The celebration marks the beginning of a transformative journey for new law students, and the Common Law Section was thrilled to welcome a fresh cohort of aspiring legal minds. The comprehensive two-week schedule of orientation activities included academic and professional sessions, while nurturing a sense of belonging and anticipation for the challenges ahead.
The week's festivities began with a grand Welcoming Ceremony, in front of Fauteux Hall on Morisset Terrace. Dean Kristen Boon shared her own memories of law school orientation, empathizing with the mixed emotions that often accompany this pivotal moment in a student's life.
"I remember my law school orientation day like it was yesterday. I was as nervous as I was happy, but I also felt far from home. I had the feeling that half the members of my cohort felt perfectly at home and the other half didn't think they deserved to be there,” she said, before reassuring them: “You all belong here. You've worked hard. You've proven yourselves.”
Dean Boon also reminded students of the remarkable achievement it is to be part of the Common Law Section. "Today is the first day of your legal career. Over 2711 people applied for the 305 places here in the English Program, and 88 in the French program," she noted, highlighting the competitiveness and honor associated with joining this prestigious institution.
Gilbert Whiteduck, Indigenous Knowledge Holder for the Common Law Section, offered words of encouragement that resonated deeply with the audience. He spoke of the importance of mental, physical, psychological, and emotional wellness, a timely reminder for students about to embark on a demanding academic journey.
Yan Campagnolo, Vice-Dean of the French Common Law Program, shared insights into the transformative nature of legal education. "Starting law school is a defining moment in one's life. You enter law school as 'ordinary citizens'. Your training will transform you, and you will leave as 'jurists' armed with a vision and knowledge that will enable you to contribute to a fairer society," he affirmed, inspiring a sense of purpose among the incoming students.
The Welcoming Ceremony was just the beginning of a series of events designed to ease students into their new academic home. The Dean's BBQ, which brought together faculty members, students and staff, served as a delightful opportunity for students to connect with their professors and administrators in a relaxed atmosphere. Treats from local ice cream maven, Merry Dairy, added a sweet touch to the gathering, further enhancing the sense of community.
Over the first two weeks, new students were introduced to the resources and support systems available to them, as well as opportunities for engagement. One such event, the Mooting Demonstration led by Professor Anthony Daimsis, showcased the exhilarating world of moot court and highlighted the many benefits of hands-on learning through activities such as moot competitions.
Moreover, sessions such as “Building and Cultivating an Inclusive Community” and “Happiness, Wellness & Mental Health” emphasized and reinforced the values that underpin the institution's commitment to fostering an equitable learning environment.
Two standout events held at the Bytowne Theatre added cultural and historical dimensions to the orientation. "Literature, Law, and Life: Meditations on the novel Dandelion and a Career in Immigration and Refugee Law" featured Professor Jamie Chai Yun Liew, author of the book Dandelion, who shared insights into her creative process and the intersections between literature and the legal profession. This event encouraged students to embrace their Interdisciplinary interests.
In a powerful tribute, the screening of "Without Precedent: The Supreme Life of Rosalie Abella" brought former Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella to the Bytowne Theatre. The guest list was a true who’s-who of the legal profession; from Supreme court Justices to Members of Parliament, the audience included more than first year students and was a testament to the enduring legacy of the inimitable Rosalie Abella. Justice Abella's post-screening discussion with the audience added a personal touch to the event, offering a rare opportunity to interact with a legal luminary.
The pinnacle of the orientation, however, was the Welcome Reception held on the lawn of the Supreme Court of Canada on September 12. This annual tradition for the incoming class of the Common Law Section was a momentous occasion, graced by keynote speaker the Honourable Michelle O'Bonsawin, the first Indigenous justice of the Supreme Court of Canada. Kelly McDermott, President of the Ontario Bar Association and an alum, also addressed the gathering.
Dean Boon aptly highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the Faculty and the Supreme Court of Canada. She stated, "The University of Ottawa and the Supreme Court enjoy an excellent relationship, and their past is steeped in history. It's no coincidence that the ties between the Faculty and the country's highest court run so deep. Over 100 of our alumni and professors have clerked at the Supreme Court - and I would note that our guest today Justice O'Bonsawin has already hired two of our grads as clerks!"
Justice e O’Bonsawin is herself a double grad from the Faculty, having acquired her LLB in 1998 in the French Common Law Program as well as her PhD in 2022. During her captivating address she said “In your legal journey, the road ahead will not always be a straight one. There will be bumps and curves in the road and there is nothing wrong with that. In response, you must learn how to pivot and redirect when needed.”
The orientation activities, with their blend of tradition, innovation, and inclusivity, have set the stage for a year of intellectual growth, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to justice. For the law students, professors, and alumni, this academic journey promises to be a remarkable chapter in their legal career.