Calgary grad takes the reins as Stampede’s new boss

Michael Casey, QC, Law ’72

Prominent Alberta lawyer Michael Casey, QC, Law ’72, was recently elected President and Chairman of the Board of the Calgary Stampede for a two-year term.

“It’s very exciting,” says Casey, a senior partner at Field Law in Calgary. “I’ve been a volunteer with the Stampede for decades, and I’m humbled to take on this leadership role—particularly as we prepare for centennial celebrations in 2012.”

Casey, who joined the Stampede’s board in 1997, has nearly 40 years of experience in civil litigation and dispute resolution, primarily with insurance, construction and employment matters. He was recognized in the Best Lawyers in Canada guide for 2011 and as a 2010 Lexpert Leading Lawyer. A former President of the Canadian Bar Association - Alberta Branch (1988-89), he also served in many volunteer positions, including President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the Calgary Grey Cup committee.

“Mike has been a valued volunteer with our organization since 1975,” says Vern Kimball, CEO of the Calgary Stampede. “Being involved in the community has always been important to him. He has volunteered in leadership roles for a broad range of organizations. We are privileged to have someone of his stature as our president and chairman.”

Casey says the “top-quality law education” he gained at Queen’s provided the foundation for his successful practice and continues to inform his work. “I had classmates from across the country, which taught me the value of building friendships and relationships. This is something from Queen’s that I’ve taken into my practice—and into my role with the Stampede.”

Relationship-building is crucial to his role as the Stampede’s new ambassador. Casey has already hosted numerous senior management team meetings and fundraising events, made television appearances, given presentations to myriad business leaders and tourism officials, and visited rodeos in Houston and San Antonio, Texas.

And while it’s too early to know specifics about plans for the centennial, scheduled for July 6 to 15, 2012, Casey says the board’s goal is crystal clear. “We plan to reposition the Stampede for the next 100 years, to expand our appeal internationally—and to do something Calgary will be very proud of.”

To follow Mike Casey’s Stampede adventures, see his blog at www.fieldlaw.com/blogs/stampede