Dean’s Blog September 2025
As we welcome fall, the energy on campus is unmistakable. New students have arrived, returning students have settled in, and the Faculty of Medicine is diving into a new academic year. I trust everyone had a fantastic summer.
This September marks a historic milestone for Dalhousie Medical School: the opening of the Cape Breton Medical Campus in Sydney, Nova Scotia in partnership with Cape Breton University. For the first time, students have begun their studies at this new campus, which is uniquely focused on family medicine training and rural health. The campus represents a bold step forward in our commitment to serving communities across Nova Scotia and beyond, and we are thrilled to welcome our inaugural cohort to Cape Breton.
On August 24, we held the annual Dean’s Welcome Ceremony in Halifax to welcome our first-year med students to Dalhousie Medical School and to the practice of medicine. With the addition of our CBMC students, the Class of 2029, with 177 students, is the largest-ever class of talented and motivated students in the over 150-year history of Dalhousie Medical School, at a time when the need for physicians has never been greater in our region or country. It was wonderful to meet some of our incoming students and their family and friends.
I would also like to acknowledge our new postgraduate and graduate students across the Maritimes. It’s wonderful to see so many exceptional and bright minds choosing the Faculty of Medicine.
A warm Dalhousie welcome to new students in all programs, and welcome back to our returning students. We look forward to working with you and can’t wait to see what great things you will accomplish in the future.
And while this season brings much excitement, we also acknowledge the challenges our community has faced during the Dalhousie Faculty Association lockout and strike. We’re deeply grateful for the resilience shown by our colleagues and students throughout this time. Now that the strike has ended, we are so glad to welcome our DFA colleagues back and to move forward together in our shared commitment to academic excellence and student success.
You’re invited: Dal Med Gala
I am delighted to invite you to the 2025 Dal Med Gala on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Halifax Convention Centre.
The Gala is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni, while reconnecting with friends and colleagues. This year, we are especially excited to welcome our medical learners to join us for an evening of connection, recognition, and celebration.
Tables can be purchased directly, or you can arrange a journal entry. Please contact Emily Brown at emily.brown5@dal.ca for assistance.
Accommodations: A room block is available at Sutton Place Hotel until September 30 (use code 2510DALMED when booking).
Additionally, I would also like to let medical learners, staff, faculty and alumni know about the Fun Run or Walk that kicks off the Gala Weekend that Saturday morning at 9 a.m. More information below:
Fun Run: Kick Off Gala Weekend!
Join us for a lighthearted run/walk earlier that morning.
Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Start Time: 9:30 a.m.
Distance: 3 or 5 km
Location: Tupper Foyer, 5850 College Street
Support options: Donate to the Healthy Tomorrow Foundation or bring a food donation for Feed Nova Scotia.
I hope to see many of you there as we celebrate the strength and impact of our medical community.
Dr. W. Ford Doolittle appointed a Companion of the Order of Canada
Dr. W. Ford Doolittle, professor emeritus at Dalhousie University, has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Canada, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours. Originally from the U.S., Dr. Doolittle has spent over five decades in Nova Scotia, where his pioneering work in evolutionary biology has reshaped our understanding of DNA and genome evolution. Celebrated for his bold theories on gene-swapping and the “selfish” nature of DNA, he also led Canada’s global leadership in early cell and genome evolution through his directorship at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research. His appointment recognizes not only his groundbreaking research but also his mentorship and enduring contributions to Canadian science. Congratulations, Dr. Doolittle!
Read more here.
Dr. Finlay Maguire elected to the Royal Society of Canada College of the New Scholars, Scholars, and Scientists.
Dr. Finlay Maguire, assistant professor in the Departments of Computer Science and Community Health & Epidemiology at Dalhousie and Pathogenomics Lead at Toronto’s Shared Hospital Laboratory, has been elected to the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists. This prestigious honour recognizes mid-career leaders whose work is shaping the future of science and society. A leading expert in genomic epidemiology and data science, Dr. Maguire has played a pivotal role in national and international responses to public health emergencies, including SARS-CoV-2, avian influenza, and antimicrobial resistance, translating genomic insights into clinical decision-making and global public health practice.
Dr. Maguire will be formally inducted at a ceremony on Nov. 14, 2025, in Montréal, Québec.
Read more here.
