Growing up in a Hartford, Conn., neighborhood wracked by gang violence and steeped in poverty, Juan Arteaga had a powerful counter-influence: his mother. “She convinced me that a college education was the way out,” Arteaga recalls.

While he had difficulty adjusting to BC’s culture initially, Arteaga went on to earn many of the University’s highest honors, including the Archbishop Oscar Romero Scholarship. He earned his law degree from Columbia University Law School, where he was managing editor of the Columbia Law Review.

Now an attorney with the firm Simpson Thacher & Bartlett in New York, N.Y., Arteaga has focused his legal career on service to others, successfully championing the legal causes of poor and battered women, immigrants, and those wrongly accused of crimes. He works closely with the non-profit group In Motion to provide free legal representation to women who are often escaping abusive relationships or negotiating complicated immigration issues. “I worked with one woman for three years, helping her get an order of protection against the husband who beat her up, secure child support, and get a custody agreement in place. When we finally brought it all to a conclusion she was in tears, and I could see the profound impact we were able to have on her life,” Arteaga recalls.

The recipient of many honors for his pro bono work, Arteaga was recently presented with BC’s Alumni Ignatian Award in recognition of his service to others throughout his career.

“I try to be the voice of the most vulnerable members of our society,” explains Arteaga.

What’s the secret of success?

It’s all in how you define it—for me, real success is having the ability to help others.

What has been the most satisfying moment in your professional life?

I helped secure the release of a client who had been falsely convicted of murder. That’s the kind of thing you imagine when you become a lawyer.

In your personal life?

I’ve been blessed with a wonderful family, and the birth of my son a year ago has been a tremendous joy.

What is your next goal?

I’d like to pursue high level government work, perhaps working for the Department of Justice or in a presidential administration.

Why did you decide to attend BC?

I wanted a Jesuit university experience, and I loved the city of Boston.

What is one thing everyone should do while at BC?

Study abroad for a semester. That is one thing I did not do, and I regret it. Also, go to a tailgate party at the Mods!

What is your fondest BC memory?

I took part in the Options Through Education program, which provided incredible support throughout my four years at BC. We overcame many challenges together and really became a family. The night we graduated was very special.

Where is your favorite spot on the Heights?

Gasson Hall.

How have you changed since graduation?

I’ve come to appreciate the smaller things in life; I stop and smell the flowers now.

What was your favorite BC class?

World history with Professor Virginia Reinburg.

What was your favorite BC activity?

I loved being part of the AHANA leadership council, working together to promote diversity on campus and other issues I care deeply about.

How much can you sing of the BC fight song?

Not much!

What was the best meal at the BC dining hall?

Barbecue cheeseburger sandwiches.

What was your first job?

Collecting carriages and bagging groceries in a supermarket.

How do you relax?

I walk in Central Park.

What do you look forward to each day?

Seeing my son’s smile when I get home.

What is something your friends don’t know about you?

They probably don’t know that I write poetry.

Who would play you in the film version of your life?

Denzel Washington.