Students and guests will gather in the Ron W. Ianni Faculty of Law Building during the WRLSI Student Conference, connecting and collaborating between sessions. (SARAH SMITHERMAN/University of Windsor)
By Sara Meikle
What does the future of law look like? Windsor Law students and legal professionals from across Canada will explore that question at the 19th annual Canadian Law Student Conference on March 5 and 6.
This year, Windsor Law’s student-run organization, Windsor Review of Legal and Social Issues (WRLSI), is infusing new energy into the landmark event, aiming to reestablish it as a nationally recognized conference.
“This year, we really wanted the theme to be broad enough to cover many areas of law while still offering focus,” said Rachel McCallister De Abreu, editor-in-chief of WRLSI. “The keynote speaker, panelists, and paper submissions will all reflect on their experiences and insights and consider how those lessons shape the future of the profession.”
The conference combines the WRLSI Journal, which publishes peer-reviewed student articles, with a two-day program of panels, presentations, and networking opportunities.
Students can showcase research, hear from prominent legal minds, and connect with peers and professionals from Detroit to British Columbia. Selected papers are published in the Journal, offering students the distinction of joining Windsor Law’s history and recognition through prizes.
This year’s keynote speaker is Michael Tulloch, Chief Justice of the Ontario Court of Appeal.
“It’s incredible to have Chief Justice Tulloch join us,” McCallister De Abreu said. “He’s enthusiastic about speaking to students, and it’s inspiring for everyone attending to hear from someone at the top of their field.”
Alumni involvement is also central to the conference’s revival. Several WRLSI alumni will moderate panels, providing mentorship and insight that enrich the student experience.
“Bringing alumni back allows them to share their experiences, connect with current students, and help build excitement for the event moving forward,” McCallister De Abreu said.
The conference promises networking opportunities for everyone in attendance — undergraduate students interested in law, law students, professors, judges, practicing lawyers and legal professionals. Attendees will discuss emerging legal trends, explore interdisciplinary perspectives, and engage with a community shaping the profession’s future.
Sponsors play a key role in making the conference possible. Torys LLP is a long-standing partner supporting awards and recognitions, and this year increased its contribution to help WRLSI elevate the conference. The law school itself generously sponsors the majority of the event, underscoring its strong institutional commitment. In addition, Karen E. Jacques, former WRLSI editor-in-chief of volumes 22 & 23, sponsors the Jacques Writing Prize.
“Sponsorship allows us to recognize student achievements and enhance the overall experience,” McCallister De Abreu said.
Organizing a conference of this magnitude is no small task. McCallister De Abreu acknowledges the hard work and dedication of Keren Harrison, Nick Kinnish, and Mo Hussain in bringing it all together.
“It’s been a great learning experience,” she reflected. “Coordinating logistics, confirming speakers, and marketing the event is challenging, but seeing faculty, alumni, and students come together makes it incredibly rewarding.”
With a keynote address, alumni panels and opportunities for students to present research and engage with the legal community, the Canadian Law Student Conference is reclaiming its place as a premier event for emerging legal professionals.
“Success for us is creating a meaningful experience where attendees leave feeling inspired, connected, and excited to share the conference with their communities,” McCallister De Abreu said.
As Windsor Law hosts this national gathering, the focus is on moving forward — building connections, celebrating student research, and exploring the evolving landscape of law.
The 19th Canadian Law Student Conference is more than an event; it’s a showcase of Windsor Law’s commitment to student leadership, mentorship, and shaping the next generation of legal minds.
Space is available. Register today for this event.