Widener Law Commonwealth awarded scholarships to two veteran law students and welcomed multiple speakers, including the Pennsylvania lieutenant governor, at its annual ceremony honoring the dedication and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces.
Stephanie Patton, a second-year law student, was presented the Captain Shane Mahaffee Scholarship for Excellence during the 2018 Veterans Day ceremony. The scholarship is awarded to a worthy incoming or returning active duty student or student veteran.
Salvatore Sciacca, also a second-year law student, received the second scholarship at the ceremony. He was named the recipient of the General Carl E. Mundy Jr, USM (Ret.) and Linda Sloan Mundy Marine Scholarship Fund. The scholarship is presented to an incoming or returning student who demonstrates an outstanding academic record and financial need.
“We are thankful for the service, skill, and dedication that our veterans have provided,” said Dean Christian Johnson. “Being able to give support to veterans as they pursue a law degree is an honor that the law school is proud to be able to offer.”
Lt. Gov. Mike Stack remarked about the positive impact that the law school’s Veterans Initiative has had on the community and on local veterans. The initiative strives to provide law students who are veterans with academic, career, and financial support tailored to their individual needs and experiences.
“We need to continue to encourage veterans to get involved in public service and help people combine a career in law with a career in public service,” he said.
Professor Howard Taylor of the U.S. Army War College was the keynote speaker and presented “Working with the Law in the Battle for Cyberspace.” In his lecture he examined the role of strategic leaders in cyberspace and the issues that affect joint and multinational operations. He also explained cyberspace threats and how technological, social, and cultural factors influence the internet.
The event included the posting and retiring of the colors by Col. Robert J. DeSousa and the Cedar Cliff High School National Junior ROTC Color Guard. DeSousa is the state director for U.S. Senator Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania and serves in the State Judge Advocate General Corps of the Pennsylvania National Guard. He also led the Pledge of Allegiance during the ceremony. DeSousa served in Operation Iraqi Freedom where he earned, the Bronze Medal Star.
Music, including the Armed Services Medley, was provided by the Susquehanna High School Saxophone Quartet, directed by Eric Hartranft.
A special art presentation on loan from the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center will be on display in the Gallery through the month of November. The exhibit features drawings that were done by Korean War veteran John A. Cook, who served as sergeant in Company G, 5th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division.
