Jon Conlin (VC'03)

Jon Conlin (VC’03), former BC High School defensive MVP and NCAA football player for the Washington State Cougars, is a corporate/commercial lawyer at Fasken. He advises companies, including venture capitalists and startups, in the medical, hospitality, and tech sectors.

What was your journey like after VC?

After I graduated from VC, I was lucky enough to receive a number of football scholarship offers.  I committed to play at Washington State University, which had just come off a very successful season and a Rose Bowl appearance.  Unfortunately, I got a number of injuries early in my college career and started shifting my focus from sports to what my next career would be.  I became interested in going to law school and went to UBC Law after coming home.

Why business law?

Generally my introduction to the law came from my grandfather, who was a Supreme Court Judge in British Columbia.  For me personally, I love working with entrepreneurs in a variety of industries.  It's inspiring to work with women and men that are throwing everything they have into making their business a success – one day I will be working with a medical device company, the next day I will be working with a gaming client that makes a popular game on your smartphone.  Oftentimes we are engaged to assist companies when they are being sold and is very intense and transformative for our clients.

What are you passionate about?

I'm passionate about being a great husband and father to my two young daughters.  For me, family is first.  I'm also passionate about helping our clients achieve their goals and grow their businesses.

What is your fondest memory of Vancouver College?

I cherish the memories I have of playing basketball, football and track and field with my friends – many of whom remain my closest friends to this day.  Winning the Archbishop's Cup or multiple track championships are great milestones to remember, but more valuable were the times just hanging out before/after practice or on the weekends with my buddies.

What would you like to say to our graduating seniors and young alumni?

Work as hard as you can in whatever it is they are doing at that time.  That said, be open-minded and embrace opportunities.  Career paths will be presented to you that may change your life and it might not be obvious at the time, so pay attention.  Be confident that you are leaving Vancouver College to enter a very supportive VC Alumni network – it will serve as a resource to you in whatever you do in the future.  Most of all have fun, the years go by really quickly, and it's important to take a step back and be thankful for the blessings that you have.