Why I Love Supporting Milton and Catherine Hershey’s Mission Through Law

When people ask me why I love working at Milton Hershey School, the answer is simple: purpose. Every day, I have the opportunity to use my skills in service of a mission that truly changes lives.

My interest in the legal profession began early. As a child, my family once needed an attorney. What left the greatest impression on me wasn’t the legal process itself, but the reassurance that someone was advocating on our behalf. I understood even then that an attorney’s role goes beyond technical expertise—it’s about trust, responsibility, and service.

That belief has guided my career ever since. I take my job seriously, not just because my profession demands it but also, I know MHS students could be looking at the example I set in the same way I looked at that attorney who influenced me.

I spent much of my professional life in public service, holding leadership roles within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania across several agencies. In government, the client is the public, and the work demands integrity, accountability, and a focus on the greater good. That mindset continues to shape how I approach my role today.

Joining Milton Hershey School felt like a natural extension of that service‑oriented path. I grew up in the Hershey area aware of the school’s impact, but working here brings the MHS mission into focus in a much deeper way. This is an institution founded on the belief that every child deserves a safe home, an exceptional education, and the opportunity to thrive—regardless of their circumstances.

As Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel, I oversee a broad range of responsibilities including governance, compliance, risk management, and child protection. The President of MHS is my client but all 2,200 of our students is our focus. While much of that work happens behind the scenes, every decision ultimately connects back to students. Our job is to ensure the school can carry out its mission with integrity, care, and long‑term sustainability.

I also value the opportunities I’ve had to engage directly with students through mentoring and relationship‑building programs. Participating in initiatives like Project Fellowship and the Mentoring Our Leaders’ Development (M.O.L.D) program helps ground my work in the lived experiences of the students we serve. Those relationships are a powerful reminder that the mission is not abstract—it’s personal.

President Pete Gurt ’85, inspires me with his passion for the mission. Collaborating with President Gurt and other colleagues who are deeply committed to the well-being of our students is an honor. Every day, I’m reminded why our work matters.

Ultimately, what I love most about working at MHS is the alignment between my professional values and the institution’s purpose. This is not just a place where I practice law—it’s a place where service, compassion, and opportunity come together in a powerful way. Being trusted with the protection and advancement of our mission is something I take seriously every day.

Andrew Clark Named 2026 CPBJ Leaders in Law Honoree

Andrew Clark has been named a 2026 Central Penn Business Journal Leaders in Law honoree in the In‑House Counsel category.

The Leaders in Law Awards recognize legal professionals across Central Pennsylvania who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional achievement, and service within the legal field. Honorees are selected for their ability to guide organizations through complex challenges while making a positive impact on their communities.

Clark was recognized for his leadership of all legal matters at MHS since he assumed his position in 2018. His work plays a critical role in protecting the integrity, sustainability, and mission focus of the institution—providing a cost‑free, world‑class education to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Clark was formally recognized at the 2026 Leaders in Law Awards celebration on May 12. He was also featured in a special section of the May 2026 issue of Central Penn Business Journal.

About the Author

Andrew Clark

Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel

Andrew Clark serves as Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel at Milton Hershey School, where he advises executive leadership on legal matters, oversees litigation, and supports risk management and compliance programs. He played a key role in establishing Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning as a subsidiary of MHS and serves on its Board as director and secretary. Prior to joining MHS, Clark held senior legal positions with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and The Vartan Group. He holds a Juris Doctor, master’s degree, and bachelor’s degree in political science from The Catholic University of America.