The Parkland Education Foundation continued its Alumni Spotlight series on Aug. 21, with an evening honoring Tom Reilly, a 1977 graduate of Parkland High School who has built a successful career as both an attorney at Gross McGinley Law Firm and as a business owner.

The event was hosted at Randall’s Restaurant, which Reilly co-owns.

Reilly shared personal stories from his time at Parkland, where he arrived as a shy sophomore and found his footing through extracurricular activities like the swim team and Key Club.

“Getting involved changed everything for me,” he told the crowd, crediting those early experiences with helping him develop leadership skills that would later shape his career.

After graduating from Bloomsburg University with a degree in accounting, Reilly went on to earn his law degree, eventually discovering his niche in business and banking law.

“Being a lawyer doesn’t define who I am – it defines what I do,” he said, emphasizing his untraditional path and entrepreneurial ventures.

Perhaps most surprising was Reilly’s reflection on his lifelong passion for music.

His impromptu DJ debut at a high school dance sparked a side career that carried him through law school and beyond.

“Every significant part of my life connects back to being a DJ,” he noted, explaining how those connections led not only to friendships but also to professional opportunities – including the partnerships that helped establish Randall’s Restaurant.

Throughout the evening, Reilly also shared lessons for today’s students.

“Be yourself,” he advised. “Don’t try to fit into someone else’s mold. Make your own.”

The Alumni Spotlight Series provides a chance for the Parkland community to celebrate the achievements of its graduates while offering inspiration to current students and residents alike.

The next Spotlight event is scheduled 5-6:30 p.m. Nov. 6 featuring the Jaindl family.

The location is to be determined.

The event is open to all – alumni and community members are welcome to attend.