Mónica Ruiz House, a University of Chicago alumna, has been named a 2025 Marshall Scholar. Her work focuses on migrant rights advocacy, an area she has been deeply involved in during her time as a student. Ruiz House, who graduated with four degrees including law and sociology, has provided resources to migrants crossing the Sonoran Desert and supported Afghan asylum seekers in the United States.
Her recognition as a Marshall Scholar will allow her to pursue graduate studies at the University of Oxford. There, she plans to study punitive border policies and develop alternative approaches that safeguard migrant lives. "This award comes at a time when immigrants are facing unprecedented threats to their existence," said Ruiz House. "It is a call for all of us—not just the advocates or activists—to find their voice and speak of our shared humanity."
Ruiz House's dedication to public service has been acknowledged by Melina Hale, dean of the College at UChicago: “Mónica is a dedicated public servant with a commitment to immigrant and refugee populations.” Nick Currie from the University Community Service Center also praised her efforts: “Mónica has been an incredible ambassador across campus and beyond for the value of service and civic engagement.”
Ruiz House's background includes growing up in Holly, Michigan, where she experienced life as part of a bicultural family. This personal history has influenced her advocacy work along the U.S.-Mexico border. She received a $10,000 grant from Projects for Peace to collaborate with No More Deaths, an Arizona-based migrant advocacy group. Together they mapped locations where migrants have died while crossing into the U.S., highlighting issues related to Border Patrol policies.
Throughout her academic career at UChicago, Ruiz House engaged in various community service initiatives and research projects focused on immigration issues. She credits her achievements to support from mentors and fellowships teams who helped guide her through competitive application processes.
As she prepares for further studies in criminology and refugee migration at Oxford, Ruiz House continues her commitment to advancing immigrant rights. Sarah Johnson from UChicago noted: “Mónica’s dedication to advancing the rights and dignity of immigrants is unwavering.”