June 2026

June 4, 2026 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

It is one of the most meaningful times of year in our Faculty as we celebrate the achievements of our learners and mark an important transition.

Convocation celebrations in the Faculty of Medicine began on May 8 in Saint John, with the Launch Ceremony honouring the accomplishments of our Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick (DMNB) graduating students. The celebrations continued on May 29, 2026, as we gathered at the Faculty of Medicine convocation ceremony. This milestone represents the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and dedication. Seeing our graduates cross the stage is always a proud moment, and this year is no exception. To the Class of 2026, I offer my sincere congratulations and best wishes—you leave here well prepared to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, families, and communities.

We look forward to seeing what they will do next. You can read more about the journeys of some of our graduates here.

I would also like to extend my sincere congratulations to Dr. Andrew Harding, who was awarded the Dalhousie Class of 2026 C.B Stewart Gold Medal in Medicine award for the highest academic standing in the graduating class. Dr. Harding is celebrated for his outstanding academic accomplishments and his consistent demonstration of excellence throughout her medical education. Congratulations, Dr. Harding, and to all those who received awards during the convocation proceedings!

Read more about Dr. Harding’s story here.

The May 29th convocation ceremony also saw the first graduating class of the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program cross the stage at the Dalhousie Arts Centre. This class, who officially completed the program in December, represents both the promise and the impact of this important educational initiative. I extend my sincere congratulations to these graduates, and to assistant dean of the program Dr. Mike Clory. These students entered the workforce earlier this year, and their skills, dedication, and collaborative approach are already making a meaningful contribution to patient care and to the strength of our healthcare system.

Read more here.

Dr. Nicole Boutilier receives Chris Carruthers Award

Congratulations to Dr. Nicole Boutilier who has been named the 2026 recipient of the Chris Carruthers Excellence in Medical Leadership Award, a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional contributions to healthcare leadership in Nova Scotia and beyond. In her role as Executive Vice President of Medicine and Clinical Operations at Nova Scotia Health, Dr. Boutilier has played a key role in strengthening the province’s health system—advancing collaboration, supporting physicians, and improving access to high-quality care. Known for her thoughtful, values-driven approach, she is equally respected as a mentor and leader who is helping to shape the next generation of physician leaders.

Read more here.

Dal Med learners receive Board of Governors Award

We’re proud to celebrate the outstanding members of the Dalhousie Faculty of Medicine community who have been named Dalhousie University Board of Governors’ Award recipients for 2025–2026, Dalhousie’s highest honour for student leadership.

Announced at the Impact Awards on March 26, this year’s recipients reflect what meaningful impact looks like in medicine today: advancing accessibility in medical training, centering human connection in care, championing peer mental health support, and leading with inclusion and purpose.

Congratulations to RJ Roggeveen (MD candidate), Sherry Eskander (MD candidate), Evan Treffler (Medical Sciences), and Wateen Sadek (Neuroscience). Through advocacy grounded in lived experience, creative approaches to wellness and care, peer-driven mental health leadership, and a deep commitment to inclusive community-building, each of these students is helping to redefine what’s possible in medicine and health care.

Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine Royal College 2026 award recipients

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada has announced its 2026 national award recipients and Honorary Fellows, recognizing outstanding contributions to specialty medicine, education, research, and leadership across Canada. This year’s recipients include several distinguished members of the Dalhousie Faculty of Medicine.

Dr. Andrew Warren from the Department of Pediatrics has received the Duncan Graham Award for Outstanding Contribution to Medical Education for his national leadership in competency-based medical education and residency training.

Dr. Brent Young, Academic Director of Indigenous Health in the Office of Community Engagement has been honored with the Dr. Thomas Dignan Indigenous Health Award for advancing Indigenous-led models of care and supporting pathways for Indigenous medical learners.

Dr. Kenneth Rockwood of the Department of Medicine has received the James H. Graham Award of Merit in recognition of his internationally influential work in Geriatric Medicine and frailty research.

Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine leaders recognized at the 2026 Impact Awards

Dalhousie’s 15th annual Impact Awards brought together students, faculty, staff, and community members on March 25 to celebrate exceptional leadership and service beyond the classroom. Among this year’s honourees were several members of the Faculty of Medicine community, recognized for their outstanding contributions to innovation, equity, and student leadership.

