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Widener University Commonwealth Law School celebrated its 35th anniversary recently with a sold-out gala at the Hilton Harrisburg that brought together more than 340 alumni, faculty, students, and friends for an evening of reflection, gratitude, and pride in how far the institution has come.

In a defining moment of the celebration, alumnus Douglas M. Wolfberg ’96, joined by his wife Tina, announced a $250,000 gift, the largest in Widener Law Commonwealth's history, to name the school's courtroom as the Douglas M. Wolfberg Courtroom.

Wolfberg, founding partner of Page, Wolfberg & Wirth, one of the nation’s leading emergency medical services law firms, shared a moving reflection titled “Giving Back: Zeroes & Legacies.” He spoke of gratitude, legacy, and the ripple effect of generosity that can change the course of students’ lives.

“Our lives don’t become legacies until after we’ve checked out,” he said. “We all get a legacy, the question is what we’ll do with it. Gifts of any size help students who will go on to become tomorrow’s lawyers, judges, advocates, and leaders. That ripple effect, that’s the real legacy.”

Wolfberg also credited his wife Tina, as the driving force behind the gift. “If I had my way, it would be called the Douglas and Christina M. Wolfberg Courtroom,” he said with a smile. “But this is our gift, together.”

Dean andré douglas pond cummings called the Wolfbergs’ generosity “a transformational moment in the law school’s history.”

“This extraordinary gift will strengthen our ability to unlock greatness in every student who walks through our doors,” cummings said. “We are a school of access. We find and develop talent in places no one else looks, and we’ve been doing it for 35 years.”

From the first class of 164 graduates in 1992 to a thriving alumni network of more than 4,200 today, the gala celebrated Widener Law Commonwealth’s legacy of providing personal, practical, and professional legal education in the heart of Pennsylvania’s capital.

The evening opened with remarks from Jonathan Koltash ’07, chair of the Dean’s Advisory Council, who welcomed guests and reflected on his journey from aspiring law student to deputy general counsel for the Pennsylvania Governor’s Office of General Counsel. Koltash credited Widener Law Commonwealth for giving him the chance that launched his career.

“As far back as I can remember, being a lawyer was all I ever wanted to do,” Koltash said. “There were a lot of rejections along the way, twenty-eight to be exact, but Widener Law Commonwealth gave me my shot. This place gave me mentors, friends, and an incredible career. For that, I’m eternally grateful.”

He also recognized the many judges and alumni in attendance, noting how they “represent the impact, pride, and hard work that define this institution.”

President Stacey Robertson followed with remarks celebrating the law school’s enduring mission and impact. “Widener Law Commonwealth is an absolutely remarkable place with dedicated faculty, talented students, and incredible alumni,” Robertson said. “Each day our faculty bring passion and creativity to the classroom, and our students work tirelessly to advance justice and democracy.”

She also praised the school’s hallmark programs and centers that continue to expand its reach and relevance.

“Commonwealth has built standout programs such as the Law & Government Institute, the Center for Equity and Justice, the Environmental Law and Sustainability Center, and the Business Advising Program,” Robertson said. “These programs are preparing students to lead in law, policy, and public service in ways that strengthen our communities and advance justice.”

cummings echoed that message, noting that these centers represent the best of the school’s mission in action.“They give our students hands-on experience in shaping policy, advising small businesses, advancing environmental sustainability, and pursuing equity and justice for all,” he said. 

He also reflected on the institution’s journey from its early days in 1989, when classes were held amid construction dust and hanging wires, to a thriving, mission-driven school producing leaders across every area of law. He highlighted the school’s rising academic success, noting this year’s 77.92 percent Pennsylvania bar passage rate, up from 54 percent the year prior.

“Our graduates serve as judges, legislators, firm partners, and public servants across the commonwealth and the nation,” he said. “From federal courts to boardrooms, from the Attorney General’s Office to private practice, they are shaping the world for the better.”

The celebration spotlighted voices from across generations, as alumni and students shared reflections that bridged the law school’s pioneering past with its bold, evolving future.

• Susan Schwab ’92, U.S. magistrate judge for the middle district of Pennsylvania and a member of the inaugural class, reflected on the courage of those who took a chance on a brand-new school. “We were pioneers,” she said. “We walked through construction dust and dirt to a building still being finished, believing this place could create lawyers who were not only skilled advocates but also agents of justice and change.”
• George Morrison ’06, shareholder at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, spoke to the power of mentorship. “We all need to pay it forward,” he said. “Reach out to a student, be a mentor, give them that chance to get the upper edge on the competition.”
• Miss-Kye Gallon ’25, who shared her inspiring story of perseverance from Harlem to Harrisburg, drew a standing ovation. “Sometimes all you need is one door to open,” she said. “For me, that door was Widener. It gave me the space to grow, to lead, and to believe in my future again.” Gallon now serves as an assistant district attorney in New York.

The gala also honored the far-reaching influence of Widener Law Commonwealth alumni in corporate and firm leadership across the nation. Among those recognized for their impact were Ryan Cassidy ’96, Kristi Thomas ’07, Michael Aiello ’94, Tara Schellhorn ’07, and George Kostolampros ’99, who exemplify the school’s commitment to excellence and ethical practice in the private sector.

“These alumni show that success at the highest levels of corporate law is rooted in the same values that define us: integrity, access, and service,” cummings said. “They remind our students that Widener lawyers lead wherever they go.”

As the celebration drew to a close, cummings reflected on the school’s 35-year journey and the spirit of the evening.

“From the dust and rubble of our beginnings to the vibrant community we are today, this law school continues to build something extraordinary,” he said. “We are unlocking greatness, changing lives, and preparing the next generation of lawyers to serve. Let’s build a bold future together.”