To help each other and to always do what’s best for each other and the community. For Jackie Halpern, this is what it means to live by the value of Tikkun Olam in her family, career, and community involvement. A CHS 1980 Grade 9 alumna, Jackie currently lives in Calgary and has practiced law as a civil litigator for 35 years, “and I still love it!” Jackie exclaims. She was appointed Queen’s Counsel (now known as KC, or King’s Counsel) in 2011.
Jackie is clear about how deeply the school impacted her, influencing her understanding of Jewish traditions, the foundations of her education, and many lifelong friendships. She shares, “[My friends] and I have shared so many life moments growing up at the CJA and those friendships have beautifully endured for a lifetime.”
Not only does Jackie reflect on these special connections today, but she also holds her “many wonderful memories!” closely. Whether it’s her trip to the Alberta legislature, a camping trip where a small group of kids got lost and had the forest rangers find them, or finally being able to lead the Passover Seder in grade 9, Jackie remembers them all with fondness.
“The CJA instilled a very strong work ethic in me,” Jackie says. It’s no wonder Jackie’s education at the University of Calgary carried her through two degrees, starting with a B.A. in Political Science (with a minor in Psychology), and then her LL.B. from the Faculty of Law. She shares, “the values learned [at the CJA] are woven into the fabric of my life.” “I believe strongly in helping others, and my profession as a lawyer is integral to that principle.”
Speaking of principles, Jackie is also proud to say she attended with the current CJA principal, Shelly Gelfand, and that her own children, nieces, and nephews all attended the CJA. Today, her great-niece and nephew are CJA students.
Jackie also has many proud moments as a member of Calgary’s Jewish community. She served on the CJA board for many years, including a term as President, and was also on the board of the Friends of CJA Trust. She has also served on the Board of Jewish Family Services Calgary and Beth Tzedec synagogue. Most recently, Jackie completed 12 years on the Board of the Calgary Jewish Community Foundation, showing that her journey serves not just her clients, but the broader community.