Medical student Nicoletta Dini received two major honours—Student Entrepreneur of the Year, presented by Pomerleau, and the Sustainability Award, recognizing her leadership in innovation and environmental advocacy. Faculty of Medicine students Eshan Arora (medical student) and Annika Benson (graduate student) were each recognized with Faculty Leadership Impact Awards, celebrating their initiative, leadership, and positive impact on peers and the broader Dalhousie community.

The evening also celebrated Timi Idris, manager of the Black Learners Admissions Pathway (BLAP), who received the Outstanding Graduate Student Award for her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and student success at Dalhousie.

Congratulations to all winners.

Read more here.

Resident Dr. Erik Mandawe named RDoC Puddester Award recipient

Congratulations to Dr. Erik Mandawe, resident in the Division of Plastic Surgery here in the Faculty of Medicine, on being named the 2026 Resident Doctors of Canada (RDoC) Puddester Award recipient for Resident Wellness. This national award recognizes Dr. Mandawe’s outstanding leadership and meaningful, sustained impact on resident wellness, particularly through his advocacy, mentorship, and commitment to culturally grounded, community-centred approaches to well-being for Indigenous medical learners. His work fostering belonging through the Keknu’tmasiek Ta’n Tel Welo’ltimk program, along with his national leadership advancing anti-racism, cultural safety, and equity in medical education, reflects a deep commitment to creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments for residents across Canada. Dr. Mandawe will be recognized in a virtual ceremony in June 2026.

Faculty of Medicine presents annual awards

Each year during our annual faculty meeting, we present the Faculty of Medicine awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to education and teaching, community service, medical research, and continuing medication education. It’s my pleasure to congratulate the 2026 winners, who were awarded at the meeting on June 2, 2026:

The Faculty of Medicine Early Career Educator Award: Dr. Alexandra Manning

The Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Education: Dr. Gerard Corsten

The Faculty of Medicine Community Teacher of the Year Award: Dr. Jeffrey Ratushny

The Faculty of Medicine Early Career Award of Excellence in Clinical Practice: Dr. Sarah Fancy

The Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Clinical Practice: Dr. Min Lee

The Faculty of Medicine Award for Early Career Excellence in Teaching (PhD Faculty): Dr. Joshua Slysz

The Faculty of Medicine Award for Early Career Excellence in Teaching (MPAS Faculty): Erin Sephton

The Dr. Allan Cohen Memorial Award for Community Service: Dr. Cinera States

The Faculty of Medicine Wayne Putnam Award: Dr. Simon Jackson

The Dr. John Savage Memorial Award for Faculty Leadership in Global Health: Dr. Nabha Shetty

The Faculty of Medicine Program Director’s Award – Innovations in Postgraduate Education: Dr. Stacey Williams

The Faculty of Medicine Program Director’s Award – Leadership: Dr. Allen Tran

The Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Basic Research Award: Dr. Morgan Langille

The Faculty of Medicine Early Career Investigator Award – Clinician: Dr. Thomas Brothers

The Faculty of Medicine Early Career Investigator Award – Research Faculty: Dr. Melina Agosto

The Faculty of Medicine Award for Excellence in Research Mentorship of Trainees: Dr. Mark Asbridge

The David Anderson Award for Clinical Research Excellence – Research Faculty: Dr. Manuel Mattheisen

The David Anderson Award for Clinical Research Excellence – Clinician: Dr. Michael Bezuhly

The Faculty of Medicine Award for Excellence in Research Mentorship – Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Dr. Ejemai Eboreime

The Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Research Mentorship of Faculty: Dr. Roy Duncan

The Faculty of Medicine Award for Career Excellence in Research Mentorship: Dr. Gregory Hirsch

Congratulations to all the winners!

Dr. Kim Brewer receives Research NS funding

Dr. Kim Brewer, associate professor and research scientist in the School of Biomedical Engineering, and Departments of Physics & Atmospheric Science, Microbiology & Immunology, and Diagnostic Radiology, has received funding through Research Nova Scotia’s new Ear to the Ground competition, part of a $2.1‑million investment supporting applied research with clear benefits for Nova Scotians. Based at the IWK Health Sciences Centre and developed in partnership with local biotech and equipment collaborators, Dr. Brewer’s project advances sophisticated imaging techniques that allow researchers to better track how therapies behave in the body over time. By strengthening pre‑clinical drug development and reducing risk before clinical trials, this work helps accelerate the path from discovery to real‑world application while contributing to Nova Scotia’s growing innovation economy.

