UNews - solicitor

Upholding the law in the land down under

trevor.kenney — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 22:02:16 +0000

With a finger-pointing, I've-got-you-now grin and an iconic light grey suit, criminal defense attorney, Ben Matlock, entertained television audiences for almost a decade with his ingenious perception and gritty determination to fight for truth. For one young boy growing up in the small town of Coronation, Alta., however, Matlock was more than mere entertainment; he was pure inspiration.

"It was the courtroom drama that got me. I used to watch Matlock and think, if he can do it, I can do it. When I watched him I knew I was born to be in the courtroom," explains solicitor, Jay Merchant (BA '05), who was recently admitted as a member of the Australian legal profession by the Supreme Court in Queensland.

Along with his interest in law, Merchant developed a love for politics and a passion for curling that have also strongly influenced his life's journey.

"The first time I heard Preston Manning speak I was fascinated by his personal approach to politics. I became a member of the Reform Party at age 15," says Merchant.

Jay Merchant, right, along with Barrister Debra Wardle, who moved his admission into the Supreme Court in Queensland.

Merchant's love of curling was a family affair. His father played in national oilman's competitions and his mom and older brother curled as well. Merchant spent the majority of his childhood winters at the rink, either watching the game or developing his skills.

"My older brother curls on a recreational level when he has time. He boasts he can kick my butt, but I am still waiting for him to put his money where his mouth his," jokes Merchant, who is a player-coach with the Australian National Curling Team.

With his three-fold passion, Merchant says that the move to Lethbridge to attend the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in 2000 was a perfect choice.

"Coming from a small town, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ was exactly what I needed, and I wouldn't change anything, but it was a steep learning curve for me. I was never a good writer but I had excellent professors, two in particular, Dr. Alan Siaroff and Dr. Geoffrey Hale. They had such a strict writing guide and they focused on using logical arguments and logical structure. I do a lot of writing now and without their dedication I would not have achieved what I have. It was a painful process but I am forever grateful to them," says Merchant. "I attended Bond ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in Australia for my post-graduate studies and the common theme between both institutions is that you are not just a number. I know my professors and consider them to be my mentors. There is something really special about that."

While completing his undergrad, Merchant kept busy with local politics and curling. He was a member of Rick Casson's steering committee and curled out of the Lethbridge Curling Club.

"I played juniors for Alberta and made it to provincials a number of times. I played for the U of L in 2003. We made it to the Canadian ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Championships; I think we were in the top five. I also have a few banners up at the Lethbridge Curling Club," recalls Merchant.

Merchant eyes an Olympic berth for Australia down the line.

Merchant completed his bachelor's degree in political science in 2005. He spent one year working in a municipal internship program in Red Deer before moving to Australia to pursue a master's of business law at Bond ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, which he completed in 2007. That same year the Australian Winter Olympic Committee asked him to migrate to Australia on a distinguished talent visa, but because curling is self-funded in Australia, Merchant had to return to Canada to earn enough money before he could take advantage of the AWOC proposal. He returned to Australia in 2010 to coach and play with the Australian National Team and pursue his law degree at Bond, which he completed in 2012.

"I did my Postgraduate Diploma of Legal Practice, with a placement in criminal law. I loved it. I plan to go into prosecution and later become a barrister. As for curling, Lyn Gill, my partner in mixed doubles and I are heading to Fredericton, N.B. in April to compete at the world championships. I am really looking forward to that!" says Merchant. "My long-term focus is on continuing to develop the sport in Australia and to qualify teams for the 2018 Olympics."

For anyone who happens to be in Fredericton in April and wants to wish Merchant good luck, you'll find him easily enough if you listen for his ringtone – it's the theme from Matlock.

This story first appeared in the November 2012 issue of the Legend. To view the full issue in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Sproule brings experience to counsel role

trevor.kenney — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 20:59:22 +0000

Sharon Sproule (BA '97) has been appointed as the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge's in-house legal counsel.

Sproule is a long-time Lethbridge resident and U of L graduate who joins the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ from Torry Lewis Abells, where she practised as a litigator and solicitor, joining the firm in 2003.

From 1997 to 2003 she worked with Lethbridge-based law firm Stringam Denecky, where she also articled following her graduation from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary law school in 1996.

Balancing a busy law practice, community service and professional development within the legal community, Sproule has also continued her relationship with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ as a sessional or guest lecturer in the faculties of Health Sciences, Management and other programs.

She is a member of the Law Society of Alberta, the Lethbridge Bar Association and the Alberta Mediation Society. Sproule is also active in the community as a volunteer with a number of local organizations, including Lethbridge Family Services, Rotary Urban Spirits, the Young Professionals Association and the Lethbridge Association of Collaborative Professionals.

"Having Sharon join us as in-house legal counsel will provide the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ with expertise that currently does not exist within our institution," says Nancy Walker, the U of L's vice-president (finance and administration). "The environment in which the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ operates is becoming very complex and we find the need to ensure that we are managing our risks appropriately."

Walker says that Sproule will be responsible for providing legal advice and guidance to the Senior Administrative Team and the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ as a whole, pertaining to a wide variety of issues and circumstances, including administrative, research, human rights,aemployment law matters, intellectual property matters, licensing matters and policies and procedures.

Sproule will also serve as the key contact for general operational business and commercial contracts.
She will report to the Vice-President (Finance & Administration) and can be reached at 403-332-4477.

This story first appeared in the November issue of the Legend. For a look at the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.

