Marie Gordon, QC (photo courtesy of Alberta Order of Excellence website)
Marie Gordon, QC remembers what it was like as a new graduate from the University of Alberta Faculty of Law, wondering if she had what it took to be a success in her profession.
Now Gordon, 63, is approaching four decades as a practicing lawyer in Edmonton. She's an award-winning lawyer, a mother and a wife and in October 2017 was awarded the Alberta Order of Excellence, a distinction given to only a handful of Albertans who have made a difference in the province.
Like many would be, she was surprised and humbled the day she got the call but also grateful to those who nominated her.
"It's looking back on my life and being glad some of the things I've done over 40 years were being recognized," said Gordon.
This year Gordon shares the honor with seven inductees, including Vivian Manasc, a visionary in the field of sustainable architecture, and Dr. Anne Fanning Binder, an award-winning physician and advocate for Indigenous health.
At the induction ceremony, Gordon said she was humbled by the inductees with whom she shared the stage.
"Everyone on that list has done extraordinary things, different and varied," said Gordon.
But she said being a lawyer is a tremendous privilege because it gives her the unique opportunity to earn a living, teach, share information and opinions, strengthen community organizations and push for legal reforms.
Gordon is no stranger to praise and accolades. As a name partner at Gordon Zwaenepoel LLP, an Edmonton firm specializing in family law, she's a familiar and respected face among the community.
She is a widely published author and speaks frequently on family law topics like parenting, child and spousal support, property division and costs. She is also extremely active as a community volunteer, serving on the board of directors at the Edmonton Community Legal Centre, which provides legal assistance to low income Edmontonians unable to privately hire lawyers.
A highly respected sessional instructor at UAlberta Law, Gordon was awarded the Pringle Royal Teaching Excellence Award in 2012, and in 2011 she received the University of Alberta's Alumni Honour Award for her contributions to the community.
Gordon said she is grateful for her career because it gives her tools to participate meaningfully in the community.
"Law is a wonderful vehicle to affect change, to press for equality, especially for women and minorities," she said.
And as a successful lawyer, an alumna and a sessional instructor, she has advice for those just beginning to study law and for those soon-to-be graduates, urging them to practice both patience and kindness as they work to get established and never lose the desire to learn.
"At age 63, I am still learning how to practice law better, and it never stops."