Today, Thursday 15 August 2024, we say goodbye to Kathleen Laverty, as she leaves her role as Clinic Director after almost 18 years with us at the Law Clinic, and embarks on retirement.

Below are a few words from Kate…

“After almost 18 years with the Law Clinic it is time to say goodbye. The Law Clinic has been a huge part of my life and in so many ways it feels like yesterday since my first days. The beginning saw me being chief cook and bottle washer- answering the phone, arranging client appointments, supervising casework and fighting my way to a desk amidst the melee of students who loved to congregate in our one room in the Lord Hope building. It was the kind of chaos I thrived in but I was ever grateful for each new person who was added to the team. I have worked with so many terrific students over that time, so many of whom gave so much of their time and energy to do their utmost for their clients, and they are still doing the same today. They push themselves out of their comfort zones and show immense courage in what they do. This has never ceased to encourage and inspire me in my role. I have also worked with brilliant colleagues, in the Law School and the Law Clinic, and I could never wish for better team mates than Kathleen, Gillian and Diane. Each and every one are so good at what they do but they are also supportive, collaborative and a lot of fun. Although the Law Clinic has in many ways changed beyond recognition since those first days, at it’s heart it has never lost sight of its main purpose, to help improve access to justice in the best way we can. While I am moving on to a new life of retirement, full of excitement about what that will bring, I will miss all the people who are the Law Clinic. I am leaving behind a dynamic, flourishing and ever committed group of people and I very much look forward to hearing all about their achievements in the years to come.”

We thank Kate for her many years of service, and unwavering dedication to our clinic, our clients, our students and access to justice. I hope you will all join us in wishing her well in retirement!