Position: Project Director
Graduation: BA Political Science, Depaul University, Spring 2004, J.D. Chicago-Kent College
Occupation: Futterman Howard Watkins Wylie and Ashley, Chtd.
Rafael A. Vargas is an associate in the law firm of Futterman Howard Watkins Wylie and Ashley, Chtd. He practices primarily in the area of civil rights, focusing on equity in education. Mr. Vargas also has experience in litigating individual and class action consumer protection and securities cases representing plaintiffs, such as investors, employees, small businesses, and consumers, in complex class actions and other cases involving fraud, antitrust and consumers' rights.
Currently, Mr.Vargas is involved in a groundbreaking lawsuit in the largest school district in Illinois outside of Chicago that addresses closure of schools in minority neighborhoods and proper provision of English Language Learner services. He received his B.A. with Highest Honors from DePaul University and his J.D. with Honors from the Chicago-Kent College of Law. Before law school, Mr. Vargas advocated for workers' rights,organizing workers and contributing to various campaigns and initiatives aimed at empowering immigrant day laborers in Illinois. Prior to moving to Chicago with his wife, he spent two years as a wine consultant in his hometown of Philadelphia, representing over 100 wine producers throughout the world.
Mr. Vargas currently serves as a member of the High Jump Auxiliary Board, helping to mentor and provide academic enrichment to disadvantaged children throughout the Chicago area.