Dr. Jean Gray named Discovery Awards 2025 Hall of Fame Inductee
We are thrilled to congratulate Dr. Jean Gray, professor emeritus, medical education, medicine, and pharmacology at Dalhousie, on being named the Discovery Awards 2025 Hall of Fame Inductee. A trailblazing physician, educator, and policy leader, Dr. Gray has profoundly shaped clinical practice in Canada and beyond. Her leadership as Editor-in-Chief of Therapeutic Choices, Chair of the Canadian Cochrane Advisory Board, and founding influence in the CIHR Institute of Gender and Health has advanced evidence-based medicine and championed women’s health. Her many accolades, including the Order of Canada and multiple honorary degrees, reflect a career dedicated to improving health care and mentoring the next generation of medical leaders. She will be formally recognized at the 23rd Annual Discovery Awards this November.
Read more here.
Dr. Andre Bernard named new chair of Canadian Medical Association
Dr. André Bernard, an anesthesiologist and deputy head of the Department of Anethesia, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine at Dalhousie and Central Zone Nova Scotia Health has been appointed chair of the CMA Board of Directors, effective August 21, for a three-year term. A nationally respected health system leader, Dr. Bernard is an associate professor and senate member here at Dalhousie. He brings extensive governance experience from roles with Doctors Nova Scotia, the Medical Society of PEI, and the CMA Governance Committee, as well as international leadership through the World Medical Association. Committed to equity, mentorship, and health system improvement, he holds board training from the Rotman School of Management and a Master’s in Health Policy from the London School of Economics. As chair, he will oversee CMA governance while CMA Presidents engage externally, guiding the organization’s strategic direction and efforts to rebuild health care.
Read more here.
Dr. Shawn Xiong selected for prestigious international research seminar
Dr. Shawn Xiong, a celebrated instructor at the Faculty of Medicine, has been selected to participate in the prestigious 2025-2027 research seminar on Learning on Location: Place-Based Pedagogies in Higher Education, sponsored by Elon University’s Center for Engaged Learning. This international seminar, which received applications from 24 institutions across three countries, will allow Dr. Xiong to conduct multi-institutional research on innovative pedagogies that connect students with their local communities and environments. Dr. Xiong’s participation in this seminar highlights his commitment to teaching excellence and his interest in exploring place-based learning through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly in laboratory and clinic-based settings.
Dr. Lori Wozney receives CIHR funding
The Government of Canada has announced over $30 million in funding to strengthen youth mental health services through the Integrated Youth Services Network of Networks (IYS-Net). Among the recipients is Dr. Lori Wozney, whose project, GROUND – IY NS, will enhance data capacity and literacy across the IYS-NS network. Her work focuses on empowering youth service sites to navigate data ecosystems, improve ethical data use, and build infrastructure to support participation in a pan-Canadian data platform. This initiative is a critical step toward improving outcomes for youth aged 12 to 25, particularly Indigenous youth, by making services more accessible, coordinated, and responsive to their needs.
Read more here.
Biomedical engineering student wins local Falling Walls competition
Annika Benson, a PhD student in Biomedical Engineering here at Dalhousie, has been named the winner of the 2025 Falling Walls Lab Atlantic Canada competition, hosted by Mount Saint Vincent University. Her compelling pitch, Breaking the Wall of Brain Cancer Treatment, introduced a miniature, high-resolution, tracked ultrasound probe designed to improve neurosurgical guidance and patient outcomes. Annika will represent Atlantic Canada at the global finale in Berlin this November, where she’ll showcase her breakthrough innovation on the world stage.
Read more here.
Med student Jeremiah Philips receives CMHF Award
Congratulations to third-year medical student, Jeremiah Philips, who was announced as a recipient of the 2025 Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF) Student Award in August. The award is given to emerging health leaders and innovators who demonstrate the qualities of CMHF Laureates: perseverance, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit. Each awardee receives a $5,000 cash prize and a travel subsidy to attend the 2026 Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Calgary, Alberta. Here, they will have the chance to meet CMHF Laureates and engage with health leaders from across the nation. Jeremiah is passionate about using technology to advance equity in healthcare and education. He co-founded the nonprofit Vision For Life and the ed-tech startup Clarify Student Resources, and launched Dalhousie’s HealthTech Innovation in Medicine group to promote hands-on learning in medical technology.
Learn more here.
Medical student recognized by AACUSS
We are delighted to share that medical student Eshan Arora has been honoured with the Student Leadership Award by the Atlantic Association of College & University Student Services (AACUSS) at their 50th Anniversary Conference. Eshan is the first medical student ever to receive this award, which celebrates student leaders who demonstrate a deep commitment to equity, engagement, and community-building.
