DETROIT — Wayne Law alumna Zoila Del Castillo '13 was appointed Deputy Secretary of State for Economic Opportunities for the New York State Department of State by Governor Kathy Hochul.   

Del Castillo will oversee the New York Department of State’s portfolio of individual economic empowerment programs, including the Office for New Americans, the Division of Consumer Protection, and the Division of Community Services. 

 “I am excited for the opportunity to help advance and support the work of the Department of State’s programs and services,” Del Castillo said. “As I embark on this new journey, I humbly look forward to helping New Yorkers forge their future through the economic and educational empowerment of our communities."  

She thanked New York State Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez for the opportunity and is "honored to serve under his leadership while," simultaneously, given a chance to serve her community.  

As a Dominican immigrant raised in the Bronx, Del Castillo is passionate about social justice and advancing diversity in the legal profession.   

Del Castillo has been recognized by the American Bar Association with the 2021 On the Rise – 40 Top Young Lawyers Award, the Crain’s 2021 Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Champion of Change Award, and by Prospanica New York with the 2021 Top Latinx Leader: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion Award. 

“I am very grateful for the education that I received at Wayne Law and the opportunities that it afforded me, including being awarded the Damon J. Keith Center Scholarship during its inaugural year,” Del Castillo said.  

She holds a J.D. from Wayne State University Law School and a B.A. from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. 

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Contact: Nikki Taylor-Vargo 

Email: nikkitv@wayne.edu