Robert Marquette is the 2018 recipient of the second-ever Law Society of Alberta President's Award, given to a student graduating in the JD program with satisfactory academic standing who demonstrates the professional and ethical responsibilities and leadership that exemplifies the high standard of conduct the Law Society of Alberta expects from its members.
"I was ecstatic and humbled [to find out I was chosen for the award]. There are a huge number of deserving students within the Faculty who reflect the criteria for the Law Society of Alberta President's Award, and to be selected is an honour. The award means a great deal to me as it shows the Faculty, and the Law Society of Alberta, values students undertaking leadership roles," he said.
The award is endowed by Justice Anne Kirker (LLB '91, University of Calgary, B.Sc. '87, University of Alberta), past president of the Law Society of Alberta and now Justice of the Court of Queen's Bench of Alberta, with the support of her husband Scott Kirker, also a UAlberta Law graduate.
Before beginning law school, Marquette, who grew up on a farm just outside of Kelvington, Saskatchewan, obtained a bachelor of science honours degree in biology, focusing on ecology and toxicology. In his final year at UAlberta Law, he was president of the Law Students' Association. He said he is proud of the work he and his executive undertook to create the PASS Program, redesign the LSA Website and bring Gavelpalooza to fruition.
Marquette also served as a co-executive director of the 22nd annual Law Show this year, which saw the production of Monsters LLP.
"The highlight of my final year of law school would have to be Law Show. Being able to meet so many new students, work with all of the other directors to bring the production to life, and see how much fun everyone had was one of the most rewarding things I have ever been involved in," he said.
Following Convocation, Marquette will article with Alberta Justice & Solicitor General, and is hopeful he will remain there following the articling period.
"I am also hoping stay involved with the U of A Alumni Community, and the city of Edmonton as well," he said.