An inspiring welcome
Welcoming ceremonies for the English and French Common Law programs featured inspiring advice from three special guests.
Dean Kristen Boon reminded students that legal education is about becoming both exceptional legal professionals and remarkable human beings.
“Remember that law school is about more than academics. It is about becoming an exceptional jurist and an exceptional human being. Grades matter, but so do empathy, integrity, adaptability and a commitment to community.”
Kristen Boon
— Susan & Perry Dellelce Dean
Gilbert Whiteduck, Algonquin Anishinaabe Knowledge Keeper, encouraged students to deepen their understanding of the realities facing First Nations.
“Use your time in law school to deepen your understanding of the realities and issues facing First Nations. Let’s ask ourselves what we can accomplish together to improve the situation.”
Gilbert Whiteduck
— Algonquin Anishinaabe Knowledge Keeper
The Honourable Michelle O’Bonsawin, alumna and Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, highlighted the importance of community involvement and helping others.
“Get involved in your community—this experience will nourish and transform you. Helping others should be one of your goals during your time in law school.”
Michelle O’Bonsawin, LLB ’98 & PhD ‘22
— Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada
The annual Dean’s Lunch
Students, faculty and staff gathered outdoors for the annual Dean’s Lunch, a relaxed, picnic-style celebration.
Dean Boon warmly greeted students, shook hands and took time to learn more about them. The arrival of The Merry Dairy ice cream truck made the afternoon even sweeter!
A welcome from student leaders
Members of the Common Law Student Society (AECLSS) were on hand to greet incoming students and help them feel at home. With support from many generous sponsors, the AECLSS also presented each student with a swag bag.
Building connections at the PCLF 5 à 7
The Programme de common law en français (PCLF) hosted a lively 5 à 7, giving students an opportunity to meet, build connections and engage with the PCLF community.
The PCLF would like to extend its sincere thanks to Conway Baxter Wilson LLP/s.r.l. for serving as the principal sponsor of Orientation and for its unwavering support of our student community.
For many years, Conway Baxter Wilson has been a valued partner of the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Law.
A leading litigation firm in Ottawa, Conway Baxter Wilson is recognized for its expertise in civil litigation, public law, administrative law, labour and employment law, human rights, and commercial litigation. The firm is also distinguished by its strong commitment to mentorship, student training, and the promotion of bilingualism within the legal profession.
Once again this year, the firm's lawyers generously took the time to meet with our incoming students during the Orientation Reception. Through their conversations, advice, and willingness to connect, they helped members of the new cohort explore a variety of career paths while building their first connections within the legal community.
We are deeply grateful for Conway Baxter Wilson's for its ongoing contribution to the success of our Orientation and the development of the next generation of legal professionals.
Preparing for law school
Other sessions held during the first two weeks explored topics including law school facts and myths, happiness and mental health, and the services of the Career Development Centre.
PCLF students also attended a Francophone community welcome featuring the Fondation Baxter & Alma Ricard and the Association des juristes d’expression française (AJEFO)
A Supreme Welcome
Orientation culminated in one of our biggest events of the year: the Supreme Welcome.
Held under a tent on the lawn of the Supreme Court of Canada, the reception offered a unique opportunity to meet prominent legal professionals. Speakers included Dean Kristen Boon; Mariam Moktar, President of the Ontario Bar Association; the Honourable Mahmud Jamal, Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada; and the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Students also had the opportunity to be among the first to tour the Supreme Court’s temporary new home in the West Memorial Building.
