Feb. 23, 2023
Instructor, alumna win distinguished service awards
![Lisa Silver accepting Markham Silver's award posthumously](/news/sites/default/files/styles/ucws_news_side_by_side_hero/public/2023-02/Markham%20award.jpg?h=fb8544aa&itok=STbLh_Hw)
The Canadian Bar Association - Alberta Branch and the Law Society of Alberta held its annual Distinguished Service Awards celebration on February 22, 2023. These prestigious awards shine a light on the outstanding contributions Alberta lawyers provide across five categories.
Sessional instructor Markham Silver, QC was recognized posthumously for his service to the community. He left a legacy of collegiality, mentorship, and dedication to improving the practice of criminal law that cannot be understated. In addition to his busy practice, Markham was a sessional instructor at UCalgary Law, active member of the Calgary Criminal Defence Lawyers Association, and long-time co-chair of the CBA Alberta Criminal Justice Section. He was also a dedicated volunteer for the Jewish and arts communities in Calgary.
In a tweet, Markham's spouse, Professor Lisa Silver challenged us all "to give back to the profession by saying “yes” when called on to help others."
![Patricia Blocksom](/news/sites/default/files/styles/ucws_image_1_1_desktop/public/2023-02/Pat_005_Profile-1.jpg?h=8e1608be&itok=kTu6s3ZB)
Alumna Patricia Blocksom, KC, LLB'82 was recognized for her service in promoting equity, diversity and inclusion. Patricia has been a champion for gender equality, diversity and inclusion in Alberta’s legal profession for nearly 40 years. Since 1990, Pat has been a partner at her firm of Dunphy Best Blocksom in Calgary, where she practices exclusively in family law. She has a long history of championing women within the legal profession and her broader community, acting regularly as a presenter on the rights of women, and volunteering for organizations that further equality for women in Canada and abroad.