Beverly McLachlin, PC is the 17th Chief Justice of Canada has served our country with great honor and distinction for over three decades. Born and raised in Pincher Creek, Alberta her story is one of hard-work, perseverance and exceptional intellect. Graduating with a Bachelors in Philosophy then continuing into Law School at the University of Alberta where she was recognized as the top student during her studies she was called to the Bar of Alberta in 1969. After practicing law until 1975 she perused academia as an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia until she was then appointed Chief Justice of the British Columbia Supreme Court in 1988. However her career acceleration didn’t stop as just a year later she was nominated to serve as a judge for the Supreme Court of Canada  in 1989 by Prime Minister, Brian Mulroney and then appointed Chief Justice in 2000 by Prime Minister, Jean Chrétien. Throughout her life she’s been a transcendent formative figure in her profession with over 27 honorary degrees from universities across Canada and other countries throughout the world.

It was a real and sincere honor to meet Justice McLachlin at an Ottawa reception back in 2012 at the University of Ottawa just before leaving to Alberta to continue on my own journey of professional development and growth.I wanted to personally acknowledge Justice McLachlin and wish her well as she retires from the Queen’s Bench. Beverley is a trailblazer for more than her gender, the work she’s done throughout the years has helped shape and make our country what it is today, for me her life long integrity is what’s been most impressive. Yes, she’s Canada’s first female Chief Justice however her decisions, diplomatic and respected judgment will be the legacy that she is remembered for along with the ceiling her appointment broke and the merit of which it was earned.

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