collaboration
- • Project management
- • Time management
- • Critical thinking
- • Organization & planning
Certifications & Courses
Ethics in Public Policy
O.P. Jindal Global University
July 2025
Moral Foundations of Politics
Yale University
June 2025
Understanding Political Concepts
Università di Napoli Federico II
June 2025
Using Public Policy for Social Change
University of Michigan
June 2025