Fraser served as Alberta’s chief justice for 30 years, from 1992 to 2022. She was the first woman appointed chief justice of a province and was the youngest person to serve in the role in Alberta.

“Alberta is thankful for Chief Justice Fraser’s three decades of defending the rule of law and our constitutional order. She is a trailblazer, and I’m proud we are able to honour her service with a scholarship in her name to support law school students who she has inspired.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

“This scholarship will not only recognize the excellence of Chief Justice Fraser, but it will reward deserving law students with a significant contribution towards their studies. I am glad we can continue to honour her legacy through new supports to our students.”

Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education

“I appreciate and am humbled by the creation of this scholarship. I am particularly pleased that the scholarship is directed to principles and values fundamental to our society and democracy.”

Catherine Fraser, former chief justice of Alberta

“As one of our most prominent alumni, Catherine Fraser has brought immense pride and honour to the University of Alberta Faculty of Law. We are thrilled to see the Government of Alberta recognize her legacy through this scholarship, which will benefit future law students for years to come.”

Barbara Billingsley, dean, faculty of law, University of Alberta 

“I am proud that we are able to be joining with the Government of Alberta and our friends at the University of Alberta to honour Chief Justice Fraser. Catherine Fraser has been a towering figure in Alberta for many decades, and I couldn’t be happier that we are creating a living memorial to her.”

Ian Holloway, dean, faculty of law, University of Calgary 

Funding of $500,000 will support the scholarship, which will award $12,500 each year to two law students – one studying at the University of Alberta and one studying at the University of Calgary.

Criteria for awarding the scholarship will be based around student focus on legal principles defended by Chief Justice Fraser: the preservation of key democratic principles; the rule of law; constitutionalism, including federalism and guaranteed rights; the delivery of fair and equal justice; and the protection of human rights. Details on when and how students can apply for the scholarship will be available soon.