As a proud member of the Dalhousie Science Scholars & Leaders Program (DSSLP), Eshan has been a vocal advocate for underrepresented-minority students in STEMM. His leadership has extended across campus through his roles as class co-president of Dal Med Nova Scotia (DMNS) and as a student representative on both the Board of Governors and Senate. He has also contributed to institutional policy reform, supported the creation of new student awards, and championed initiatives to improve student well-being, including advocating for sun lamps in tutorial rooms to help combat seasonal depression.
This award is a celebration of Eshan’s individual achievements and a reflection of the collective work of DSSLP and the broader Dalhousie community in creating inclusive, empowering spaces for students to thrive.
Congratulations, Eshan!
Brittany DeYoung presented with DPMG Award
Brittany DeYoung has been awarded the 2025 DPMG Outstanding Achievement Award: Mid-Career.
Brittany, Finance Manager in the Department of Family Medicine is recognized for her work to transform how the department handles finances across all three Maritime provinces including innovative cost-sharing models and navigation of tough negotiations, resulting in sustainable funding for critical programs.
Known for her calm, practical approach, Brittany is a go-to advisor for faculty leadership.
Read more here.
Medical faculty receive Dalhousie research awards
In July Dalhousie University announced the 2025 recipients of its most prestigious internal research honours, recognizing excellence, impact, and emerging talent across disciplines. Among the honourees from the Faculty of Medicine are Dr. Andrew Roger (Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology), named a Distinguished Research Professor for his pioneering work in evolutionary molecular biology; Dr. Penny Corkum (cross-appointed to the Department of Psychiatry), also named a Distinguished Research Professor for her internationally recognized research in pediatric sleep and ADHD; Dr. Ejemai Eboreime (Department of Psychiatry), recipient of the President’s Research Excellence Award – Emerging Investigator for his equity-focused mental health research; and Dr. Alexa Yakubovich (Department of Community Health and Epidemiology), also recognized as an Emerging Investigator for her impactful work on preventing gender-based violence and strengthening health system responses across Canada. Congratulations to all the recipients on this tremendous honour.
Read more here.
Dr. Vincent Agyapong awarded M. Andrew Padmos International Collaboration Award
Dr. Vincent Agyapong, head of the Department of Psychiatry and chief of psychiatry for Nova Scotia Health’s Central Zone, has been named the recipient of the 2025 M. Andrew Padmos International Collaboration Award. Presented by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, this award recognizes exceptional leadership in advancing postgraduate medical education and residency training outside Canada. Dr. Agyapong is recognized for his outstanding contributions to psychiatry education, particularly in Ghana, where his work has strengthened international collaborations and supported the Royal College’s vision to improve health care for all. He’ll be presented with the award at a ceremony in Ottawa in October.
Read more here.
Dr. Ian Epstein appointed Associate Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education (UGME)
I’m pleased to share that Dr. Ian Epstein was appointed associate dean, undergraduate medical education (UGME), for a five-year term, effective July 1, 2025.
Dr. Epstein, who is an associate professor in digestive care & endoscopy at Dalhousie, completed his medical and specialty training here at Dalhousie and has been a faculty member since 2009.
He led Dalhousie’s internal medicine residency program for a decade, gaining national recognition for his work in CaRMS and competency-based medical education. He currently serves as chair-elect of the Internal Medicine Specialty Committee at the Royal College and has contributed to accreditation and assessment as an examiner and surveyor. He also co-chaired the Latin American Conference on Residency Education in Chile.
Since 2022, Dr. Epstein has served as assistant dean of professional affairs, focusing on safe learning environments in undergraduate medical education. His contributions have earned him multiple awards, including recognition from the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association and Crohn’s & Colitis Canada.
In his new role, he will oversee UGME strategy, curriculum, student assessment, faculty support, and coordination with health authorities. This appointment also marks the conclusion of Dr. Evelyn Sutton’s outstanding 10-year tenure as associate dean.
Dr. Katherine Stringer Reappointed Head, Department of Family Medicine
I am pleased to share that Dr. Katherine Stringer was reappointed as head, Department of Family Medicine, for a second five-year term, effective July 1, 2025.
Dr. Stringer, a family physician and educator originally from South Africa, holds multiple postgraduate diplomas and earned her Canadian certification in family medicine in 2005, followed by a fellowship and a master’s in clinical science from Western University in 2016. She joined Dalhousie in 2020 after serving as chair of family medicine at Memorial University and was promoted to full professor in 2021.
