Ottawa University Appoints Garrick Apollon as Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for Common Law Section
In a move to foster innovation and entrepreneurial thinking among its students, the University of Ottawa has announced the appointment of Garrick Apollon as the new Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for the Common Law Section. This role is designed to cultivate a culture of creativity and problem-solving within the legal education landscape.
Apollon, a seasoned professional with a track record of championing equity and innovation, will oversee initiatives that empower law students to embrace entrepreneurial mindsets. A key focus of his work will be the Startup Law Clinic, a program that provides legal support to early-stage startups while offering students hands-on experience in navigating the complexities of business law.
“The legal profession is at a crossroads,” Apollon remarked. “As artificial intelligence and other technologies reshape the industry, lawyers must adopt entrepreneurial skills to remain relevant. Entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting a business—it’s about solving problems, leading with purpose, and driving meaningful change.”
Apollon’s vision aligns with a growing trend in legal education, where schools are increasingly recognizing the need to prepare students for a rapidly evolving professional landscape. By integrating entrepreneurial training into the curriculum, the University of Ottawa aims to equip its graduates with the tools to thrive in an era of technological and societal transformation.
Apollon brings a wealth of experience to his new role. At the University of Ottawa’s Professional Development Institute, he founded “At the Heart of Entrepreneurship,” a Black entrepreneurship initiative that has trained over 100 Black entrepreneurs in collaboration with a local NGO. This program reflects his commitment to equity and representation in the legal and business sectors.
What sets Apollon apart is his unique blend of legal expertise and creative vision. As the founder of CPE Studios, an edutainment production company, he has produced documentary films focused on professional development. His series, Lost Generation: A Call to Action, explores systemic challenges such as anti-Black racism in education and advocates for policy reforms to address these issues.
Looking ahead, Apollon plans to expand the reach of the Startup Law Clinic and develop a new course series on entrepreneurship. His approach to education emphasizes nurturing the passion and purpose of law students, helping them recognize their potential to contribute to meaningful change.
Garrick Apollon’s Vision for the Future of Legal Education
As the new Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Apollon is set to expand the Startup Law Clinic’s reach, offering more students the opportunity to engage with early-stage startups. This initiative will not only provide legal support to burgeoning businesses but also equip law students with practical experience in business law, preparing them for the challenges of a rapidly evolving professional landscape.
Apollon plans to introduce a new course series focused on entrepreneurship, designed to cultivate a deeper understanding of entrepreneurial principles among law students. This curriculum will emphasize the development of problem-solving skills, leadership, and the ability to drive meaningful change—essential qualities for future legal professionals navigating an era of technological transformation.
Complementing his academic initiatives, Apollon’s work in filmmaking further underscores his commitment to fostering professional development and addressing systemic issues. His documentary series, Lost Generation: A Call to Action, delves into challenges such as anti-Black racism in education, advocating for policy reforms that promote equity and representation. This series serves as a powerful tool for raising awareness and inspiring action, aligning with Apollon’s broader vision of creating a more just and inclusive society.
Through his multifaceted approach, Apollon aims to nurture the passion and purpose of law students, empowering them to recognize their potential to contribute to meaningful change. By integrating entrepreneurial training, practical experience, and a commitment to equity, he is paving the way for a new generation of legal professionals who are not only skilled in law but also equipped to lead and innovate in a world shaped by technological and societal advancements.
Conclusion
Garrick Apollon’s appointment as Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for the Common Law Section at the University of Ottawa marks a significant step forward in legal education. His vision to integrate entrepreneurial training, expand the Startup Law Clinic, and develop new course series underscores the university’s commitment to preparing law students for a rapidly changing world. By blending legal expertise with a creative approach, Apollon is not only fostering innovation but also championing equity and representation. His work, both within and outside academia, reflects a dedication to empowering the next generation of legal professionals to drive meaningful change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garrick Apollon’s role at the University of Ottawa?
Garrick Apollon is the Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for the Common Law Section, focusing on fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and innovation among law students.
What is the Startup Law Clinic?
The Startup Law Clinic provides legal support to early-stage startups while offering law students hands-on experience in business law, preparing them for the complexities of the legal and business landscape.
What initiatives has Garrick Apollon founded?
Apollon founded “At the Heart of Entrepreneurship,” a Black entrepreneurship initiative, and CPE Studios, an edutainment production company. His documentary series, Lost Generation: A Call to Action, addresses systemic challenges such as anti-Black racism in education.
What new courses is Apollon planning to introduce?
Apollon plans to introduce a new course series focused on entrepreneurship, emphasizing problem-solving skills, leadership, and driving meaningful change in the legal profession.