Read more here.

Dr. Paola Marignani is advancing breast cancer research through precision science and artificial intelligence

With support from a $250,000 grant from the Breast Cancer Society of Canada, Dr. Paola Marignani and her team at Dalhousie Medicine are advancing research into HER2‑positive breast cancer—one of the disease’s more aggressive forms. Using precision oncology, next‑generation sequencing, and artificial intelligence, the team is analyzing thousands of individual tumour cells to uncover why this cancer can return despite effective treatment. Their work is revealing new genetic markers linked to early detection, resistance, and recurrence, with the goal of developing more precise diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for patients.

Read more here.

Dal immunologists rank among the best

Eight Dalhousie researchers have been recognized among the top immunologists in Canada in the 2026 Research.com Best Immunology Scientists ranking—an honour that reflects the depth and impact of our research community. Based on comprehensive bibliometric data from sources including OpenAlex and CrossRef, the ranking highlights scientific influence using discipline-specific metrics such as the D-index, which focuses on immunology-related publications and citations. Together, these scholars are advancing discovery, informing clinical practice, and strengthening Dalhousie’s reputation as a leader in immunology research.

Congratulations to:

Dr. Scott Halperin

Dr. Andrew Issekutz

Dr. David Kelvin

Dr. Noni MacDonald

Dr. Tobias Kollmann

Dr. Jean Marshall

Dr. Shelly MacNeil

Dr. Thomas Issekutz

Read more here.

Dalhousie University Master of Clinical Psychiatry and Global Mental Health

Dalhousie University has launched a new graduate program for licensed healthcare professionals. The Master of Clinical Psychiatry and Global Mental Health is an online, part-time, two-year program designed to enhance skills in clinical psychiatry and improve patient care. The program will provide a graduate-level education in transcultural evidence-based diagnosis, treatment planning, and psychopharmacology to health care professionals for improved management of patients presenting with mental health issues.

By enhancing mental healthcare capacity and skills among eligible healthcare professionals globally, this program addresses gaps in specialized psychiatric care, particularly in underserved regions. Participants will learn in a program that emphasizes cultural competence, evidence-based practice, and practical skills development.

The program will start in September 2026.

Learn more here.

Ring Rescue Featured on The Pitt

A Nova Scotia–based medical innovation with roots at Dalhousie made its primetime television debut in March when Ring Rescue appeared on The Pitt, a popular emergency medicine series known for its clinical realism. Co-founded by Dalhousie alum Dr. Kevin Spencer, Ring Rescue was developed to safely and quickly remove stuck rings—an everyday problem that can escalate into a serious medical emergency. The episode highlights how this made‑in‑Dartmouth solution is changing emergency care, protecting patients, and showcasing Dalhousie-driven innovation on the global stage.

Read more here.

Breakthrough Breakfast: The Promise of Genetics & Genomics

The 2026 Breakthrough Breakfast Series will highlight groundbreaking research and medical innovation, bringing together researchers, trainees, patients, and community members to explore advances across a wide range of health fields.

This year’s event, taking place June 9 from 7:30 – 9:00am at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, will focus on how genetics and genomics are transforming care for patients with rare and complex diseases.

Hosted by Dr. Eileen Denovan-Wright, associate dean of research, the program will feature leading Dalhousie researchers Drs. Chris McMaster, Mike West, Luke Chen, and Sanja Stanojevic. Speakers will explore topics including identifying and repairing genes linked to rare diseases, using genetics to guide more effective treatments in community care, and accelerating new therapies through drug repurposing.

The event will showcase how genomic discoveries are being translated into real-world health solutions—helping researchers better understand disease, speed up treatment development, and improve outcomes for patients and families.

Click here to register.

Dr. Keith W. Wilson appointed Assistant Dean, Student and Resident Affairs (DMNB)

Dr. Keith W. Wilson has been appointed Assistant Dean, Student and Resident Affairs at Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick (DMNB), for a five-year term effective July 1, 2026.

A longtime Dalhousie faculty member, Dr. Wilson brings extensive experience in clinical care, medical education, and learner assessment. A former community-based family physician and current geriatrician at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Saint John, he has held numerous teaching and leadership roles spanning undergraduate and postgraduate education. He is widely recognized for his contributions to health professions education, including his work in assessment, mentorship, and faculty development both nationally and internationally.

