McNees elevates five attorneys to membership
August 28, 2025
Press Releases
HARRISBURG, Pa. (Aug. 28, 2025) — McNees Wallace & Nurick today announced that five of its attorneys have been elected to membership, effective Jan. 1, 2026. The newly elected members are Ryan Gonder, Ashley Nichols Weber, Alison T. Smith, Errin T. McCaulley Jr., and Benjamin Ward.
Membership at McNees signifies full inclusion in the firm’s leadership ranks, recognizing attorneys who exemplify excellence, dedication and client-focused service.
“We are proud to welcome this talented group of attorneys to our membership ranks,” said Brian Jackson, the firm’s chair. “Their dedication to clients, leadership within the firm, and commitment to excellence set a high standard for all of us. Each new member strengthens our team and helps ensure McNees continues to grow as a firm that values talent, collaboration and results.”
The five-member class spans multiple offices and practice areas, reflecting McNees’ commitment to collaboration, thoughtful service and client-focused solutions. These attorneys have distinguished themselves through outstanding client work, leadership within the firm and active service to their communities.
Profiles of the newly elected members:
- Ryan Gonder (Harrisburg, Pa.) practices in the Public Finance & Government Services, State and Local Tax, and Education law groups. He advises municipal governments and school districts on tax assessment appeals, bond issues and compliance matters. Ryan brings experience as a Department of the Army civilian supporting foreign military sales, providing him with a unique perspective on government finance and operations. Within the firm, he serves on internal committees focused on process improvement and professional development.
- Ashley Nichols Weber (Lancaster, Pa.) works in the Real Estate and Construction law groups in Lancaster. She advises contractors, owners, and suppliers on contract drafting, project risk management, and dispute resolution. Ashley has experience with both public and private construction projects and also provides guidance to family-owned businesses on corporate governance and real estate matters.
- Alison T. Smith (Pittsburgh, Pa.) practices in the Fiduciary Liability and Litigation, Trusts & Estates, and Nonprofit law groups. She advises fiduciaries, nonprofits, and corporate clients on trust administration, compliance, and charitable matters. Alison previously served as Chief Counsel at PNC Bank, supporting the bank’s asset management group, and she actively mentors junior attorneys within the firm.
- Errin T. McCaulley Jr. (Harrisburg, Pa.) practices in the Energy and Environmental Law Group. He counsels clients on environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution, and assists with complex transactions and real estate development projects. Errin helps clients navigate local, state, and federal environmental regulations while minimizing risk. He also participates in the firm’s pro bono initiatives related to community environmental matters.
- Benjamin Ward (Radnor, Pa.) practices in the Corporate & Tax, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Automotive Dealership law groups. He assists clients with corporate transactions, due diligence, and negotiations, including buy-side and sell-side mergers. Ben also co-chairs McNees’ Legal Equity Advancement Program (LEAP), an initiative that provides legal support to underrepresented businesses.
These promotions highlight McNees’ structured pathway to membership, where outstanding attorneys are recognized for their leadership, professional excellence and dedication to clients. The firm continues to cultivate a culture that empowers talented professionals and reflects the diversity and breadth of its practice areas.
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McNees is a multidisciplinary law firm founded in 1935 with more than 150 attorneys representing businesses, associations, institutions, municipalities and individuals. The firm serves clients worldwide from offices in Harrisburg, Lancaster, Pittsburgh, Radnor, State College and York, Pa.; Columbus, Ohio; Frederick and Towson, Md.; and Washington, D.C. McNees is a member of the ALFA International Global Legal Network.
