Like a true visionary, Kristen Fogg is already looking ahead to the next generation. Fogg is completing her second year in the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Law. After completing her first year of law school, Fogg received an award which inspired her to give back herself. Fogg has named the University of Manitoba as a beneficiary of part of her life insurance policy, specifying that the proceeds will establish a scholarship for law students. Thanks to her, qualifying future students will be rewarded and encouraged for academic achievements.

Besides school work, what keeps you close to the University of Manitoba?

Getting involved and connecting with students in similar circumstances. When I was doing my undergraduate work, I was selected to be part of University 1’s Mature Advisory Committee under the direction of Wendy McLean. The committee helped me to have a sense of community within the university, since I was taking all of my courses by Distance Education. Recently, three of us who were the original members of that committee have formed a new student group on campus – the University of Manitoba Mature Students’ Association (UMMSA). We are committed to enriching the mature student experience.

What was your favourite class at the University of Manitoba?

Probably the most life-altering course I have taken at the University of Manitoba was a night class, “Business Law”, offered through Extended Education.  My instructor was a practicing lawyer, Tim Fultz.  He was the first person who encouraged me to consider attending law school.  Little did I know how my life would change!  I am so grateful to him.

Is there a particular instructor you have enjoyed?

I have greatly enjoyed my classes taught in the Faculty of Law by Professor John Irvine. He has a delightful sense of humour, great warmth and humanity, and passion for the law.  He is the consummate story-teller. Professor Irvine has touched the lives of the vast majority of the members of the legal profession in the province. All of us who leave his classroom are better for having learned from him.

Which living person do you most admire?

I feel like this is the Academy Awards. I can’t name just one person, but if I start to list everyone then I will forget someone! So I will say this – I am very fortunate to have family, friends, colleagues, and mentors in my life who each have qualities that I admire. They have shared their values and knowledge with me. Each of them in their own way has contributed to my personal, spiritual, academic, and professional growth. If they read this, I would like to express to each of them my deep appreciation.

What do you dislike the most?

Apathy. I love to see people who do good things with great passion.

What’s your view on philanthropy?

Philanthropy is the obligation each of us has to show our appreciation for the opportunities we have received.  We can all share something of ourselves – time, knowledge, encouragement, compassion, hope – with those around us.

What is your proudest moment?

Rudyard Kipling said that triumph and disaster are both imposters. Success and failure are very fleeting.  My proudest moments have been when I feel that I have done something to the best of my ability.

When are you the most happy?

I love to travel. The best feeling in the world is the second that you realize the wheels of the plane are off the ground.

What is your favourite pastime?

Seriously?! Between an exciting job, school, and volunteer work – my time is committed! However, I love to play the piano. I like to spend quality time with my Persian kitten, Fred. I can often be found at a Starbuck’s with my Mom, a good friend, or a good textbook.

What is your favourite saying?

“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face…we must do that which we think we cannot.” - Eleanor Roosevelt