Karen Mccleave

Karen McCleave is an Ontario-based lawyer, board director, and community advocate. She dedicated over 30 years to public service and criminal justice. During her long career as an Assistant Crown Attorney, Karen built a reputation for legal acumen and judgment. With the Ministry of the Attorney General, Karen prosecuted many high-profile criminal cases while demonstrating an ethical and informed approach, always considering the public interest. Beyond her prosecutions, she was part of initiatives to make the judicial system more efficient, support crime victims, and mentor future legal professionals. She was then an advisor to a Senator and served five years on a committee making recommendations to the Attorney-General regarding the appointments of Justices of the Peace. Currently, Karen channels her experience and knowledge into broader community involvement, including executive governance and advisory positions. As a sought-after board director, she has served agencies such as the arts and youth mental health. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she helps to identify and navigate risk, implement and follow best governance practices in building long-term resilience through transparent leadership practices. In her work beyond the courtroom and boardroom, she is a passionate advocate for a myriad of causes, dedicating time and resources to such areas as mental health awareness, children’s programming and community safety. She believes that service to community betters not only our social fabric, but ourselves.