In this role, Dr. Wilson will support medical students and residents with a focus on wellness, mentorship, and professional development, helping to foster inclusive and supportive learning environments across DMNB.

We also extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Lisa Sutherland for her exceptional leadership over two terms as Assistant Dean. Her dedication, compassion, and commitment to learner well-being have had a meaningful and lasting impact on our community.

Dr. Patrick Fok named inaugural Dr. Ron Stewart Clinician Scientist in EMS

Dr. Patrick T. Fok has been appointed as the Dr. Ron Stewart Clinician Scientist in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for a five-year term, effective April 1, 2026.

Established by Dalhousie University and the QEII Health Sciences Centre, the role supports research and innovation in EMS and honours the legacy of Dr. Ron Stewart, a pioneer of modern paramedicine and a leader in emergency medicine, health policy, and public service in Nova Scotia.

An associate professor in Dalhousie’s Department of Emergency Medicine, Dr. Fok practices at the Halifax Infirmary and with Emergency Health Services, including LifeFlight. His research focuses on prehospital care, airway management, and non-opioid pain treatment.

As clinician scientist, he will lead a research program to improve emergency care delivery outside the hospital while mentoring paramedics and trainees.

Learn more about Dr. Fok here.

Dr. Giacomo Vivanti appointed Joan and Jack Craig Chair in Autism Research

Dr. Giacomo Vivanti has been appointed the Joan and Jack Craig Chair in Autism Research at Dalhousie University, effective August 1, 2026.

An internationally recognized autism researcher, Dr. Vivanti joins Dalhousie from Drexel University, where his work has focused on early detection, early learning, and early intervention to improve outcomes for autistic individuals and their families across the lifespan. With more than 50 peer‑reviewed publications and extensive experience integrating research, clinical practice, and community‑based approaches, Dr. Vivanti brings deep expertise in evidence‑based intervention and knowledge translation.

Established through the generosity of the Craig Family Foundation, the Joan and Jack Craig Chair in Autism Research supports leadership in research, clinical innovation, and knowledge translation. Building on the strong legacy of previous chairholders, Dr. Vivanti’s program will integrate research with clinical practice and policy, strengthen partnerships with families and communities, mentor trainees and early‑career researchers, and further advance Nova Scotia’s leadership in autism research, service innovation, and evidence‑informed systems of care.

In memoriam: Barbara Louise Blauvelt

The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to learn of the passing of Barbara Louise Blauvelt, whose extraordinary 45-year career at Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine helped shape the institution and its medical community, on Dec. 1, 2025, at the age of 98.

A native of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Barbara came to the Faculty of Medicine in 1948 as secretary to Dean Dr. Harry G. Grant. She went on to serve under six deans, retiring in 1992 as assistant to the deans and executive secretary of the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association, an organization she helped to establish and nurture. A cornerstone of the Faculty of Medicine, she played a vital role in strengthening alumni relations, supporting medical leadership, and preserving the history of Dalhousie Medicine through decades of service. Widely respected for her professionalism, institutional knowledge, and commitment to medical education, Barbara’s legacy continues to be felt across the Faculty of Medicine.

Read her full obituary here.

In Memoriam: Susan Burns

The Faculty of Medicine is saddened to learn of the passing of Susan Burns, records manager with MedIT, on April 15, 2026, at the age of 64.

Sue dedicated her career to improving access to education through library services and assistive technology. She held a BA in Anthropology and a Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS), and began her career at Saint Mary’s University, where she supported students with print disabilities at the Ferguson Library.

She went on to roles at Wilfrid Laurier University, Western University, and the University of Waterloo, working as an Assistive Technologist and helping students access the tools they needed to succeed. After returning to Nova Scotia, she worked as a school librarian and as a librarian at the Nova Institution for Women before joining Dalhousie University as a Records Manager, a role she held until 2023.

Sue’s work reflected a strong commitment to accessibility, education, and public service. Colleagues also remember what a pleasure it was to work with Sue. She had a dry sense of humour and a gift for finding moments of levity.

Read her full obituary here.

In Memoriam: Dr. Paul Alan Mears

The Faculty of Medicine is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Paul Alan Mears, assistant professor in the Departments of Critical Care and Cardiology in the Department of Medicine here at Dalhousie, on May 20, 2026, at the age of 49.

