The Alberta Law Foundation is pleased to welcome two new Directors to our board as of May 11, 2023 – Sharon Buckley-Tkach and Dawn-Lyn Blake. This month we would like to highlight Sharon Buckley-Tkach. Stay tuned for a profile on Dawn-Lyn in our summer newsletter.

Sharon received her law degree at the University of Alberta and began her legal career in private practice in Edmonton at Nickerson Roberts Holinski & Mercer. In 2009, she began her career with the provincial government and has been legal counsel for the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee for the last 14 years. Before becoming a lawyer, Sharon had a brief career as a journalist, including working the forest fire beat in Slave Lake and working a late-night news desk at an Edmonton radio station.

Over the years, Sharon has volunteered with inner-city organizations and, in her professional capacity, provides legal advice to clients who work with some of the most marginalized Albertans. She is currently a board member of the Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation (CEASE) and is a past board member of Homeward Trust Edmonton and Prostitution Awareness and Action Foundation (PAAFE).

Sharon has always committed her volunteer time and energy to organizations that assist people who often feel powerless in some way (whether through mental health or disabilities, addictions, or poverty) and who may not have access to services for various reasons. Sharon was drawn to the work that the Alberta Law Foundation does as the vision of accessible justice for all Albertans aligns with her personal views of ensuring legal assistance to those who face barriers.

Born in Dublin, Ireland, Sharon immigrated with her family to Edmonton as a child. She enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter and friends. She enjoys travelling to new destinations and is an avid ‘foodie’ who is always willing to try new foods and restaurants.  Sharon is looking forward to contributing to the Foundation’s work.