2024 Gold Medalist in Law seeks meaningful change
The University of Manitoba’s 2024 Gold Medalist in Law, Keelin Griffin was drawn to the legal profession in order to do work that was “interesting, complex and challenging,” that would also allow her to work with and for people in order to make meaningful change.
After graduation, Keelin will article at the Public Interest Law Centre, which represents groups and individuals on issues affecting the environment, human rights, Indigenous people, consumers and low-income persons.
“I am excited to contribute to the Centre’s mission of achieving law reform and systemic change in Manitoba and Canada that advances access to justice, substantive equality, reconciliation, greater access to essential services, and environmental sustainability,” said Keelin.
While in law school, Keelin had several very interesting experiences including working as a research assistant for a professor at York who studies temporary labour migration programs, with a specific focus on labour standards, safe working conditions, access to justice and meaningful pathways to permanent residency.
As well, Keelin took part in the Manitoba Court of Appeal Clerkship program which she described as, “an amazing opportunity to learn about oral and written advocacy and judicial decision-making at the highest court level in the province.”
The biggest lesson Keelin said she learned from attending UM was “To surround yourself with good people.”
She attributes her academic success to her supportive family, friends and partner.
Lastly, if she could go back in time and give herself some advice about attending university, Keelin would tell herself this: “It will be a winding path, but along the way you will learn a lot, meet great people and grow as a person. All the hard work will be worth it!”