In 1996, the establishment of JURIST by Professor Bernard Hibbitts marked the beginning of a transformative journey in the realm of online legal news. Originally conceived as a digital repository for legal scholarship, JURIST has grown to become a significant player in disseminating legal news worldwide, thanks to Hibbitts’ innovative leadership. Under his guidance, JURIST pioneered a model that empowered law students to take on the mantle of reporters and editors. This not only provided a unique educational experience but also ensured a steady stream of insightful legal journalism that reached millions globally.
Hibbitts’ vision for JURIST emphasized bridging the divide between academia and public understanding of law. By doing so, he fostered greater transparency and an appreciation for the values of rule-of-law issues. His tenure, which spanned nearly three decades, will conclude with his retirement in December 2024. However, the legacy he leaves behind is enduring, with JURIST remaining a steadfast platform committed to the ideals he cherished.
To celebrate Hibbitts’ contributions, a festschrift, a traditional collection of scholarly essays in honor of a respected academic, is being compiled. This digital homage will continue to grow with regular submissions and will be permanently archived within JURIST’s website, serving as a dynamic tribute to his impact on legal journalism and education.
A story from Heidi J.T. Exner, now the founding partner of Ethical Edge PI & Corporate Advisors, illustrates the personal impact that Hibbitts has had on individuals involved with JURIST. Exner recounts her early days with JURIST as a University of Calgary law student, describing the remarkable opportunity she had to work under Hibbitts’ mentorship. A tale that exemplifies Hibbitts’ character is his personal involvement in aiding a JURIST-affiliated law student who fled Afghanistan, an initiative he championed together with Dr. Ian Holloway, former Dean at U. Calgary Law.
Hibbitts’ legacy is not just in the structures he helped build, but in the deep human connections and empowered professionals he leaves behind. Those who had the privilege of working with him, deeply appreciate his vision and the open-minded perspective he brought to the legal profession and journalism. As Exner aptly notes, “Thank you, BJH, for being a friend, mentor, and inspiration. You will be missed dearly.”