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Generations of clients
From the beginning, McNees has grown alongside its clients. Our story is intertwined with theirs, marked by shared challenges, opportunities, and successes. Each partnership reflects more than legal representation. It is a collaboration built on trust and a commitment to moving forward together.
Since 1937, when Milton Hershey first walked into our office, we have been honored to work with organizations that have shaped industries, communities, and institutions across Pennsylvania and beyond. Some partnerships span decades, others are more recent, but all reflect the same principle: McNees is committed to our clients’ success.
The three client stories below are examples of the many client partnerships that have shaped McNees’ history. Each one is a reminder that our success has always been measured in the successes of those we help.
Where responsiveness met opportunity
Milton Hershey: As the story goes, Milton Hershey once asked for the names of the most respected firms in Harrisburg and was given a short list. At the first firm he visited, he was asked to wait too long in the reception area. Deciding that was enough, he walked into the office of McNees, Hollinger & Nurick.
When he introduced himself, the receptionist went straight to find Sterling McNees, who immediately came out to greet him and spent as long as needed listening to Hershey. That first meeting set the tone for a relationship built on responsiveness, respect, and personal attention. What began with a single conversation grew into a partnership that lasted for decades and helped shape the way McNees approaches client service to this day.
Trust and collaboration in action
Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union: McNees has partnered with Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union (PSECU) for more than three decades, beginning with labor and employment matters in the early 1990s and expanding into nearly every area of our practice. Over the years, our attorneys have advised on significant litigation, corporate governance, financial services, and business needs that have supported PSECU’s growth into Pennsylvania’s largest credit union.
A central figure in this relationship has been Helen Gemmill, who has worked with PSECU since the late 1990s and even served as secondment general counsel during a leadership transition. Her role reflects the trust and collaboration that define our history with PSECU. Today, with a strong in-house legal team, PSECU continues to call on McNees for guidance across a wide range of matters.
“What we value about McNees is how well they know our organization. They understand our unique challenges and give us clear, practical advice when we need it most,” said Francis Pudner, Chief Risk Officer and General Counsel.
Partnering in innovation since day one
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology: McNees has advised Harrisburg University (HU) since its founding in 2001. Early work included corporate formation, bond financing, and construction counsel for HU’s first downtown campus. Attorneys Diane Tokarsky and Donna Kreiser guided the University through these projects, and their work laid the foundation for a relationship that has grown with HU’s expansion.
From the UPMC Health Sciences Tower to ongoing support in public finance, construction, education, employment, and corporate matters, McNees continues to advise HU on its daily needs. Today, attorney Nicole Stezar Kaylor works closely with HU and helps guide the firm’s ongoing support for the University.
“McNees has been with Harrisburg University since the very beginning. They understand our mission, stand with us through every challenge, and provide the guidance we need to keep growing and serving our students.” — Ryan Riley, Chief Strategy Officer & Vice President of Partnerships and External Relations.
Share your #McNees story
Whether you’re a current McNees’er, former colleague, client, or friend of the firm, we’d love to hear from you. Share your favorite McNees memory, photo, or milestone on LinkedIn or Facebook using the hashtag #McNees as we celebrate 90 years together.
Explore the McNees history book
Dive into the full story in our commemorative history book, highlighting key moments from our founding in 1935.