Alumni Association pays tribute to 2010 Honour Society inductees

trevor.kenney — Fri, 21 May 2010 15:15:48 +0000

In celebration of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ's 35th Anniversary in 2002, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Alumni Association established the Alumni Honour Society to recognize the achievements of successful alumni within the global community. The individuals inducted into this prestigious group serve as role models through success in their vocation, outstanding community service or superior accomplishment in their avocation.

Betty Jean Bastien (BASc (BA) '76)

As the first Pikuni member to receive a university degree, Betty Jean Bastien's life has been committed to the revitalization of First Nations culture in an attempt to regain their cultural identities and connect and re-establish the Indigenous pedagogical and healing practices of First Nation communities.

She is celebrated for her research on Blackfoot Child Development theories, Indigenous research methodologies, child welfare and intergenerational trauma. She is an amazing example of leadership in women, a scholar in her field, and a source of support and inspiration for many.

Belinda Crowson (BEd '92, BSc '99)

Belinda Crowson

Belinda Crowson is a woman who actively pursues excellence as the Museum Educator at the Galt Museum and Archives in Lethbridge, Alberta. She is an enthusiastic history professional – her interest, knowledge, organizational skills, research publications and teaching expertise at the grassroots level carry her into areas where she comfortably wears many hats.

Belinda is the "go to" person for all things historical – past and present. She has and does make a difference in the lives of many people in southern Alberta. Belinda engages students by making history come alive.

Doug Hudson (BASc '71)

Doug Hudson

As the City of Lethbridge's solicitor, Doug Hudson provides legal advice, opinions and services to the Mayor, Alderman and Department Heads. He was admitted into the bar in 1976 and was appointed Queen's Counsel in 2002. He has been an active member of the Alumni Association for many years, holding such positions as Senate representative, Chair of the Recognition Committee and member of the 35th Anniversary Planning Committee.

As Chair of the Lethbridge Legal guidance Society, he provides pro bono legal advice to those unable to afford to engage legal counsel.

Jill Kotkas (BEd '77)

Jill Kotkas

Jill Kotkas has been a teacher and mentor to people of all ages and in a variety of ways. She continues to lead by example and is respected for her integrity and belief in the ability of others to accomplish their dreams.

As a single mother, Jill attended university as a mature student to obtain her education degree and then assisted her own children to realize their own dreams with careers in medicine, law and teaching.

Jessie Snow (BASc (BA) '71, BEd '72, DipEd '81)

Jessie Snow

It has been said of Jessie Snow that she is always providing an open house, meal or humanitarian care for those who crossed her path. As an active advocate for mental health rights, Jessie served as the Special Education Consultant for Lethbridge Catholic School District and continued in this capacity until her retirement in 2007.

She was actively involved with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge by being the first woman president of the Students' Union, a founding member of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Senate in 1967 and served on the board of governors.

Clarence Taal (BMgt '82)

Clarence Taal

Clarence Taal is a very dedicated supporter of Lethbridge community projects and, in particular, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. He actively promotes the athletic teams and encourages students to attend the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, as he believes that it is a quality institution that provides an excellent education to students.

Clarence Taal has given back to his alma mater in time, treasury and talent.

The Alumni Honour Society 2010 Inductees

trevor.kenney — Fri, 07 May 2010 21:20:53 +0000

Betty Jean Bastien (BASc (BA) '76)

As the first Pikuni member to receive a university degree, Betty Jean Bastien's life has been committed to the revitalization of First Nations culture in an attempt to regain their cultural identities and connect and re-establish the Indigenous pedagogical and healing practices of First Nation communities.

She is celebrated for her research on Blackfoot Child Development theories, Indigenous research methodologies, child welfare and intergenerational trauma. She is an amazing example of leadership in women, a scholar in her field, and a source of support and inspiration for many.

Belinda Crowson (BEd '92, BSc '99)

Belinda Crowson is a woman who actively pursues excellence as the Museum Educator at the Galt Museum and Archives in Lethbridge, Alberta. She is an enthusiastic history professional – her interest, knowledge, organizational skills, research publications and teaching expertise at the grassroots level carry her into areas where she comfortably wears many hats.

Belinda is the "go to" person for all things historical – past and present. She has and does make a difference in the lives of many people in southern Alberta. Belinda engages students by making history come alive.

Doug Hudson (BASc '71)

As the City of Lethbridge's solicitor, Doug Hudson provides legal advice, opinions and services to the Mayor, Alderman and Department Heads. He was admitted into the bar in 1976 and was appointed Queen's Counsel in 2002. He has been an active member of the Alumni Association for many years, holding such positions as Senate representative, Chair of the Recognition Committee and member of the 35th Anniversary Planning Committee.

As Chair of the Lethbridge Legal guidance Society, he provides pro bono legal advice to those unable to afford to engage legal counsel.

Jill Kotkas (BEd '77)

As a single mother, Jill attended university as a mature student to obtain her education degree and then assisted her own children to realize their own dreams with careers in medicine, law and teaching.

Jessie Snow (BASc (BA) '71, BEd '72, DipEd '81)

It has been said of Jessie Snow that she is always providing an open house, meal or humanitarian care for those who crossed her path. As an active advocate for mental health rights, Jessie served as the Special Education Consultant for Lethbridge Catholic School District and continued in this capacity until her retirement in 2007.

She was actively involved with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge by being the first woman president of the Students' Union, a founding member of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Senate in 1967 and served on the board of governors.

Clarence Taal (BMgt '82)

Clarence Taal is a very dedicated supporter of Lethbridge community projects and, in particular, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge. He actively promotes the athletic teams and encourages students to attend the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, as he believes that it is a quality institution that provides an excellent education to students.

Clarence Taal has given back to his alma mater in time, treasury and talent.

UNews - solicitor

Upholding the law in the land down under

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