Great Concordian: Zoe Salzman, experienced trial attorney

Zoe Salzman, BA 03, broke new ground as the first lawyer in her family.

Born in Toronto and raised in Montreal, her parents, both film and television producers, were initially surprised by her choice of profession. Driven by her passion for law, she enrolled at Concordia’s Liberal Arts College, where she developed essential skills for her future career.

Today, Salzman is a partner at Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP in Manhattan, where she specializes in workplace discrimination and civil-rights cases.

The Great Concordian has made a significant impact. She has secured settlements for victims of police violence and systemic discrimination, and successfully litigated prominent #MeToo civil cases.

Salzman chose to attend New York University School of Law after she obtained her undergraduate degree, a decision that would significantly shape her career.

“What I loved about NYU was its commitment to public interest lawyering,” she told Concordia in 2023. “I knew that I wanted to use my law degree to work towards civil rights and social justice, and I felt like NYU — and New York, in general — would give me an incredible platform to do that.

Intense media attention is an occasional occupational hazard for Salzman these days, a natural outcome of litigating high-profile cases centered on socially significant issues. She approaches the added scrutiny with the same steadfast advocacy she applies in the courtroom, prioritizing her clients’ needs and showcasing deep expertise and unwavering dedication.

“I get to practice law in a way that I find intellectually challenging, interesting and rewarding,” says Salzman. “I feel incredibly fortunate.”

When you reflect on your time as a Concordia student, what stands out?

Zoe Salzman: It would have to be attending classes at the Liberal Arts College. The symposium-based learning program involved reading and then engaging in small group discussions and debates. There’s no better way to learn, and I have fond memories of those intellectually stimulating sessions with incredibly smart professors and students.

The campus was so vibrant and dynamic. There was the People’s Potato, there were various protests going on in support of social justice. It was a rich education both inside and outside of the classroom.

What are some of the factors that have enabled your success?

ZS: The critical thinking skills I honed at Concordia, particularly through the Liberal Arts College, laid the foundation for my career. As a lawyer, I use these skills daily to read case law, write, think critically and argue my points in court. The ability to think on my feet and articulate arguments effectively, which I developed during those classes, has been invaluable. Concordia provided a solid groundwork for becoming a litigator who argues and advocates in court.

What advice do you have for students who may want to follow in your footsteps?

ZS: There’s no single path to success, and my journey wasn’t a straight line. It’s important to understand that each path is individual. I remember wanting a clear set of steps to follow, but the reality is more complex and, ultimately, empowering.

You must be willing to try different things, correct your course and find the right fit for you. Many of my law school classmates chose big commercial firms, but I intentionally pursued a different path that I found more fulfilling. Having the courage to go your own way and the confidence to make intentional choices is crucial.

How does it feel to be a Great Concordian?

ZS: I’m incredibly humbled and honoured. I never imagined being chosen for such an honour when I was a student. Reflecting on the incredible professors and students I had the privilege of knowing at Concordia, I’m genuinely shocked and grateful to be among the selected few. Concordia will always hold a special place in my heart, and it’s a privilege to be part of its 50th-anniversary celebration.