Rick Haga wins 2024 FOLA Luminary Award

For immediate release: November 22, 2024

The Federation of Ontario Law Associations (FOLA) is delighted to announce that Rick Haga, Executive Director of the County of Carleton Law Association (CCLA), has been awarded the Luminary Award, recognizing his extraordinary leadership and exceptional contributions to Ontario’s legal community. The Luminary Award recognizes the exceptional contributions of law association staff to the functioning of their local law library, their law association, and local justice system.

“Rick’s tireless work, vision, and innovation have transformed the County of Carleton Law Association and elevated the legal profession in Ontario,” said Sam Misheal, Chair of FOLA. “FOLA is proud to recognize Rick with the Luminary Award, which celebrates his remarkable impact and dedication to his association and the broader legal community.”

For the past 17 years, Rick  has exemplified extraordinary leadership and dedication in advancing the association’s mission. Under Rick’s stewardship, the CCLA has seen significant growth in member services and engagement. He has spearheaded initiatives to modernize the association’s operations, including implementing advanced technology solutions to enhance access to legal resources, such as Will Check, and streamline member communications. The renovated Gordon F Henderson Library and surrounding association area, completed under Rick’s watchful eye, provide Ottawa’s legal community with a warm, welcoming space.

Rick has been instrumental in developing comprehensive professional development programs that address the evolving needs of the legal profession, including the CCLA’s legal conferences which are premier events in Ottawa and beyond. His efforts have supported legal professionals at every stage of their careers, with a particular focus on fostering inclusivity and accessibility within the profession. Rick’s leadership extends to his active participation in provincial and national legal organizations, where he advocates for continuous improvement in legal practice and the justice system.

“Having Rick Haga as the Executive Director of the CCLA makes serving as its president not only easier but better,” said Sean Bawden, CCLA President. “Rick consistently knows not just the right answer but also the right thing to say. He embodies calmness, intelligence, and humility in everything he does. I feel incredibly fortunate to not only have Rick as our Executive Director but also to count him among my friends. On behalf of all the past presidents, boards, and members of the CCLA, it is my distinct honor to congratulate Rick Haga on receiving this well-deserved award.”

About FOLA

FOLA is a non-profit organization that represents Ontario’s 46 county and district law associations. Most of FOLA’s members are sole practitioners or work in small firms across the province.

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Contact:

Ian Hu

Director of Policy & Advocacy, FOLA

Email: ian.hu@fola.ca