Veterans-Turned-Law Students Named 2025–26 Patrick J. Murphy Fellows
Widener University Commonwealth Law School has named third-year student Brent Finkbeiner and second-year student Grant Villa-Rodriguez as Patrick J. Murphy Law and Government fellows for the 2025-26 academic year.
The competitive fellowship, funded by Widener Law Commonwealth alumnus Patrick J. Murphy ’99, former U.S. Congressman and the first Iraq War veteran elected to Congress, provides law students with hands-on experience in law and government while advancing the mission of the Law and Government Institute.
For Finkbeiner, a returning fellow and combat medic veteran who served in Iraq, the program represents a continuation of his service-oriented career. Over the past year, he promoted Law and Government Institute events, built connections with alumni, and began developing a project to address veterans' legal issues and provide information on community resources. He is pursuing two specialized certificates through the institute: administrative/constitutional law and legislation and public policy.
“In my second year of the fellowship, I want to continue my project to ensure that we have a connection with our veteran community and can provide services and information for veterans who need it,” Finkbeiner said.
Villa-Rodriguez, a Marine Corps and Army veteran, brings experience as a high school government teacher and a commitment to public service. He is pursuing the legislation and public policy certificate to gain practical skills in legislative drafting and policy analysis.
“My military service taught me discipline, responsibility, and the value of institutions,” Villa-Rodriguez said. “This fellowship is not just a title; it is the bridge to pursuing my dreams. I want to work with the Law and Government Institute to contribute to the community, support public events, and assist with projects that reflect the policy questions and institutional structures I care about.”
Both students said the fellowship aligns with their long-term public service goals. Finkbeiner hopes to continue his work with veterans while pursuing a career in law and government. Villa-Rodriguez aims to become a prosecutor and eventually work in the federal government, restoring public trust in legal systems.
“It’s hard not to be inspired by these two young military veterans and future leaders in the legal profession,” Murphy said. “They join a distinguished line of Murphy fellows who are truly making a difference in our communities and country.”
The fellowship offers students opportunities to engage in meaningful public service, expand their professional networks, and contribute to the institute’s mission of connecting law students with government and policy leaders.
