Law and Government Institute Celebrates 25 Years at Evening at the Capitol with Awards Honoring Alumni and Students
Widener University Commonwealth Law School marked a significant milestone in its history on Wednesday evening, as it hosted the 25th anniversary celebration of its Law and Government Institute. The event, held in the rotunda of the Pennsylvania State Capitol, brought together alumni, students, faculty, and leaders in public service to reflect on the institute’s achievements and the enduring impact of its mission.
Honoring Excellence in Public Service
A central part of the evening was the presentation of the Excellence in Public Service Awards, honoring two outstanding alumni for their exceptional contributions to public service. Judge Susan Schwab ‘92 and Nick Matash ‘01 were recognized for their decades-long careers dedicated to justice, community, and the advancement of public service.
Schwab, who currently serves as a federal magistrate judge for the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, was lauded for her career across all three branches of government, her role as a lecturer at Widener, and her advocacy on women's health issues. She expressed how deeply meaningful a career in public service can be: “A career of public service is among the most rewarding and gratifying careers you can have. It enriches your legal career in ways you can’t imagine.”
Schwab also took time to thank her colleagues and family, acknowledging their role in supporting her journey: “I want to thank all my fellow state and federal public servants and my wonderful judicial colleagues and staff for helping me make my public service career a wonderful experience.”
Matash, the second honoree for outstanding dedication to, and impact in, public service, has spent his career in legal aid and now serves as managing attorney for the Lebanon and Harrisburg offices of MidPenn Legal Services. Known for his work helping clients secure pardons and expungements, as well as his commitment to providing hands-on learning opportunities for law students, Matash shared the source of his dedication: “People often ask why I chose legal services as a career, but I think the more interesting question is why I’ve stayed for over 20 years. The answer lies in the remarkable people I’ve met—clients who show courage in seeking help, colleagues who shape my understanding of advocacy, and pro bono partners who ensure no client stands alone.”
Matash emphasized the collective nature of success in public service, concluding, “This award belongs not just to me, but to everyone who makes our work possible. Together, we move closer to the promise of equal justice under the law.”
Celebrating the Next Generation of Public Servants
As part of the event, the institute presented its inaugural Public Service Impact Awards to two deserving students, Julie Stenhouse and Benjamin McFadden, both of whom are committed to pursuing careers in public service. The $1,500 awards provide financial assistance to students in their pursuit of law careers that will serve the community.
Stenhouse, a fourth-year extended division student working toward dual specialized certificates offered by the institute in administrative/constitutional law and legislation, shared her personal journey that led her to law school. A mother of two young children, Stenhouse is currently interning at the Dauphin County district attorney’s office, where she has already accepted a position as a prosecutor after the bar exam. “This money will go toward tuition, books, and living costs for my family,” she explained, adding that a traumatic experience as a crime victim in her formative years inspired her desire to help others in similar situations. “The legal system couldn’t help me then, but that experience pushed me to become a prosecutor so I can help others, especially in cases with limited physical evidence.”
McFadden, a third-year regular division student also working toward the same two certificates, credited a pivotal internship with former state Sen. John Gordner for shaping his career aspirations. “Working with his chief of staff… showed me how a J.D. [degree] can open doors in public service and help you truly understand the legislative process,” he said. McFadden, who aspires to work in government law, expressed his gratitude for the opportunities provided by the Law and Government Institute, stating, “One day, I hope to join the people I meet here and represent my community.”
Reflecting on the Law and Government Institute’s Legacy
The event was the culmination of a year celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Law and Government Institute, which focuses on the complex intersection of legislation, regulation, public policy, and the law.
Dean andré douglas pond cummings closed the ceremony by urging students to take inspiration from the evening’s honorees. “Public service offers opportunities for growth and fulfillment unlike any other path,” he said. “This celebration is a testament to the power of public service and the incredible impact our students and alumni have on their communities. Let’s continue this journey together.”
