Keshia Holloman-Dawson

Keshia Holloman-Dawson – an award-winning advocate who prides herself on her commitment to wellness, reconciliation, and inclusion – is a fourth-generation born and raised Calgarian, and Student-at-Law in the corporate energy sector.

In 2019, she graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Arts, Honours degree in Law & Society, completing a community-based research thesis focused on the lived experiences and story-telling of Indigenous women under the tutelage of Dr. Robert Henry. In 2022, she graduated from the University’s Faculty of Law and School of Public Policy with a Juris Doctor and Master of Public Policy, completing a thesis on energy sector regulation under the supervision of Dr. Jennifer Winter. She has worked in a number of settings including as a civilian policing coordinator in the Respectful Workplace Office and as a caseworker for people struggling with houselessness. She has dedicated her career to promoting community engagement and volunteerism, antidiscrimination, cultural understanding, and equitable inclusion.

A visionary leader and change-maker, Keshia has significant experience as a mentor and advocate for racialized and marginalized communities. During her time in law school, Keshia was the President of the UCalgary Chapter of the Black Law Students’ Association – a role she leveraged to generate scholarship, internship, and mentorship opportunities; coordinate antiracism training; and foster mental health initiatives. Most notably Keshia worked with Faculty leadership to create and implement the Black Student Admissions process, which has since seen a 900% increase in Black student representation at the law school (current to Fall 2022).

Keshia currently serves on the boards and committees of multiple organizations focused on inclusion and community development.