What advice would I give to new lawyers who are considering joining the Canadian Bar Association?

Enroll in as many sections and Conferences that are relevant to your practice and personal interests.  If you want to help effect change, whether in the law, practice management or governance of the CBA, volunteer to become a member of Branch Council, a section or conference executive (at the Branch level and nationally) or a National Standing Committee.  Attend the CLC.  Take part in Law Day activities.  Take advantage of other membership programs and benefits, like insurance, RRSPs and online resources at www.CBA.org, including PracticeLink, that are accessible with your CBA membership number.  Join now.  It will pay dividends throughout your career.

What has been the greatest benefit of membership that I have experienced in my time with the CBA?

My practice has benefitted most from access to cost-effective, exceptional quality educational programs.  I especially enjoy using technology to participate in national web-based sessions and Branch section meetings at my desk, since my office is located over an hour from Halifax Regional Municipality, where most of them are held.  The spin-off is learning who the “go to” lawyers are when I need to refer a client elsewhere.  On a personal level, I have benefitted most from the friendships I have made with Canadian lawyers I would never have met without the CBA connection.

How will my previous experience in the CBA at the local and national level prepare me for the role of President?

After 28 years of membership, 16 years on Branch Council, and attendance at nearly 30 National Council meetings, I understand CBA culture, governance and initiatives.  I have worked co-operatively with others in the Branch and nationally in various roles and, consequently, know members and staff across the country.  I have met with judges and government leaders to discuss issues of concern.  I believe that I can be an effective ambassador and spokesperson for the CBA, having worked to advance the goals of the CBA by organizing conferences and Law Day activities, as Branch President and member of the National and Law for the Future Fund Boards of Directors, chairing National Council Resolutions debates, being a member of the Equity Committee, National Elder Law Section Executive and National Women Lawyers Forum Executive and motivating others to become more involved.

What do I consider the priorities for the Canadian Bar Association over the next five years?

My top three priorities are membership, leadership and advocacy.  These are intertwined.  The CBA needs a broad membership base to remain an influential, effective organization in promoting law reform and access to justice.  Therefore, we must be aware of societal trends, like increasing ethnic diversity, an aging population, generational differences regarding work/life balance, and a lack of professionals choosing to practise in rural and isolated communities, and how they impact our ability to attract and retain members.  We must continue to provide relevant, useful services to our members and reflect society's diversity in our leadership.  It is also critical in the current economic climate that we advocate vigorously for adequate government funding for legal aid.

Why do I want to be President of the CBA?

I am proud of the work the CBA does in the branches, nationally and in other parts of the world.  I believe CBA is making a difference and I want to do more to raise the profile of the CBA and lawyers generally.  Seven years ago, National President Daphne Dumont, in her final presidential speech, recommended this role to every member.  Her words inspired me to become more involved at the national level.  I see a need for greater diversity in our leadership to inspire other lawyers to want to belong to CBA and take on leadership roles.