Dr. Mears completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Guelph, before attending McMaster University to complete his medical degree (Class of 2002). He continued his training at Dalhousie, completing his residency in internal medicine in 2005 and a fellowship in cardiology in 2008. He later returned to McMaster University to complete advanced training in cardiac imaging in 2009, bringing this specialized expertise back to Nova Scotia.

Dr. Mears went on to build a busy and highly regarded community practice at Dartmouth General Hospital, where he worked in internal medicine and cardiology. Known for his clinical skill and commitment to his patients, he took immense pride in his work and in the relationships he built within the hospital and broader medical community. He leaves behind colleagues, patients, and a wider community who will remember him with respect and gratitude.

Read his full obituary here.

Dean’s Blog March 2026

March 26, 2026 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

2026 certainly arrived with its fair share of winter weather across the Maritimes. Storms, fresh snowfalls, and crisp, cold mornings made for a season that’s hard to ignore.

This should be another exciting and productive year, albeit a time of transition. Last month Dalhousie announced the appointment of Dr. Saleem Razack as the new Dean of Medicine. I want to wish him congratulations on this appointment. It has been the greatest privilege of my career to have served in this role and to work alongside such an extraordinary community of students, staff, faculty and alumni.

Your dedication, kindness, and commitment have inspired me every day. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have shared in your achievements, faced challenges together, and witnessed the remarkable impact you make—both within Dalhousie Medicine and far beyond. Thank you for making this journey so meaningful and memorable.

In saying that, I know you will show the same warmth, support, and collegial spirit to Dr. Razack that you have so generously shown to me throughout my tenure. Our faculty, staff, and students create an environment where people feel genuinely welcomed, valued, and inspired, and I have every confidence that he will experience that from day one.

I remain deeply committed to making the most of my time with you over the months ahead. Together, we will continue advancing our shared priorities, supporting one another, and building on the momentum that has carried us into this year.

As we move through this period of transition, our momentum as a faculty remains strong. Across education, research, and leadership, there is much to celebrate and even more to look forward to. The updates below reflect the extraordinary people, achievements, and opportunities that continue to shape Dalhousie Medicine and point to the next chapter of growth and impact ahead.

Dr. Saleem Razack appointed as Dean of Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Saleem Razack as Dean of Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine for a five‑year term beginning September 1, 2026.

Dr. Razack is a tenured professor of pediatrics, a pediatric intensivist, and a nationally recognized medical education researcher at BC Children’s Hospital and the University of British Columbia. A graduate of the University of Toronto, he completed his pediatrics and pediatric intensive care training at the Montreal Children’s Hospital/McGill University, where he remained on faculty for more than two decades before joining UBC.

Throughout his career, Dr. Razack has held numerous educational and clinical leadership roles at the institutional and national levels. His research program focuses on best practices in health professions education, with particular emphasis on health equity, anti‑oppressive curricula, and the intersection of patient safety and equity.

Dr. Razack has authored more than 70 peer‑reviewed publications and is widely regarded as a leader in advancing inclusive, evidence‑informed approaches to medical education.

His contributions have been recognized with several prestigious honours, including the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) President’s Award for Exemplary National Leadership in Medical Education (2025), the AFMC May Cohen Equity and Gender Award (2012), and the Pediatric Chairs of Canada Award for Leadership in Medical Education (2014).

Dr. Razack brings a strong commitment to collaboration, educational excellence, and social accountability to Dalhousie Medicine, and we look forward to the leadership and vision he will bring to the Faculty in the years ahead. Join me in welcoming him to the Dalhousie community.

Click here to read more about Dr. Razack and this appointment

Dr. Stephanie Langley appointed senior associate dean, Cape Breton Medical Campus

On behalf of the Cape Breton Medical Campus (CBMC), we are pleased that Dr. Stephanie Langley began her appointment as senior associate dean, Cape Breton Medical Campus, on January 5, 2026.

Dr. Langley completed a BSc (Honours Biology) at St. Francis Xavier University, followed by an MSc in biochemistry and MD at Dalhousie University. She went on to complete family medicine residency at Dalhousie and earned the Certificate of the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP) in 1997.

