The Widener Commonwealth Law Review, a legal publication of Widener University, has long been a platform for advancing legal scholarship. For students, membership provides an opportunity to hone legal skills, demonstrate initiative, and contribute to critical conversations in the legal field. Under the leadership of Editor-in-Chief Miranda Thompson ’25, the Law Review has upheld these values while embracing innovative approaches to timely and complex issues.
Thompson, a Penn State graduate with a degree in psychology, views her role as editor-in-chief as both a significant responsibility and a unique opportunity. “There is so much growth potential within the Law Review,” she shared. “We’ve worked together to represent new voices and new messages, spotlighting important voices on timely topics in creative ways.”
A pivotal moment for Thompson came while researching prosecutorial misconduct for her required comment. “What started as a writing assignment became something deeply personal,” she explained. “It changed the entire trajectory of my career aspirations and helped me find my personal niche.”
A highlight of Thompson’s tenure was the fall conference, “A Modern Examination of the Expansive Existence of Systemic Racism.” The event marked a significant milestone as the Law Review, for the first time, hosted two symposia within the same academic year.
“This year, we made a deliberate effort to expand the Law Review’s outreach,” Thompson explained. “By hosting two symposia, we were able to bring in some of the brightest minds to discuss two separate human rights issues. It wasn’t just about publishing prestigious articles—it was about providing space for students to engage in robust and uninhibited discussion.”
Thompson personally navigated the planning process, ensuring the event would resonate with the Widener Law Commonwealth community. “There were moments when the logistics felt overwhelming,” she admitted. “But sitting in room A180, surrounded by engaged students eager to discuss systemic racism at such a politically charged time, was incredibly fulfilling. It was a moment of unity that opened the floor to diverse perspectives.”
The Law Review’s mission evolves with each new editor-in-chief and administrative board. For the 2024-25 academic year, Thompson aimed to increase the publication’s outward-facing reputation by publishing on distinctive, timely topics and fostering dialogue within the Widener Law Commonwealth community.
Thompson attributes much of the Law Review’s success to the mentorship of Professor Mary Kate Kearney and former Assistant Professor Quinn Yeargain. “Their guidance has been instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges of leadership,” she said. “Together, they’ve supported me through difficult moments and helped the Law Review evolve immensely.”
For students considering joining, Thompson offers candid advice. “Law Review is hard work,” she said. “But the opportunity to learn how to work as a cohesive unit, refine writing and editing skills, and take constructive criticism with grace is invaluable. These are lessons that prepare you for the demands of a legal career in ways few other experiences can.”
As she prepares to graduate, Thompson hopes the foundations laid this year will inspire future boards. “The Law Review represents not only legal scholarship but also the values of our community,” she said. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited to see how it will grow in the years to come.”
Interview was conducted in Winter 2025.
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