Susan Yohe PLDIC Scholarship: 2025-2026 Recipients

University of Pittsburgh School of Law recipient: Nada Abdalla

Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up, where did you go to college?
My name is Nada Abdalla, and I grew up in Reisterstown, Maryland. I graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science, Law, and Policy, with concentrations in Biology, Chemistry, Criminal Justice, and Law and Policy. I created this major through the Individual Studies Program at UMD, combining my interests in science and law. After developing a detailed proposal and presenting it to a faculty board for approval, I completed a thesis titled “Safeguarding DNA Confidentiality in Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFE): Addressing the DNA Index System and Confidentiality of DNA Collected from Rape Victims.”

At UMD, I participated in the Federal Fellows Program, focusing on Homeland and National Security, and the Justice and Legal Thought Scholars Program. I worked as a Team Supervisor for UMD’s Division of Information Technology, and I currently serve as a general assistant at the Judge Alexander Williams, Jr. Center for Education, Justice, and Ethics, where I assist with research, support the center’s mission, and conduct archival work for the Maryland State Archives.

Why did you decide to go to law school?
I realized law school was the right path for me back in high school. I was part of my school’s mock trial team and loved every minute of it. At the same time, I was also enrolled in our four-year biomedical science program, and I loved that too. Rather than choosing between these interests, I realized I could explore science through the lens of the law. While I’m still open to other options, I’m particularly interested in Intellectual Property, Biotechnology Law, and Medical Malpractice.

What attracted you to Pittsburgh?
I first discovered Pitt during a law school fair, where the representative’s genuine enthusiasm for the University of Pittsburgh made a lasting impression. After I did my own deepdive, I was drawn to Pitt Law’s Center for Bioethics and Health Law and the strong course offerings in intellectual property. Pittsburgh’s beauty is also undeniable, though as
a Baltimore Ravens fan, I’ll be entering Steeler Nation cautiously—and perhaps wearing more purple than usual!

What are you most excited about doing in law school? In Pittsburgh?
I’m thrilled to be pursuing a legal education and eager to apply classroom knowledge to real-world experiences through summer associate positions, clinics, and hands-on opportunities. I’m also excited about the chance to get involved in mock trial, moot court, journals, and other student-led organizations. I look forward to building connections and growing with faculty, classmates, and the broader Pitt Law community.

The legal profession has historically had challenges with diversity, what are 2-3 things you wish law schools and legal employers would do better?
I wish there were more intentional efforts to open doors for students from underprivileged communities. I’ve worked with and mentored younger students in areas that are often overlooked, and I’ve seen firsthand how a lack of resources, connections, and guidance can make pursuing a career in law feel out of reach. In contrast, students from more privileged communities often have access to all of these—and more—which only widens the gap. As a first-generation student, I also wish for a greater understanding of our unique challenges. Increasing mentorship and inclusivity would make a meaningful difference for those who enter the profession without established networks.

Who are your legal heroes?
Judge Judy was someone who I watched a lot growing up– I admired her confidence and directness in the courtroom. Thurgood Marshall is also inspiring through his revolutionary work dismantling segregation and challenging Jim Crow laws, using law as an instrument for positive change. Another one of my heroes is Ruth Bader Ginsburg– her strategic approach to gender equality cases, powerful dissenting opinions, and lifelong commitment to justice demonstrate how persistence and thoughtful advocacy can create meaningful, lasting change.

Who is your favorite fictional lawyer?
My favorites (obviously) have to be Elle Woods and Harvey Specter! Elle showed me that you don’t need to sacrifice who you are to succeed in a space that often expects you to conform. She proved how far hard work, determination, and drive can take you. On the other hand, Harvey is strategic and unafraid to take on any challenge. He stands up for the people he cares about and never settles for less than what he knows he’s capable of. In law school, I hope to balance Harvey’s sharpness with Elle’s dedication— approaching challenges strategically while staying true to my values.

