Widener University Commonwealth Law School announces new dean
Widener University has named long-time professor and current interim dean Michael J. Hussey as the next dean of its Commonwealth Law School in Harrisburg.
Hussey, whose legal background is in taxation and business organizations, has been a member of the faculty since 2004. He has served as interim dean of the school during the 2020-21 academic year. His appointment as dean takes effect July 1.
“Michael has proven himself to be a strong, effective leader, guiding the school through the pandemic and positioning it for growth and the development of new partnerships that will continue to enhance the student experience,” said Provost Andrew Workman. “Michael understands the key role Commonwealth Law School plays in Pennsylvania’s capital city, and for the bench and the bar. He is committed to programs that prepare students for successful careers, and to ensuring the law school is an inclusive and welcoming place. We congratulate him on this appointment.”
“I am honored and humbled to be named the next dean of Commonwealth Law School,” Hussey said. “As a long-time member of the faculty I know the level of dedication and commitment our professors have for preparing students for the successful practice of law. I am eager to lead the school as we emerge from the pandemic, resume in-person instruction this fall, and return vibrancy to our campus. It is a new era for growth and development.”
Hussey served as associate dean for academic affairs and associate professor of law before being named interim dean in 2020. He co-directed the school’s Business Law Advising Program, which he founded. He teaches and writes in the areas of taxation, business organizations, and wills and trusts. He has also directed the school’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for 16 years, working with students, alumni, and other volunteers to provide tax preparation annually for low-to-moderate income taxpayers – an effort that has resulted in more than $4 million in tax refunds for senior citizens and working families. He also serves on the United Way of the Capital Region’s Board of Directors.
He earned his law degree magna cum laude from St. Louis University, where he also graduated summa cum laude with bachelor of arts degrees in mathematics and philosophy. He holds an LLM in taxation from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law. Prior to his work in education, Hussey practiced law with firms in St. Louis and Belleville, Illinois.
Central Penn Business Journal named him to its Class of 2010 “40 Under 40” list of standout young professionals. The students of the law school’s 2009 graduating class voted him the recipient of the Outstanding Faculty Award.
Hussey lives in Mechanicsburg, PA with his wife Julie and their four children.
