“The government can never build a strong country on its own. It can help, create conditions, facilitate, and implement the right public policies. But beyond that, it’s up to the people. Everyone must contribute to building a strong nation.”
These words belong to Anne McLellan, a politician whose contributions to Canada’s development include years of service as the Deputy Prime Minister. A legal scholar, university professor, and tireless leader in volunteer work, Anne has left an indelible mark on Canadian society. More on edmonton-yes.com.
It All Starts with Academia
Anne McLellan was born on August 31, 1950, in Noel Shore, Nova Scotia. She grew up in a family with two other children, where her parents were involved in party politics.
After graduating from high school in Noel Shore, Anne pursued higher education at Dalhousie University. She quickly established herself as a successful student and an active member of the Liberals Club.
After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, Anne continued her studies in law, receiving a Master of Laws degree from King’s College University in London in 1974.
In 1976, she was admitted to the Nova Scotia Bar and began working at a law firm in Halifax. However, after a short time in practice, Anne decided to return to academia and joined the law faculty at the University of New Brunswick.
At the University of New Brunswick, Anne taught contract and constitutional law and served as Deputy Dean. She became the first woman to be granted a tenured position on the university’s law faculty.
Moving to Alberta
In 1980, Anne McLellan moved to Edmonton, a city she considers her second home—a move that would change her life forever. She began teaching at the University of Alberta, focusing on constitutional issues discussed by then-Alberta Premier Pierre Trudeau. His vision resonated with Anne, and he became a mentor and colleague.
For the next 13 years, Anne served on the University of Alberta’s law faculty, holding positions as an associate professor, full professor, and Deputy Dean. In 1987, she spent a sabbatical year as a visiting scholar at Duke University, where she taught a course on Comparative Civil Liberties.
Entering Politics
While Anne built a solid reputation as a legal expert, she also became actively involved in political activities with the Liberal Party. She worked on legislative development and supported candidates during election campaigns.
In 1992, Anne took her first step as a candidate when community leaders approached her to run for federal office. After consulting her family, she decided to stand as the Liberal candidate in Edmonton Northwest.
In 1993, Anne McLellan became the first federal Liberal elected in Alberta, serving as Minister of Natural Resources. She played a pivotal role in advancing Alberta’s oil sands development at the national level.
In 1997, Anne was re-elected in the newly formed Edmonton West riding. She was appointed Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. In 2002, she became Canada’s Minister of Health.
Life After Politics
Anne left politics in 2006 and joined Bennett Jones LLP as a senior advisor. She also became a distinguished scholar at the University of Alberta’s Research Chair.
In 2011, Anne agreed to chair Dalhousie’s Advisory Council and later became the university’s 7th Chancellor. She continues to educate and inspire future generations.
Anne McLellan has received numerous prestigious awards for her work. She is an Officer of the Order of Canada and holds honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from the University of Alberta and Cape Breton University.