(L-R) Melissa Kluger, Jim Phillips and Yola Ventresca (photos courtesy of the Law Society of Ontario)
Faculty of Law professor, alumni recognized by Law Society
Published: July 11, 2025
Three members of the Faculty of Law community – Professor Jim Phillips and alumni Melissa Kluger and Yola Ventresca – have been recognized by the Law Society of Ontario.
Phillips and Kluger received Law Society Medals in recognition of their contributions and dedication to the legal profession. Philips was honoured for his contributions to Canadian legal history as a teacher, scholar and editor-in-chief of the Osgoode Society for Canadian Legal History; Kluger, who graduated with a bachelor of laws in 2001, was honoured for her commitment to legal journalism through her magazine publication, Precedent.
Ventresca, who graduated with a master of laws in 2007, received the Laura Legge Award, which recognizes women lawyers for their exemplary leadership. A partner at Lerners LLP, Ventresca has championed mentorship, challenged traditional approaches to professional development for junior lawyers – particularly women – and contributed to numerous charitable and advocacy efforts.
“Jim has a profound passion to advance Canadian legal history and has earned recognition for his invaluable scholarly contributions to the field,” said Jutta Brunnée, University Professor and dean of the Faculty of Law. “His scholarship has not only impacted Canadian law, but also our understanding of Canadian identity.
Brunnée added it is "deeply rewarding" to see Faculty of Law alumni distinguishing themselves as leaders. “We are thrilled that Melissa and Yola have been recognized by the Law Society.”
