Sergeant Jason Harley knows a thing or two about having a busy schedule.
A full-time member of the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) during the three years he attended law school, he is the recipient of the first-ever Law Society of Alberta President's Award.
The award is granted to a student graduating in the JD program with satisfactory academic standing. To qualify for the award, the student must demonstrate professional and ethical responsibilities, and leadership that exemplifies the high standard of conduct that the Law Society of Alberta expects from its members.
The award is endowed by Anne Kirker, QC (LLB '91, University of Calgary, B.Sc.'87, University of Alberta), immediate past President of the Law Society of Alberta, with the support of her husband Scott Kirker, also a UAlberta Law graduate.
A major theme of Kirker's presidency was a concern for professionalism in the legal profession. In March, Kirker was a guest speaker at the Faculty's new Dean's Women in Law Speaker Series, where she expressed her concern and support for professional identity. The award presented to Harley signifies her continued support to the Faculty, and profession as a whole.
In his second year at the Faculty, the 16-year EPS veteran was a member of the team who represented UAlberta Law at the Wilson Moot, a national competition that explores legal issues concerning women and minorities. He placed third overall in the individual best oralist standings, and competed against students from 12 other law schools across Canada.
"Working full-time in a challenging position with the Edmonton Police Service, completing full-time law school studies and volunteering with my son's baseball and hockey teams over the last 3 years was incredibly rewarding and at times trying. I am grateful for having been granted the opportunity to dedicate time to endeavours I loved," he said, adding that he's also grateful for the support and patience of faculty members, his family, friends and coworkers.
"I am humbled to receive this award. The class of 2017 is full of extraordinary people who work hard each day. It was privilege to be a part of this group."
Congratulations, Jason, on this outstanding achievement!