She joined the Department of Family Medicine at Dalhousie in 1998, and became undergraduate site director in 2006, and site director of the Cape Breton Family Medicine Residency Program in 2014, a position she held until recently. At Nova Scotia Health, she has served as head of the Department of Family Medicine for the Eastern Zone since 2020 and previously as medical site lead at Northside General Hospital (2014–2019).

As a family physician, Dr. Langley has served in diverse clinical settings including office practice, youth health, well‑women’s clinics, urgent care, hospitalist services, OR assist, and unattached patient care.

Dr. Langley’s contributions to education and community health have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Medical Staff Association Award of Excellence (2023), Dalhousie Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching (2022), the Dr. Robert Baillie Award (2018), the Lydia Dickson Inspiration Award (2017), and the DoctorsNS William Grigor Award (2011).

As senior associate dean, Dr. Langley will provide academic and operational leadership for undergraduate medical education at CBMC and will work closely with faculty, health‑system partners, and community stakeholders to support learners and advance CBMC’s mission.

In announcing Dr. Langley’s appointment, we would like to express our sincere thanks to Dr. Jennifer Hall, the inaugural Senior Associate Dean who has been instrumental in the development of CBMC and has well positioned the campus for future success.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Langley on her appointment and thanking Dr. Hall for her immeasurable contributions.

Dr. Marc Nicholson appointed assistant dean of professional affairs, DMNB

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Marc Nicholson, assistant dean of professional affairs (DMNB), effective February 1, 2026.

A native of Saint John, Dr. Nicholson attended Dalhousie Medical School, graduating in 2002, before completing a residency in pediatrics at the Janeway Children’s Hospital at Memorial University in Newfoundland. He has been a practicing general pediatrician in Saint John, New Brunswick since 2009. Over the last five years he has become very involved in pediatric gender care, working with gender diverse youth from across the province.

Dr. Nicholson has been part of DMNB since its inception in 2010, acting as a case-based learning tutor, a role he continues to this day. Since 2017, he has also held the position of Director of Interprofessional Education, and in 2018 he became the faculty co‑lead for Community Engaged Service Learning in New Brunswick. He further enhanced his expertise by completing a Master’s in Adult Education for Healthcare Professionals in 2017.

In announcing Dr. Nicholson’s appointment, we would like to acknowledge the contributions brought to the role of Assistant Dean, Professional Affairs by Dr. Samantha Gray. Dr. Gray was the inaugural Assistant Dean Professional Affairs at DMNB and vacated the role to take on the Clinical Academic Department Head of Oncology role at the Saint John Regional Hospital, Horizon Health Network.

Dr. Nabha Shetty appointed Assistant Dean of Professional Affairs, DMNS

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Nabha Shetty, Assistant Dean of Professional Affairs (DMNS), effective March 1, 2026.

Dr. Shetty, who was born in India and immigrated to Yarmouth, N.S. 30 years ago, completed her medical degree at the University of Ottawa, before her residency in internal medicine at Western University, and her subspecialty training in general internal medicine here at Dalhousie. She also holds a Master of Science in Healthcare Quality from Queens University.

An associate professor in the Department of Medicine, Dr. Shetty serves as the scholarly activity director for general internal medicine in Halifax. Since joining the faculty in 2016 as an academic general internist, she has focused her clinical and academic work on quality improvement, obstetrical medicine, and goals of care planning. She brings a deep commitment to system transformation, particularly in aligning resource use with high-value care for patients.

Nationally, Dr. Shetty is recognized for her leadership in Planetary Health. At Dalhousie, Dr. Shetty has held several significant leadership roles, including director of Quality for the Department of Medicine, director of the Medical Teaching Unit in Halifax, division head for general internal medicine (Nova Scotia Health Central Zone), and membership on the Boards of Directors for Doctors Nova Scotia and Hospice Halifax.

In announcing Dr. Shetty’s appointment, we would like to acknowledge the contributions brought to the role of Assistant Dean, Professional Affairs by Dr. Ian Epstein. Dr. Epstein was the inaugural Assistant Dean Professional Affairs at DMNS and vacated the role to take on the Associate Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education here in the Faculty of Medicine.

Dr. Sanja Stanojevic named Distinguished Killam Memorial Chair
Dr. Sanja Stanojevic has been awarded a Distinguished Killam Memorial Chair (Established Research Leader) by Dalhousie University and the Killam Trust Foundation, one of the most prestigious research honours at the university. Awarded only once every five years, the Killam Memorial Chair recognizes exceptional research leadership and scholarly excellence with national and international impact.

