Phi Alpha Delta Fosters Leadership and Community at Widener Law Commonwealth
At Widener University Commonwealth Law School, Phi Alpha Delta, known as PAD, isn’t just the only legal fraternity—it’s a dynamic force shaping future leaders, forging powerful connections, and building a community rooted in service and justice. As the only legal fraternity on campus, PAD is where law students find their voice, expand their networks, and make a lasting impact both inside and outside the classroom.
Empowering Leaders and Combating Imposter Syndrome
Benjamin McFadden, a current PAD member, recently shared insights from the 65th Phi Alpha Delta biennial convention in Pittsburgh. One of the standout presentations at the convention was a keynote by Jenn Donahue, a highly decorated U.S. Navy engineer, professor, and founder of a consulting firm specializing in geotechnical engineering. Donahue’s keynote centered around the importance of compassionate leadership, and challenging traditional notions of authority by advocating for a more personalized approach.
“Jenn had a really incredible story about her boss at her engineering firm,” McFadden recounted. “He could remember every person’s name, spouse, and life goals, even though he only visited the office once a month. He revealed his secret: flashcards. He would review them on the plane before arriving at the office. It showed that he saw his employees as people first, and if you’re going to lead people, you have to know them on a personal level.” This lesson in personalized leadership resonated with McFadden, reshaping his understanding of what it means to be an effective leader. “I always thought that being nice and being an effective leader was impossible,” he said. “But Jenn made it clear that being a leader doesn’t mean we have to make others’ lives miserable. As long as people are in this together and empathize with each other, it’s possible for us to complete our missions.”
Kira Meager, a third-year law student and the treasurer of PAD, also attended the convention, where she found great value in a workshop led by James Wilkerson. Wilkerson, a former trial lawyer and a recognized expert on emotional intelligence, addressed a common issue among law students: imposter syndrome. His workshop provided a safe space to discuss feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy, which often plague students and professionals in high-pressure environments.
“Wilkerson shared that many of the law students he teaches, including himself, have felt the pressure of imposter syndrome at some point,” Meager said. “He described it as a mindset of thinking that you don’t have the capabilities to sit in the seat you are in. This has related to my feeling of imposter syndrome throughout law school because I still feel those feelings even as I go into my 3L year.”
Wilkerson’s candid discussion on overcoming self-doubt and embracing one's own journey resonated deeply with Meager. “Walking out of the workshop, I felt empowered to know that I am not alone when it comes to other law students and lawyers feeling imposter syndrome,” Meager shared. “It changed how I will approach the rest of my law school journey by not being so hard on myself as I worked diligently to get here.”
Finding Purpose Through Mediation and Advocacy
Nicholas Kahler, another PAD member, was particularly inspired by his interactions at the convention, including a conversation with a professional mediator from the New York City alumni chapter. “He recommended that I investigate taking a mediation course,” Kahler shared. “While I may never become a professional mediator, learning about the mediation process can give me an edge in civil litigation matters when representing clients. By knowing the principles of mediation, you can serve as a better advocate for your clients.”
Kahler’s summer internship at the tort litigation section at the Office of Attorney General, coupled with this advice, has deepened his appreciation for client advocacy and sparked a growing interest in civil litigation. “I now have a higher appreciation for what it means to advocate for a client,” Kahler said. “The skills learned in mediation can provide valuable insights and strategies for effective advocacy in a courtroom setting.”
Building a Network and Giving Back
For McFadden, Meager, and Kahler, the convention offered more than professional development; it was an opportunity to forge meaningful relationships and expand their networks. Kahler emphasized the value of networking and finding mentors. “I learned that there are people all over the legal profession and beyond who have had similar experiences as myself, whether in a professional or personal capacity. By meeting and networking with different people, it is possible to make meaningful connections and find mentors in different areas of law.”
Back on campus, PAD members continue to strengthen community ties through service projects and networking events. One of PAD's key initiatives is the PAD professional closet, a donation-based program providing free access to professional attire for students.
“PAD played a role in my development as I have been able to, alongside my executive board, start the PAD professional closet,” Meager explained. “This opportunity has shown me the importance of helping out my community and how an idea can become materialized when put into action with dedicated individuals.”
Looking Forward and Expanding Impact
The PAD chapter at Widener Law Commonwealth currently boasts around 40 active members, who regularly meet to plan events, discuss professional development, and foster a sense of community. The fraternity’s biggest annual event is the initiation ceremony for new members, an occasion that McFadden eagerly anticipates.
“This past year, we were finally able to have an in-person initiation ceremony with an after-party,” McFadden said. “It’s great to see people coming together to join a great organization and have a ceremony to make it feel official. I’m excited to host the event this year and welcome our new brothers and sisters!”
PAD’s efforts to create a supportive community extend beyond the campus. Through projects like the PAD professional closet and other initiatives, the fraternity aims to provide ongoing support and opportunities for its members, setting a strong foundation for future legal professionals.
Getting Involved with PAD
Students interested in joining Phi Alpha Delta can attend monthly meetings, participate in campus events, or connect with current members for more information. With its strong focus on leadership, service, and community, PAD continues to enrich the student experience and prepare law students for successful careers at Widener Law Commonwealth.
