A Milestone in Justice Education: Celebrating the First Graduates of the JLS Program
This summer marks a proud and historic moment for the University of Guelph as the first cohort of students graduated from the Justice and Legal Studies (JLS) program—an innovative and uniquely interdisciplinary major that has quickly become a cornerstone of the university’s academic landscape.
Justice and Legal Studies at U of G
The vision for Justice and Legal Studies took shape not in a boardroom, but around a dining room table over four years ago, where spirited discussions and a now-legendary flowchart laid the groundwork for what would become a transformative academic offering. Faculty members like Dr. Troy Riddell, Dr. Dennis Baker, and Dr. Bryon Sheldrick envisioned a program that would explore how justice and legal institutions intersect with politics, governance, business, the arts, and global issues. They recognized a growing demand for legal education that extended beyond the traditional confines of criminal justice.
While the University’s Criminal Justice and Public Policy program had long been a popular choice, its emphasis on crime and criminology left a gap for students interested in broader questions about how law shapes and is shaped by society. That gap became the foundation for something new.
during the JLS bench reveal
At its core, JLS is anchored by a political science “spine” of courses focused on the study of courts and legal systems. Students begin their journey with JLS1000, a foundational course taught by Dr. Mark Harding, who has been with the program since its inception.
“I’ve had the chance to work with these students closely over the last four years, and it has been a highlight of my career. There’s a term we casually use—‘Guelph-iness’—that captures the spirit of community and engagement you’d expect from a small institution. But it’s happening here, at a larger scale with the JLS faculty and staff, the JLS Society, and the extended family of JLS. Their achievements mark the beginning of a legacy that will shape the future of justice education at Guelph and beyond.”
The program concludes with JLS4000, a capstone course that includes a mock trial experience—an exercise that has already earned praise from guest judges for its rigor and realism.
Among those impressed was Political Science alumnus and founder of Appiah Law, Rich Appiah, who presided over the mock trials and reflected, “I was sincerely impressed by their preparation, attention to detail, and ability to think on their feet, so much so that they performed better than some practicing lawyers I’ve encountered.”
This experiential learning component not only showcases the students’ academic growth but also affirms the program’s commitment to excellence in legal education.
A Rapid-Growing Program That's Making a Lasting Impact
Since its launch in 2021 with just 34 students, the JLS program has grown exponentially, now boasting nearly 400 students. This rapid growth is a testament to the program’s relevance and the dedication of its faculty.
Dr. Byron Sheldrick, the University’s Associate Vice-President Academic and faculty member in the Department of Political Science, reflects, “As the first graduates cross the stage, they do so not only as pioneers of a new academic path but as ambassadors of a program that reflects the evolving landscape of justice education. Their journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and the belief that legal studies can—and should—be as diverse and dynamic as the society it seeks to serve.”
This year’s graduation celebration was made even more meaningful by the unveiling of a commemorative bench—a fundraising initiative led entirely by the students through the JLS Society. Looking ahead, the Society is channelling that same spirit and continues to fundraise towards the creation of the first-ever Justice and Legal Studies undergraduate scholarship.
Motivated by a belief in the power of generosity and the desire to make a lasting impact, the JLS Society hopes to create a scholarship that will recognize academic excellence and support future JLS students.
“We’ve launched this initiative to create a lasting reminder of what this program stands for and to support future students who follow,” says Michelle Wilk <hyperlink to spotlight>, graduating JLS student and Co-President of the JLS Society. “It’s about more than just today—it’s about shaping tomorrow!”
Their goal is ambitious: once the Undergraduate Justice and Legal Studies Award is launched, the society’s long-term vision is to endow it, creating a rare and powerful legacy that will provide financial support to JLS students year after year, for generations to come.
To learn more about how you can make a difference, or to make a donation of up to $25,000, please contact Elizabeth Rauchenstein, Alumni Advancement Manager, at erauchen@uoguelph.ca. For donations over $25,000, please contact Cristina Coates, Senior Development Manager, at ccoate02@uoguelph.ca. Together, we can shape a future built on opportunity, inclusivity, and shared success, inspiring a ripple effect of generosity.