The Class Actions Section of the Ontario Bar Association presented its inaugural Award for Excellence in Class Actions to UWindsor law professor Jasminka Kalajdzic during its annual colloquium program earlier this month.

Prof. Kalajdzic, director of the Class Action Clinic at Windsor Law, says she is grateful for the support of her colleagues in the profession and remains firmly committed to improving access to justice for those harmed by mass wrongs.

“Most of my professional life has been devoted to collective justice, as a litigator, teacher, researcher and now clinic director,” says Kalajdzic. “I have been both a critic and a champion of class actions in these roles.”

The OBA Award for Excellence in Class Actions was created to recognize an outstanding member of the Ontario Bar Association for exceptional achievements, distinguished service, and contributions in the following areas:

• the development of class action law through advocacy, teaching, writing, speaking, volunteering, pro-bono work, or legislative reform;
• leadership in the practice area;
• maintaining the highest standards of professional competence including integrity and civility; and
• commitment to the community at large.

“Professor Kalajdzic has always been a leading light at Windsor Law,” adds dean of law Reem Bahdi. “We are delighted that her leadership as an innovator and advocate has been recognized with this prestigious award from the OBA.”

Kalajdzic joined the Faculty of Law in 2009 after 12 years in private practice as a civil litigator. Since its launch in October 2019, the Class Actions Clinic has surpassed expectations and milestones in offering legal assistance and resources to class members, with increasing client demand confirming the long-standing need for a Class Action Clinic in the country.

Watch the Ontario Bar Association’s award presentation.