Do you have anything else you want the Pittsburgh legal community to know about you?
I’m excited to begin law school and grateful for my support system. My friends, mentors, and family– with a special shout-out to my dad, sister, and mom– are why I’ve gotten through the hard times and have continued to push myself to be better. I’m particularly grateful to be in the position I am today, and this is only the beginning! Thank you to the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition for selecting me as a Susan Yohe Scholar. I am open to discussing potential opportunities, please feel free to contact me.

Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University recipient: Keanna Yoder

Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up, where did you go to college?
I had a somewhat mobile upbringing, having been born and raised on an Army base in Colorado (Fort Carson). During my father’s deployment, my mother, sister, and I lived in Mexico for a period. As my mother is originally from Mexico, this time allowed us to connect with her extended family while my father was away. Following my father’s honorable discharge from active duty, we settled in Pittsburgh. After I graduated from North Allegheny High School, I pursued my undergraduate degree at the University of Dayton.

Why did you decide to go to law school?
I have wanted to go to law school since I was a little girl. Residing near Pittsburgh, I always knew I wanted to stay. My love for this city and my passions are unconditional. This past summer, I interned at the City-County Building and Allegheny County Courthouse. My initial internship at the magistrate elevated me to numerous judges between the two courthouses. Only having experience at the magistrate, I was passed into a much larger and faster territory that forced me into defining moments. Quickly, I became infatuated with the dynamic of not only the courthouses but Grant Street as well. Then my infatuation expanded, to the accessibility of what the nearby streets had to offer. Specifically, Duquesne Kline. My beyond-belief dream became to go to law school up the hill and return to work at the courthouses I interned for. I took so much pleasure in my internship that I continued to work beyond my necessary two hundred hours. My choice of interning beyond what was asked of me, with no other benefits besides experience, became clear this is exactly where I want to be, and what I want to do.

What attracted you to Pittsburgh?
I grew up in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, then moved to Ohio for my undergraduate studies. As much as I enjoyed living in a new state for four years, it deepened my appreciation for Pittsburgh. I knew I wanted to come back to Pittsburgh because of its strong sense of community. I love spending time downtown, whether it’s for recreational or professional pursuits.

What are you most excited about doing in law school? In Pittsburgh?
I am excited to explore specialized areas of law. Law school offers the flexibility to discover different interests, which is exciting. Additionally, Duquesne Kline’s School of Law values of welfare, ethics, and community are everything I am. Duquesne Kline’s values of leadership, service, and justice are everything I strive to be.

The legal profession has historically had challenges with diversity, what are 2-3 things you wish law schools and legal employers would do better?
Law schools and legal employers should focus on the environments they create. Fostering environments that support diversity at every level need to be embedded in the culture of schools and employers. To create lasting change, efforts can not be surface-level. Additionally, legal employers need to ensure that their leadership structures are reflective of the diversity of the broader legal community. Mentorship, sponsorship, and training for diverse employees should be prioritized to ensure equal access to opportunities for career growth.

Who are your legal heroes?
While I do not have a singular legal hero, I have been fortunate to have had several exceptional mentors who have profoundly impacted my growth and development. The Honorable Matthew J. Brungo, for example, provided invaluable guidance and constructive feedback throughout my journey. In addition to his role as a magistrate judge, he dedicated significant time to nurturing my knowledge and expanding my legal network by introducing me to other professionals. Judge Brungo also connected me with another outstanding mentor, Judge Daniel D. Regan of the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. Judge Regan graciously welcomed me to collaborate with him and his law clerks, offering me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the civil division. Beyond these two mentors, the legal community in Pittsburgh has been incredibly supportive, kind, and welcoming to me. I believe that anyone who has contributed to my legal career through guidance or knowledge plays a vital role, and I consider them heroes in their own right.

Who is your favorite fictional lawyer?
Jack McCoy from Law & Order! I admire his ability to adapt his strategies based on each case.

Do you have anything else you want the Pittsburgh legal community to know about you?
Thank you to the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition for selecting me as a Susan Yohe Scholar. I am honored to be a recipient and excited to meet all of you. With how amazing the Pittsburgh legal community has been to me, I am ecstatic to give back to the community that raised me.