One of Canada's foremost Aboriginal rights lawyers and a tireless advocate for Canada's First Nations was installed as Vancouver Island University's (VIU) chancellor at the convocation ceremony in Nanaimo on January 29.
Louise Mandell Q.C. is recognized for her exceptional and forward-thinking work in advancing Aboriginal and treaty rights. She is one of the founders of the nationally recognized and respected law firm Mandell Pinder, established in 1983 specifically to support Canada's Indigenous people to achieve recognition and implementation of their constitutional rights.
"Louise inspires others through her diligence, energy, creativity and use of a collaborative approach," said Dr. Ralph Nilson, President and Vice-Chancellor of VIU.
"She shares similar values to VIU as well. Throughout her career she has used law as an agent for positive change; VIU uses education in the same way. Louise recognizes the important role education plays in the development of people and communities and is seen by many as an invaluable mentor."
Passionate about education, Mandell uses her skills as a writer and as a public speaker at workshops and forums to pass on her knowledge and expertise.
Mandell has been recognized for her work with a number of designations and awards. In 1997 she was appointed Queen's Counsel; in 2001 she was awarded the Georges Goyer Q.C. Memorial Award for exceptional contribution to the development of Aboriginal and Treaty Rights jurisprudence across the country.
Today Mandell is partner emeritus at Mandell Pinder, still connected but no longer involved in the day-to-day practice of law. This has created space for her to focus her considerable skills and expertise in other areas.
— Submitted by VIU