Under her leadership, the department has expanded training clinics in Spryfield and Mumford, launched Indigenous-focused teaching in partnership with the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre, and helped develop the new Cape Breton medical campus focused on rural health. Residency positions and training sites have grown across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, including a new integrated family and emergency medicine program in Sydney. The department has also achieved full residency match rates for four consecutive years.
Dr. Stringer remains active in clinical practice, with interests in elder care and primary care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her scholarly focus includes rural medical education, CBME, and interprofessional learning.
Dr. Janice Chisholm Reappointed Head, Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine
I am pleased to share Dr. Janice Chisholm was reappointed head of the Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine, effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Chisholm, a native of Pictou County, Nova Scotia, earned her MD from Dalhousie and completing a critical care fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh, joining Dalhousie’s faculty in 2007. She has held multiple leadership roles, including residency program director and site chief at the Victoria General, and served as Dalhousie’s CBME lead.
As department head, she has guided the team through the COVID-19 pandemic and launched a strategic plan focused on patient outcomes, wellness, EDIA, and education. Her tenure has seen the appointment of wellness and EDIA directors, major clinical expansions, and the largest recruitment campaign in the department’s history. She also led innovations in education and research, including the Pain and Addictions Albro Lake clinic.
Looking ahead, Dr. Chisholm plans to expand residency training, strengthen distributed education in New Brunswick, and grow research capacity. She will continue advancing EDIA and wellness, support clinical modernization, and advocate for space in redevelopment projects at NSH and the IWK.
Dr. James Fawcett appointed Scientific Director, Brain Repair Centre
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. James Fawcett as the scientific director of the Brain Repair Centre, for a three-year term, effective July 1, 2025.
Dr. Fawcett, a professor in Dalhousie’s Departments of Pharmacology and Surgery, completed his PhD in neuroscience at McGill and postdoctoral training at the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, before joining Dalhousie’s Faculty of Medicine in 2006. He held a Tier II Canada Research Chair in Brain Repair for a decade and has received multiple awards, including the EJLB Foundation Scholar and Dalhousie’s Excellence in Research Mentorship Award.
His research focuses on brain and nervous system development, particularly how cells organize and communicate, advancing understanding of conditions like anxiety, memory loss, and movement disorders. He’s widely published and known for mentoring future leaders in science and medicine.
Dr. Fawcett has served on numerous advisory committees shaping neuroscience and biomedical research across Canada. As BRC director, he will lead strategic development, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and oversee operations, partnerships, and commercialization efforts.
This appointment also recognizes the exceptional leadership of Dr. Victor Rafuse, who served as BRC’s scientific director for the past 12 years.
Dr. Melissa Andrew appointed the Kathryn Allen Weldon Chair in Alzheimer Research
I am pleased to announce that Dr. Melissa Andrew was appointed as the Kathryn Allen Weldon Chair in Alzheimer Research for a five-year term, effective July 1, 2025.
Dr. Andrew, a professor of medicine and geriatric medicine at Dalhousie, is a nationally and internationally recognized leader in dementia research. She holds an MSc in public health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and an interdisciplinary PhD, alongside her MD and fellowship training in geriatric medicine, all completed at Dalhousie.
Her research has advanced understanding of frailty, social vulnerability, and dementia, with leadership roles in major national initiatives like the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA) and the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN). She’s received multiple awards, including the Dr. Janet McElhaney Mid-Career Research Award and the Ronald Cape Distinguished Service Award.
Dr. Andrew is also deeply committed to mentorship, education, and community engagement, having supervised numerous trainees and served with organizations such as the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia and the National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
As Chair, she will lead multidisciplinary research to improve dementia care, foster academic and community partnerships, and advance education and public awareness.
Dr. William Baldridge Appointed Interim Head, Department of Medical Neuroscience
I am pleased to share that Dr. William (Bill) Baldridge has been appointed interim head of the Department of Medical Neuroscience.
Dr. Baldridge, professor in the Departments of Medical Neuroscience and Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences at Dalhousie, has been a faculty member at Dalhousie since 1998. He co-founded the Retina and Optic Nerve Research Laboratory and was promoted to professor in 2007. He previously served as department head from 2012 to 2022.
His research focuses on how the retina processes visual information, particularly imaging activity in retinal ganglion cells. A dedicated educator, he teaches neuroanatomy to medical and dentistry students and was honored with the Silver Shovel Award by the medical class of 2024.
As department head, Dr. Baldridge will lead planning, development, and operations to support excellence in research, teaching, and administration. He will represent the department across the university and broader community, advancing Dalhousie’s academic mission.
