Recipient of a 2024-2025 Alumni Student Leadership Award, Caitlin Grogan (BA'19) has been deeply involved as a student leader since her days as an arts undergraduate student on the Saint John campus, and now as a current student in the Faculty of Law in Fredericton.

Aiming to create an inclusive and equitable environment, she was elected as the law faculty councillor on the UNBSU in 2023, receiving the Faculty Councillor of the Year award. An ambassador and committed volunteer within her faculty, Caitlin has served as associate editor for the UNB Law Journal, as the mental health ombudsperson through the Law Students Society, a law peer supporter, law orientation peer mentor, president of the UNB Health Law Society, and co-founder of the Running from the Law club. Caitlin's involvement in the Competitive Mooting Program has also been particularly rewarding, highlighted by winning the 2023 McKelvey Cup and earning multiple advocacy awards at the national level. Engaged in many corners of campus life and in the community, Caitlin also serves on the UNB Board of Governors and volunteers with the UNB chapter of Pro Bono Students Canada.

What inspired you to enroll in UNB's faculty of law?

When deciding where to study, UNB stood out because of its small class sizes, which foster a close-knit learning environment and meaningful connections with peers and professors. Having completed my undergraduate degree at UNB Saint John, I already knew how much I loved the school, and I had a deep appreciation for the sense of community that comes with attending a smaller institution. I couldn't be happier with my choice.

What has been the most rewarding or exciting part of your academic studies?

The most rewarding part of my academic experience so far has been my involvement in the competitive moot program in the Faculty of Law. When I first started law school, I was nervous about mooting, but the support and guidance from my professors and instructors helped me build my confidence as an advocate. Their encouragement transformed what initially felt intimidating into one of the most fulfilling aspects of my studies. Last year, I was lucky to compete in the McKelvey Cup, the Regional Trial Advocacy Competition, which was hosted here at UNB. After winning the McKelvey Cup my partner and I advanced to the National Trial Advocacy Competition, the Sopinka Cup in Ottawa. Participating in the program has helped me improve my advocacy skills, providing me with practical experience that will serve as a strong foundation for my future career in litigation. This year, I am excited to represent UNB at the Gale Cup Competition in Toronto and to assist the first years as a teaching assistant in the legal advocacy course.

How do you stay involved in student life on campus?

I stay involved by being active in student government, as law faculty councillor with the UNBSU, as a faculty council representative with the Law Students Society, and as a student representative on the UNB Board of Governors. In addition to student government positions, I am actively involved in clubs and societies on campus, like as co-president of the Health Law Society. These positions allow me to connect with students and contribute to the vibrant educational community at UNB. I'll also never miss a law school event, like my favourite, Kangaroo Court!

How has receiving the Alumni Student Leadership Award positively impacted your UNB experience?

Receiving the Alumni Student Leadership Award has been incredibly motivating; It reinforced the importance of giving back to the community and validated the time I've invested in leadership and volunteering roles. Receiving this award has also helped ease the financial burden that comes with pursuing a second degree. This support has allowed me to focus more on my studies and extracurricular involvement, without the added financial stress, and for that, I am very grateful.

What makes you Proudly UNB?

I am Proudly UNB because of the immense support I've received throughout my academic journey and the support UNB provides to all their students. Without the encouragement and opportunities I found during my undergraduate studies at UNB Saint John, I would never have applied to law school. My experience in the Faculty of Law has also been incredibly positive, and I'm so grateful for the many opportunities UNB offers to its students. From mooting to experiential learning, there are so many opportunities available for students to supplement their academic learning with practical experience. These experiences have greatly shaped my personal and academic growth, and I feel fortunate to be part of the UNB community.

What are your future plans once you've completed your law degree?

After graduation, I will be returning home to Saint John for my articling placement!

How do you hope to continue staying connected to UNB in the future as a two-time alum?

I hope to stay connected with the UNB community by giving back in whatever way I can. I would love to remain involved in the competitive mooting program at the Faculty of Law to help future participants develop their skills and confidence!