After years of dedicated service with Immigration Counseling Service (ICS) and more than four decades of unwavering commitment to social justice, we are honored to celebrate the retirement of Jean Sheppard.
Jean first joined ICS in 2018 as a volunteer attorney, bringing a wealth of experience and a heart for service. In 2021, she became a full-time attorney and continued to advocate fiercely for low-income immigrants. Jean’s commitment to justice is matched only by her devotion to Hood River, where she volunteers with the library, Rotary Youth Exchange, and United Way — a true embodiment of service above self.
Jean, your legacy is one of courage and compassion. You have worn many hats and made the world a better place in each role. From all of us at ICS and beyond: thank you. We will miss you deeply, but your impact will continue to grow.
Please read Jean’s personal note below and join us in thanking her for decades of service.
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Jean Sheppard
When I was in sixth grade, my teacher organized our classroom into the three branches of government. I was assigned to the Supreme Court and fell in love with learning about how the U.S. Constitution affected the lives of normal people.
When I told my parents that I wanted to go to law school, they said that “girls can’t be lawyers.” Being a very stubborn child, I wanted to prove them wrong. Fourteen years later, they were in the front row when I was sworn in to the bar.
None of my grandparents were born in the United States, so I felt compelled to support our immigrant community. I have helped people adjust their status, seek asylum, and become U.S. citizens. I am proud of the work that ICS does, especially serving low-income families.
After 43 years, I am retiring on June 30. While I look forward to traveling and spending time with my children and grandchildren, I am very mindful of the challenges faced by our immigrant community today. My commitment to immigrant equity and justice remains as strong as ever, and I hope others will join this cause.
— Jean Sheppard, Staff Attorney, Immigration Counseling Service Hood River Office
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Frank Garcia is executive director of Immigration Counseling Service
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