This appointment also acknowledges the leadership of Dr. Victor Rafuse, who served as department head from 2022 to 2025.
Dr. Anna MacLeod appointed Assistant Dean, Student Affairs (DMNS)
I pleased to announce that Dr. Anna MacLeod has been appointed assistant dean, student affairs at Dalhousie Medicine Nova Scotia (DMNS), for a five-year term, effective Sept. 1, 2025.
Dr. MacLeod, professor and director of education research in continuing professional development and medical education, completed her PhD in education at the University of South Australia and a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Collaborating Centre for Determinants of Health before joining Dalhousie’s Faculty of Medicine in 2010.
Internationally recognized as a leading critical scholar in medical education, Dr. MacLeod’s research, supported by over a decade of Tri-Council funding, explores simulation-based learning, student well-being, grief, and equity in medical education. She has received numerous awards, including election to the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars and a FAMEE fellowship. Most recently, she and her colleagues earned Dalhousie’s 2025 Academic Innovation Award for their work on the Clinical Cadaver Program.
As unit head of the Research in Medicine (RIM) program, she transformed it into a more learner-centered initiative. In her new role, Dr. MacLeod will support medical students across Med 1–5 in areas such as wellness, career planning, and academic development, while collaborating on initiatives across Dalhousie Medicine Nova Scotia and clerkship sites.
This appointment also recognizes the contributions of Dr. Suzanne Zinck, whose leadership over the past five years has left a lasting impact on student well-being and inclusive education.
Dr. Victoria Price appointed Head, Department of Pediatrics
I am pleased to announce that Dr. Victoria Price has been appointed as head of the Department of Pediatrics for five-year term, effective Nov. 1, 2025.
Dr. Price, who is a professor in the Department of Pediatrics and head of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, earned her medical degree in South Africa and completed fellowships in pediatric hematology/oncology and hemostasis in Toronto. She later earned an MSc in Health Economics from the London School of Economics.
Since joining Dalhousie and the IWK in 2005, Dr. Price has led the development of specialized clinics for hemoglobinopathy and vascular anomalies, serving children across the Maritimes. She founded Dalhousie’s Pediatric Hematology/Oncology training program and has mentored numerous students and residents. Her research focuses on quality of life for children with chronic hematologic disorders, and she has authored over 90 publications. In 2022, she received Dalhousie’s Faculty of Medicine Award for Excellence in Research Mentorship – Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
In her new role, Dr. Price will guide pediatric care, education, and research across the region, working closely with IWK Health, Nova Scotia Health, and the Faculty of Medicine to foster innovation and train future healthcare professionals.
This appointment also honours the leadership of Dr. Andrew Lynk, who served as department head from 2016 to 2025.
In Memoriam: Dr. Elihu Pugsley Rees
The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to hear of the passing of retired faculty member and pioneer in neonatal care in Nova Scotia, Dr. Elihu Pugsley Rees, on July 10, 2025, at the age of 86.
Born in Boston and educated at Phillips Exeter Academy, Dr. Rees began his medical journey at McGill University, earning his MD in 1961. He completed his specialization in neonatology in Montreal before spending two years in Pittsburgh as a research fellow. In 1970, he made Halifax his home, a move that would shape the trajectory of neonatal care in the Maritimes for decades to come.
Dr. Rees led the Neonatal Unit at the IWK Health Centre, where he became known for his dedication to innovation in neonatal intensive care. A committed educator, he taught generations of Dalhousie medical students and residents, always with a focus on patient-centred care and collaborative practice. He was a strong early advocate for the expanded role of neonatal nurses and deeply valued the expertise of his interprofessional team.
His contributions extended well beyond the walls of the IWK. As co-director of the Reproductive Care Program of Nova Scotia for 14 years, Dr. Rees played a central role in improving maternal and newborn health across the province. He was instrumental in launching Nova Scotia’s neonatal transport program, helping to ensure critically ill newborns could access the specialized care they needed regardless of geography.
Known for his intellect, wit, and warm mentorship, Dr. Rees brought humour and humanity into his practice. He also brought people together; whether through summer gatherings with his team on the Northwest Arm or through his leadership in the Canadian chapter of the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, celebrating the culture of Burgundy wines.
Dr. Rees retired after 28 years of dedicated service, leaving a legacy of clinical excellence, system-level impact, and joyful camaraderie. He approached medicine and life with curiosity, generosity, and integrity, and inspired others to do the same.
He will be deeply missed by his colleagues, former students, and all those whose lives he touched throughout his distinguished career.
Read his full obituary here.