News Archive

For several Widener University Commonwealth Law School students, the PLAN MLK Jr. Internship Program became more than just a summer opportunity; it became a personal and professional turning point. Rishi Nayee, a rising third-year student, chose to spend his summer working with the Community…

A powerful reenactment of a little-known 1942 extradition case that tested the boundaries of justice and race in America was staged this summer for an audience of Pennsylvania trial judges, brought to life by students from Widener University Commonwealth Law School. While it’s not a public…

The next generation of Widener University Commonwealth Law School students is officially on its way. On Aug. 14, 160 first-year students gathered on campus for the annual Welcome to the Profession ceremony, a milestone moment marking the start of their legal education and the beginning of a career…

Before they even cracked open a casebook, incoming Widener University Commonwealth Law School students laced up their hiking boots.  About 16 first-year students, along with second-year student William Rafferty, joined faculty members Chiara Pappalardo, D.S. Pensley and Rebecca Waldemar…

Widener University Commonwealth Law School has finalized a new 3+3 dual admissions agreement with Youngstown State University, opening a streamlined pathway for YSU students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a juris doctor in just six years. This is Widener Law Commonwealth’s first 3+3…

For many law students, the first summer after their first year, known as 1L, can feel like stepping into the unknown. For Widener University Commonwealth Law School student Andrea Hernandez-Rodriguez, that summer became an opportunity to gain real-world experience, build confidence, and create…

Widener University Commonwealth Law School is proud to prepare students for meaningful and successful careers in law. This year, several alumni earned spots on the prestigious 2025 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists — national honors that recognize excellence and leadership in the legal field.…

Professor Anna Hemingway has spent more than two decades guiding law students at Widener University Commonwealth Law School. Now, she’s taking on a new challenge as associate dean for academic affairs, a role that allows her to support students, faculty, and the broader academic mission of the…

As the spring 2025 semester came to a close, Widener University Commonwealth Law School took time to celebrate three standout members of its community whose dedication, scholarship, and service left a lasting mark. Each award reflects the law school’s commitment to recognizing those who go above…

Widener University Commonwealth Law School isn’t just adding new faces to the faculty this fall; it’s welcoming a powerhouse team of legal minds ready to shape the next generation of lawyers. The four newest full-time faculty members—Rebecca Feldmann, D.S. Pensley, Chiara Pappalardo, and Michael D.…

For Rory Ritrievi, the path from commercial lender to bank CEO may have been paved with business acumen, but it was accelerated by law school. A 1998 graduate of Widener Law Commonwealth, Ritrievi serves as President and CEO of Mid Penn Bank. Looking back, he credits the school’s extended division…

Charles Duncan’s path from Widener Law Commonwealth to the vice president of government and regulatory affairs at Comcast was paved with purpose, public service, and a passion for leadership shaped by legal and military training. A December 2005 graduate, Duncan now leads state government affairs…