Who are you?
My name is Anna Vacanti. I am the daughter of a small business owner and emergency nurse, now professor. I grew up in a small town here in eastern Iowa before heading north to Dubuque to complete my undergrad at Loras College. I then returned to my home area, attending the University of Iowa College of Law. My husband and I live in Mount Vernon and enjoy living in a small town with a lot of character.
Who do you represent?
I represent injured individuals that need an advocate to help them navigate through the legal system.
What led you to this work?
In my experience, it is much easier to face the challenges of life when you don’t have to do it alone. I spent my time in school trying to find a career path that was interesting to me, played to my strengths, and allowed me to be an advocate for others.
What motivates you to do what you do?
It means a lot to me that I get to help my clients individually while also promoting systematic change that will help protect others from the same kinds of acts that injured my client. I believe that the law helps to hold people and companies accountable to treating those around them fairly.
What do you do when you are not working as an attorney?
I am lucky enough to live close to my parents and my two siblings and their families. As the youngest in my family, I love becoming a super fan for the different activities and events of my nieces and nephews. Much of my extended family lives in the area as well, so I really enjoy spending my weekends with my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins when we are able to get together.
If you weren’t an attorney, what would you be doing?
I think I would enjoy doing event planning, as I love how all the little details of things can come together to turn a vision into reality. In high school and college, I did graphic design for my school yearbooks and newspapers, so on occasion I get to design bridal or baby shower invitations for family or friends.
How do you relate to your clients?
Growing up in a small town and a big family, I have learned the importance of communities coming together when those around us face tragedies and hardships. I feel honored to have the opportunity to get to know my clients and their situation like a small town neighbor, until I understand not only what they have experienced, but how it has changed their lives.