Legacy of Law: Widener Law Commonwealth Graduates Follow in Family Footsteps
For some members of Widener University Commonwealth Law School’s class of 2025, commencement marks more than the end of law school—it’s a powerful continuation of a family legacy. These graduates are following in the footsteps of parents and relatives, deepening connections through shared professors, campus traditions, and the hard-earned triumph of earning a law degree.
That connection also means each graduate will have a special moment with their loved one on the commencement stage during the ceremony at The Forum in the Capitol Complex. Family members of Widener Law Commonwealth legacy graduates are able to offer their congratulations right as the graduates receive their degrees.
This year’s class of legacy graduates includes:
Raquel Perez: A Full-Circle Journey
For Raquel Perez, graduating with her mother, Kathryn Waters, '95, on the stage represents a meaningful connection to her past. “Graduating from the same law school as my mom means I’ve received a solid foundation in law,” Perez said. “It’s amazing to think that 30 years later, it’s a full-circle moment.”
Kathryn Waters, now assistant counsel for the Department of Transportation’s General Law Division, previously served as a deputy district attorney in Dauphin County and was among the early Black prosecutors in the office. “I was overjoyed and proud when I found out Raquel chose the same law school,” Waters shared. “Watching her grow in the legal community here is incredibly rewarding.”
Raquel credits her mother's guidance throughout law school. “Her advice on case briefing and staying focused was invaluable,” she said. “We’ve become even closer and now approach legal topics in similar ways.”
Waters added, “Raquel’s ability to manage a heavy workload and approach legal thinking thoughtfully reminded me of my own journey. I would love to see this legacy continue with future generations.”
Sophie Miller: A Cousin’s Influence
For Sophie Miller, graduation means more than just receiving a diploma—it’s about honoring her family’s connection to Widener Law. Her cousin, a proud alumnus, played a pivotal role in her decision to attend. “When I was younger, I didn’t truly grasp what law school was about. But watching my cousin graduate helped me see the magnitude of the journey,” Miller reflected.
Her cousin’s guidance didn’t end there. “He’s always been a supportive sounding board,” she said. “We’ve shared stories about professors and favorite moments from campus, but the deeper connection we’ve built throughout this experience is what I value most.”
As Miller prepares for graduation, she takes pride in her personal and professional growth. “At times, law school felt like both a sprint and a marathon,” she said. “I’ve met incredible people here, and I’m grateful for their support.”Looking ahead, Miller plans to give back. “I would love to contribute to Widener in meaningful ways and encourage others, especially family, to consider law school,” she said.
Morgan Engler: A Mother’s Pride
Morgan Engler’s graduation will be a moment of shared pride with her mother, Lenann Engler, a fellow Widener graduate. “It means so much to me that my mom will be there with me as I get my diploma,” Morgan said. “To graduate from Widener Law together is incredibly special.”
Her mother’s success and experience at Widener were major factors in Morgan’s decision to attend. “Seeing what my mom accomplished after law school showed me Widener’s potential to equip me for success,” she said.
Through her law school journey, Morgan found constant encouragement in her mother’s advice. “She’s always reminded me to keep going and do my best, even when times got tough,” Morgan said.
Morgan also looks forward to joining her father’s law practice after graduation. “It’s exciting to share this moment with both my parents, who have inspired me so much,” she said.
Lenann, a senior counsel for PSERS, expressed her pride: “It’s incredibly meaningful to see Morgan follow in my footsteps. Her journey has reaffirmed our family’s commitment to the legal profession.”
Riley Stoltenberg: Following in her Father’s Footsteps
For Riley Stoltenberg, graduating from Widener Law Commonwealth alongside her father, Eric Stoltenberg, '95, is a deeply meaningful experience. “I’ve always admired my dad, and to bond over our shared law school experience means the world to me,” Riley said.
Eric Stoltenberg, who had a positive experience at Widener, encouraged his daughter to pursue law there. “I knew Riley would thrive at Widener, just as I did,” he said. “It’s been amazing to watch her journey unfold.”
The two share a similar law school experience, including participating in the Law Review. “Dad spoke about how it improved his legal writing, and I was fortunate enough to experience the same,” Riley said.
Their bond grew even stronger when Riley interned at her father’s law firm. “It was special to see my dad in his element,” she said. “I hope to be the kind of advocate he is for his clients.”
Reflecting on her journey, Riley is proud of what she’s accomplished. “I hope I’ve made my parents proud,” she said.
Grace Mills: Inspired by a Father's Journey
Grace Mills didn’t have to look far for inspiration to pursue law—she grew up watching her father, Robert T. Mills, build a solo practice after graduating from Widener Law Commonwealth in 2012. “I am thrilled to be graduating from the same law school as my dad,” Grace said. “Getting to see his work as an attorney is what made me know that I wanted to do the same.”
Robert, a retired Navy veteran who came to law as a third career, practiced what he called “door law” before focusing on civil contracts. He recalls being hesitant about Grace’s decision at first. “I initially wanted her to be a doctor,” he said with a smile. “But she insisted—and I’m proud she did.”
Seeing Grace thrive in law school brought Robert a deep sense of pride. “As a law school student who never received an ‘A’ but passed the bar on the first try, I was amazed at how Grace not only worked hard but also took full advantage of the opportunities Widener offers,” he said. “She’s been able to focus on her education and achieve everything she set out to accomplish.”
The two even shared a professor—both had Professor Meadows for Contracts. “One piece of advice I was given was to work hard,” Grace added, “and that’s something I’ve always tried to follow.”
When Robert first learned he would be part of Grace’s legacy moment at commencement, he admitted, “I was choked with emotion. Knowing she watched me go through it, and now seeing her accomplish this her way, is one of the best moments of my life.”
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