We are very proud to announce Krista Springstead: Winner of the Canadian Defence Lawyers 2024 Philippa G. Samworth Award for Advancement of Women in the Legal Profession.

The Philippa G. Samworth Award for Advancement of Women in the Legal Profession recognizes individuals for their distinguished service to women in Canada.  The award honours commitment to advocating the inclusion and promotion of women in the legal profession through activity that has a visible, tangible, or measurable impact on the perception of attitude toward, and respect for the treatment of women, and fostering women’s initiatives and promoting positive mentoring relationships with other women within the profession.  It awards the demonstrated leadership in the development of measures to fight gender discrimination and prejudice in the profession.

Krista received notable letters of support from Associate Justice Gillian Eckler, as well as from the award’s namesake Philippa Samworth.

“It is with the utmost appreciation that I humbly accept the Phillippa G. Samworth Award for the Advancement of Women in the Legal Profession. I am indebted to Philippa and all of the other women trailblazers who have confidently carved the path ahead for female litigators. I am very proud to be a woman in the legal profession and continue to be inspired by my peers, partners, colleagues and all of the amazing younger female talent. Is it with sincere gratitude that I thank the CDL and my partner and nominator, Louis Covens, for thinking me worthy of such a prestigious award.” – Krista Springstead