News

As the spring 2025 semester came to a close, Widener University Commonwealth Law School took time to celebrate three standout members of its community whose dedication, scholarship, and service left a lasting mark. Each award reflects the law school’s commitment to recognizing those who go above and beyond in shaping legal education and supporting student success.

Assistant Professor F. Lee Francis received the 2025 Douglas E. Ray Excellence in Faculty Scholarship Award for his article, “The Addiction Restriction: Addiction and the Right to Bear Arms,” which challenges longstanding assumptions about addiction and constitutional rights. The award, one of the law school’s highest academic honors, is given by the dean based on faculty recommendations and recognizes scholarship that advances the development of the law.

Dean andré douglas pond cummings, who presented the award, praised Francis as “an up-and-coming scholar” whose writing is both timely and impactful. “In his young career, he has become a prolific publisher,” cummings said. “He writes in cutting-edge areas of Second Amendment law, and his work is celebrated for both the quality and quantity he’s been able to produce.”

“I was genuinely caught off guard,” said Francis. “I thought I was just being pulled aside for a quick logistical note before the ceremony, so when the dean started reading the citation, it took a second to register. It was a quiet moment, but it meant a lot. I felt grateful to be part of a community that values both teaching and scholarship.”

In his article, Francis critiques the use of addiction as an automatic disqualifier for Second Amendment protections. “What really pushed me to write,” he said, “was seeing how casually the term ‘unlawful user’ gets applied—without clear standards or process, and with major constitutional consequences. I wanted to challenge the idea that addiction automatically makes someone dangerous or unworthy of rights.”

Francis hopes his work inspires deeper reflection on how legal rights are defined and enforced. “Rights aren’t just theoretical; they shape people’s futures,” he said. “If we’re going to restrict them, we should be honest about the reasons and rigorous about the justifications.”

Reflecting on his time at Widener Law Commonwealth, Francis credited the community with making his work possible. “It’s the people, without a doubt,” he said. “From day one, colleagues have gone out of their way to be generous with their time and advice, and students have been curious, engaged, and willing to challenge me—in the best way.”

Also honored at the ceremony was Robert “Rob” Brown, Client eXperience Specialist, who received the 2025 Employee Appreciation Award for his exceptional service and steady support of students, faculty, and staff.

Since joining the law school in October 2023, Brown has earned a reputation for being “smart, helpful, and always available to assist anyone at any time.” Known for his technical expertise and can-do attitude, Brown is often the first call when something goes wrong—especially during high-stress moments like finals.

“Just being able to jump in, get students back on track, and watch that look of pure relief hit their face—it reminds me I’m not just fixing computers; I’m helping people succeed in a really high-pressure moment,” Brown said.

cummings called Brown “the most can-do, pleasant, service-oriented staff member I’ve encountered in a long time.” He added, “Every single time I’ve ever needed something, Rob has made it happen. I don’t think he knows the word ‘no.’”

Nomination comments described Brown as a “true asset to the Widener Law Commonwealth community,” praising his positive, creative approach to problem-solving and his dedication to going above and beyond. The Employee Appreciation Award is open to nominations from the law school community and recognizes staff who exemplify the school’s mission of personal, practical, and professional education.

Additionally, the late Professor Juliet Moringiello was posthumously honored with the 2025 Outstanding Faculty Award, which is chosen each year by a vote of the graduating class to recognize a faculty member who has had a profound impact on their education and law school experience.

Moringiello’s legacy of teaching excellence, mentorship, and devotion to students earned her this heartfelt tribute from the Class of 2025. “Juliet shaped generations of lawyers through her scholarship, her wisdom, and her kindness,” cummings said. “This award is a testament to the gratitude and respect her students continue to hold for her, and her impact on our community will be felt for many years to come.”

“These awards speak volumes about the culture of excellence and care at Widener Law Commonwealth,” said cummings. “Our faculty and staff are among the best in the United States, and I do not believe that is hyperbole. They are incredible scholars and professionals who are fully committed to student success.”