Tara Smith ’25: Advancing Equity and Access in Legal Education

Tara Smith, a third-year law student at Widener University Commonwealth Law School, is committed to expanding equity and access in legal education through her work with the Center for Equity and Justice and the Pathway Program.

A graduate of the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a degree in international affairs and minors in political science and French, Smith has focused on advocacy and systemic change.

Her work with the Pathway Program, which provides LSAT preparation and law school readiness resources to underrepresented students, aligns with her goals.

“Tara’s leadership in the Pathway Program has been exceptional,” said Dean andré douglas pond cummings. “From organizing ‘Day at the Law School’ to mentoring students, she ensures the program runs smoothly. She recognizes talent and potential, advocating for students who dream of becoming lawyers.”

“When I learned about the Pathway Program, I knew I had to get involved,” Smith said. “Connecting students to LSAT prep and law school resources helps build real opportunities.”

Smith recalled a key moment during the program’s “Day at the Law School,” where a mock class led by cummings gave students their first taste of law school. “You could see the ‘aha’ moments as they connected the dots,” she said.

“By the end, they were excited about law school—it was great to see.”

Smith credits her aunt Stephanie Ellis-Smith and the team at Phīla Engaged Giving, the values-driven philanthropic advisory firm Ellis-Smith founded, for shaping her passion for social justice. “Because of my time with them, I know I’ll take my JD back into the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors,” she said.

Her legal education has also been shaped by faculty mentors. She praised Professor Mary Kate Kearney’s contracts class for building her confidence and Professor Randy Lee’s constitutional law lectures for offering a new perspective on legal principles.

cummings sees significant potential in Smith. “She is organized, a natural leader, and committed to justice,” he said. “I could see her running a nonprofit, leading a philanthropic initiative, or directing a civil rights organization. Whatever she chooses, she will make an impact.”

Smith remains focused on mobilizing resources and creating change. “There are so many issues that need advocacy,” she said. “I’m excited to see where I can make a difference.”

Through the Pathway Program and her legal studies, Smith is building a foundation for lasting impact.

“Programs like the Pathway Program do more than provide academic opportunities,” she said. “They help drive real growth in underrepresented communities. That’s the kind of work I want to do.”

Interview was conducted in Winter 2025.