Finally, the Fraser Tradition is about change and innovation. And about taking risks. Almost everyone of you could have gone to a different law school. And part of the answer is that all of the staff, Faculty and students at UVic Law have an openness to change that is not often found at the University. This tradition of innovation is, in a sense, the antithesis of a law school.
Law is a deeply conservative institution.
The Fraser tradition is the opposite. When asked what we should do, we have learned to question, and to question critically and vigorously, accepted truths. When asked how to build a law school, we have looked not only to the past, but to the future. How can we best achieve those goals, while remaining true to the values of humanity, of diversity, of public service and academic excellence that define us. This willingness to embrace change will serve you well as the legal profession transforms itself during the coming decades.