‘Practise what you want to become’: Class of 2028 called to embody professionalism and civility
September 05, 2025
Now in its tenth year, Western Law’s annual Induction Ceremony, centered on the faculty’s Professionalism Pledge, has become an important tradition for incoming JD students.
On September 2, 198 students signed and recited the pledge affirming their commitment to professional conduct at law school and upon entering the legal profession.
Dean Mohamed Khimji opened the event held at Western’s new Ronald D. Schmeichel Building for Entrepreneurship and Innovation with an inspirational address touching on the vast possibilities that lie ahead for the class of 2028.
“Law school is the start of something much bigger than a degree,” said Khimji. “Law touches everything in our society: business, government, health, technology and the environment. Legal education opens doors to leadership roles across all these aspects of society.”
Adding a sentiment repeated throughout the day’s remarks, Dean Khimji emphasized that the supportive community at Western Law is a defining feature of the student experience.
“You’re joining a community that’s deeply committed to your success,” promised Khimji. “We will challenge you, we will support you and we will celebrate with you along the way.”
Defining professional and civil conduct
As the 2024 recipient of the Ontario Bar Association’s prestigious Joel Kuchar Award for Professionalism and Civility, Katherine Di Tomaso (’03), civil litigator at Stieber Berlach LLP, was a fitting choice to deliver the day’s keynote address.
Di Tomaso began her remarks defining professionalism and civility and explained how students should translate the concepts into action at law school, as practising lawyers and in society.
“Professionalism is the foundation upon which public confidence in the justice system rests. Professionalism shows up in many ways, in collegiality, in inclusiveness, respect, an open attitude towards others, leadership and integrity,” said Di Tomaso.
“Civility is part of professionalism, but it does deserve its own emphasis. Civility means being courteous and respectful towards clients, colleagues, opposing counsel, faculty, judges and the courts. It means upholding the integrity of the legal system.”
She later highlighted the importance of maintaining civility through respectful communications, especially in difficult circumstances, and advised students that developing a reputation for professionalism is an every day practice beginning in the halls of law school.
“We're currently living in a time where having difficult conversations is even more challenging due to polarized views. I urge you to keep your dignity and to respect the dignity of others at all costs,” Di Tomaso emphasized.
“Professionalism and civility are not things that you put on like a suit after graduation or a strand of pearls. They are lived values, practised 24/7. You practise what you want to become.”
According to DiTomaso, a lawyer’s call to professionalism “does not end at the office door.” She encouraged students to contribute their “time, talent and expertise to the public.”
“Professionalism extends beyond the courtroom and the boardroom. Give back to your community, your alma mater. Volunteer, mentor, teach and stay engaged,” said Di Tomaso. “Being a professional means living your values, both inside and outside of your practice.”
Building a network of support
Ontario Bar Association (OBA) President Katy Commisso echoed the call for students to get involved in the legal community, highlighting opportunities to take advantage of the education, resources and support the OBA offers.
“As you make this great leap today, legal leaders of tomorrow, know that the OBA has your back and looks forward to all that you will contribute not only to this profession, but to your provincial professional association,” said Commisso.
“Your voices, your perspectives, your suggestions are valuable, powerful and welcome. We want to hear from you and have your input as we collectively work to shape a profession we are so proud to claim."
Jacqueline Fortner (’15), President of the Middlesex Law Association, welcomed students to London and assured them that they join a city full of lawyers whose “doors are always open and who are always happy to answer questions and provide opportunities.”
Student Legal Society President Olivia Villani concluded the day’s event acknowledging the arduous road ahead for the new law students while emphasizing that the support of their peers will carry them through.
“Today marks the beginning of a challenging but ultimately rewarding journey. It’s important to note that you’re not alone. My experience has allowed me to firmly conclude that there is a community for everyone at Western Law,” said Villani.
“However you choose to involve yourself, the key is to connect with your peers to actively engage with the Western Law community and to build a community around yourself. At some point in your journey, you will need the support of your peers, and at some point, they will need your support too.”
