Jennifer Bankier, professor of law at Dalhousie University, is the recipient of the 2003 Sarah Shorten Award. The award, presented by CAUT Council on Nov. 22, recognizes outstanding achievement in promoting the advancement of women in Canadian universities.

Bankier, nationally recognized for her dedication to academic freedom and universal equality, has been actively involved in the Dalhousie Faculty Association for the past 20 years, including serving two terms as president. In addition, she served two successive terms as chair of CAUT's Status of Women Committee, and as treasurer and vice-president of the Nova Scotia Confederation of University Faculty Associations.

Bankier was cited for her commitment to the cause of eliminating discrimination within Canadian universities and society at large, for her scholarly writing for law journals and other publications, and for her influence over a generation of law students who have become more knowledgeable of equity concerns.

"This award represents much more than an acknowledgement of Dr. Bankier's legacy of leadership in equality issues," said Edith Zorychta, former chair of CAUT's Status of Women Committee. "It also signifies the exceptional contribution she's made as a scholar, educator and an effective and influential mentor and catalyst for change. She leads with passion and clarity of purpose, and understands that the way to achieve an inclusive society is to educate, challenge and inspire our colleagues."

The national award is named after the late Sarah Shorten, who served for three years in the 1980s as vice-president and president of CAUT.

Bankier joins 12 other distinguished women who have received this award since its inception in 1990.