HARRISBURG, Pa., March 26, 2025 — Kathleen Duffy Bruder, shareholder at Saxton & Stump and chair of the firm’s Regulatory and Government Affairs Group, has been named to City & State PA’s prestigious “Above & Beyond: Women” list for 2025. City & State PA is a leading news organization dedicated to covering Pennsylvania’s state and local government, politics, and public policy. The award recognizes influential and innovative women in Pennsylvania who demonstrate exceptional leadership and contribute significantly to their field and society.
Bruder, a seasoned attorney and lobbyist with over 30 years of experience in government and private practice, is a trusted advisor on legislative, policy and public funding. She is a fixture at Pennsylvania’s Capitol, where she plays a critical role in shaping policy and advising public and private sector clients.
“It is an honor to be recognized alongside such remarkable women and leaders who make an impact in Pennsylvania every day,” Bruder said. “This recognition is possible because I work with the best team around, and our collective ability to help clients navigate government and influence good policy and legislation. Having the opportunity to work in this industry and do great work has always been deeply rewarding. I am grateful to my colleagues at Saxton & Stump and leaders with whom I worked in state government for their support through the years and for this nomination.”
A key figure in state politics, Bruder was selected by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Lt. Gov. Austin Davis to serve on their transition team from 2022 to 2023, ensuring a seamless transfer of leadership. She also served as deputy chief of staff for former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett, where she was a senior adviser to the governor and responsible for multiple agencies, including PennDOT and DCED. Bruder also served as the governor’s representative on various state and bi-state authorities, boards and commissions as well as Team PA. Recently, she served for six years on the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania’s Civil Procedural Rules Committee, chairing the committee from 2022 to 2023.
Bruder’s leadership has received widespread recognition. In 2023, the Central Penn Business Journal named her to its “Women of Influence” list and Lobbyist Power List. In 2022, City & State PA named Bruder to its “Top 50 Pennsylvania Lobbyists” list. Beyond her legal and lobbying work, Bruder is dedicated to community service. She is treasurer/secretary and board member for the Harrisburg-based Joshua Group, a nonprofit supporting at-risk youth, and serves as a mentor for high school students navigating their futures.
“Kathy is a respected and true leader in government affairs across the Commonwealth and beyond,” said James W. Saxton, CEO of Saxton & Stump. “Her expertise is invaluable to our firm and the clients she advises. We are proud to see her recognized for her continued outstanding contributions.”
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With 200 professionals, which will soon include 135 attorneys as of April 1, 2025, Saxton & Stump’s innovative model continues to attract highly talented and experienced attorneys, driving the growth of the law firm and its affiliate companies nationwide.
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