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Final assignment for grads: “Do more”

5/23/2016

Speakers addressing the 234 graduates who received degrees on Saturday, May 21 advised them to never stop working for good, now that they are armed with legal educations.

“Please use this awesome new tool you have to improve your lives, and the lives of those around you,” commencement speaker and Delaware Attorney General Matthew P. Denn, said.

Denn also went on to tell the graduates that, as he has grown to become a husband and father, he has come to appreciate the importance of making time for family. It is easy to let “just a little more legal research” erode time from things that can build memories. “In hindsight, setting aside time for my family has been one of the most important things I have done,” he said.


 

 

See more photos from the 2016 Delaware Law School Commencement

 

The commencement ceremony, held on the school lawn, also featured remarks by valedictorian Jennifer Buckley and graduate Brian Panella, who served as president of the Student Bar Association. Panella announced class gift plans for a refurbished student lounge.

Widener University President Dr. Julie E. Wollman told the graduates they have one final assignment: “Do more.”

“Challenge yourself, ask hard questions, continue using the same grit and determination you’ve already demonstrated,” she said. “Your legal education gave you the tools to be a game changer.”

Dean Rodney Smolla gave the outstanding faculty award – decided by a vote of the graduating class – to Associate Professor Leslie Johnson. It marked the seventh time she has received it. 

Smolla also closed the ceremony, with powerful words for the graduates. “Whatever your day job may be, remember that part of your calling is a commitment to the pursuit of justice,” he said. “And do not be satisfied until, in the words of scripture, justice shall roll down like waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.”

Eight graduates received their diplomas with relatives – who are Delaware Law School alumni – congratulating them during the ceremony. They included Andrew Brehm, Shannon Dalle Pazze, Ashley DiLiberto, Helene Episcopo, Taylor Fullman, Jessica Klavens, Shelly Krantz and Aaron Thieme.