Faculty Spotlight: Asfrah Syed-Emond

Asfrah, Paralegal professor female smiling in coffee shopMeet Asfrah Syed-Emond, a dedicated member of the Legal Department, School of Business and Hospitality. Asfrah teaches and coordinates placements in the Paralegal and Law Clerk programs.

Asfrah discovered her passion for teaching at AC a decade ago, first as a part‑time professor, and recently celebrated eight years in a full‑time role. She co‑leads A.C.T.I.O.N. (All Cultures Together in One Network), reflecting her commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive learning environments for her students.

With over 10 years of experience in higher education and 26 years in private practice, Asfrah specializes in teaching good advocacy and negotiation skills. She brings real world cases into her classroom to support active learning. Asfrah holds a B.A. (Honours) in English Literature and an LL.B. from the University of Ottawa, and is a member of the Law Society of Ontario.

Asfrah remains deeply engaged with Ottawa’s legal community, mentoring graduates and contributing to key local initiatives. She stays connected with local paralegals and lawyers through volunteer work, including hosting the 2025 Paralegal Spring Conference at the College. She‘s participated in the Faculty-Industry Co-Mentorship (FICM) Project, and consistently offers her support to projects that strengthen legal education and professional development.

Outside the College, Asfrah is an avid traveler who has toured over 20 countries. Raised in Quebec by first generation immigrants from Kenya, Asfrah speaks four languages and is currently learning a fifth! Her creative interests include painting and writing, and on weekends you will often find her helping her husband set up his stall to sell his cutting boards at the Ottawa Farmers’ Market in Westboro and Lansdowne Park. She is a proud supporter all things LOCAL!

Advice for New Students: Remember that your classmates are your future colleagues in the profession! Your reputation starts right here within the corridors of AC. Remember to be kind, helpful and respectful.