News

Congratulations to Schulich School of Law employee Adam Guzkowski, who was named the recipient of the 2025 Dalhousie Professional and Managerial Group (DPMG) Outstanding Achievement Award (Early Career) at the annual DPMG conference on June 4, 2025. They will receive their award at a reception hosted by Dalhousie University President and former Schulich Law Dean, Kim Brooks, on June 24.

When crafting their nomination package, Associate Professor and Associate Dean (Academic) Jodi Lazare shared that she is continually stunned by their work, and that ‘outstanding’ is the only word that can be used to describe it.

As the Assistant Dean, Student and Academic Affairs, Guzkowski oversees the day-to-day operations of the Associate Dean (Academic)’s Office, as well as the supports provided to students, including academic advising, registration, orientation, Wellness @ Weldon, and more.

“Their role is challenging,” she explains. “Adam meets with students in their most difficult times – when they are struggling, ill, grieving, caregiving, etc. – and unfailingly does so with grace and compassion.” And while they are sometimes the bearer of bad academic news, Lazare says that they bring the same kindness, patience, and offers of support to those difficult conversations.

Guzkowski’s impact goes beyond simply the job they hold. “They are a great supervisor and leader; they celebrate people’s accomplishments and create a real sense of camaraderie on our team,” she adds. “They foster collaboration, communication, and cooperation with colleagues across the university. Indeed, in their short time here, they have managed to rebuild relationships with stakeholders across campus, such that members of other units now reach out to us about their programming.”

Schulich Law Associate Professor and Associate Dean (Research) Jamie Baxter was eager to support Guzkowski’s nomination, conveying the huge respect and the deep appreciation he has for their contributions to the Weldon and Dalhousie communities. “I think of Adam as a true beacon in our community: someone who radiates positivity and compassion; who illuminates creative solutions to hard problems with kindness and wisdom; and who is unafraid to shine a critical light on problems and systemic failures while always being ready with a thoughtful response to show the way toward new possibilities,” he says. “The DPMG Early Career Award would be a wonderful way to recognize all of Adam’s exceptional work.”

Guzkowski was honoured to be recognized in this way, noting, “Truly, I share this award with the amazing team in the Office of the Associate Dean (Academic) and the Schulich School of Law community more broadly. I am remarkably fortunate to engage daily with brilliant and dedicated students, staff, and faculty.”