This appointment marks the first time a faculty member in the Department of Community Health & Epidemiology has received a Killam Memorial Chair. The five‑year term, running from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2031, provides significant support for salary relief, research activities, and trainee development, including funding for a doctoral student. Dr. Stanojevic’s work continues to advance Dalhousie’s research priorities while strengthening the department’s impact across research, training, and knowledge generation.

DMAA Alumni Recognition Awards: Call for Nominations

Each year, the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association (DMAA) recognize exceptional accomplishments in the medical field. The DMAA Alumni Recognition Awards not only recognize outstanding achievements in research and clinical practice, they also showcase the contributions that are made to the medical school, students and the community.

To nominate someone for a DMAA Alumni Award, please fill complete a Nomination Form and submit it to medical.alumni@dal.ca by March 31st.

Faculty of Medicine Awards: Call for Submissions

The Faculty of Medicine Awards recognize outstanding contributions made by faculty to education and teaching, community service, medical research, and continuing medication education. The submission deadline is Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Learn more.

Dal/NSH announce new Division of Public Health and Preventative Medicine with Dr. Gaynor Watson Creed as its acting Head.

In collaboration with Nova Scotia Health, we are pleased to announce the creation of the Division of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (PHPM) within the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology. The new division will strengthen public health expertise, training, research, and care across Nova Scotia and the Maritime provinces.

The Division of PHPM will serve as the clinical and academic home for public health physicians, including Medical Officers of Health, and will support teaching, research, and clinical practice. It will also launch the region’s first PHPM residency program, the only one east of Quebec, with the first intake anticipated by 2028. The Division will focus on health protection, disease prevention, surveillance, emergency response, and health equity, while fostering research collaboration and training future public health leaders.

Dr. Gaynor Watson-Creed has been appointed Interim Division Head and will provide senior academic leadership across medical education and research, represent the Division at Dalhousie and Nova Scotia Health leadership tables, and guide curriculum development, accreditation, and strategic planning. A passionate advocate for high-quality public health services and anti-oppressive health care, she brings deep commitment and leadership to this role.

Read more here.

A new bursary supporting Black medical students at Dalhousie

Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine is proud to announce a transformative partnership with the Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC), marking a significant step toward equity in medical education. Through a generous $200,000 gift, FFBC has launched the Black Medical Students Bursary for first year medical students to receive a one-time amount of $10,000 which is a national initiative designed to reduce financial barriers for Black learners entering medical school.

Read more here.

First graduating class of the Masters of Physician Assistant Studies program

Congratulations to the first graduating class of the Masters of Physician Assistant Studies program, for their significant milestone with the completion of the two‑year program. This class, who officially entered the workforce in January of this year, represents both the promise and the impact of this important educational initiative. I extend my sincere congratulations to these graduates as they take up roles across Nova Scotia Health, where their skills, dedication, and collaborative approach will make a meaningful contribution to patient care and to the strength of our healthcare system.

Read more here.

Dr. Patrick Croskerry appointed to Order of Canada

Dr. Patrick Croskerry, retired professor in Dalhousie’s Department of Emergency Medicine, has been appointed to the Order of Canada for his groundbreaking work on diagnostic errors and clinical decision-making. Through Dal’s Critical Thinking Program, he developed curricula to strengthen judgment and risk assessment, shaping safer, more precise health care. A former Olympic rower, Dr. Croskerry says he is honored to be recognized for research that examines how physicians think and make decisions.

Read more here.

Dr. Noni MacDonald named to Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers for second year

Dr. Noni MacDonald, professor emeritus in Dalhousie’s Department of Pediatrics, has earned a spot on Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers list for the third consecutive year. A pioneer in vaccine hesitancy research, Dr. MacDonald authored the World Health Organization’s landmark 2015 report that helped elevate the issue to a top global health threat. Her work continues to shape the field, which has grown from less than one per cent of vaccinology publications in 2012 to over 10 per cent today. Recently, she has explored political vaccine hesitancy, a rising challenge in the U.S., underscoring the need for research to combat misinformation and strengthen public health worldwide.

Read more here.

Dr. Evelyn Sutton receives 2026 Distinguished Rheumatologist Award

We’re proud to congratulate Dr. Evelyn Sutton, MD, FRCPC, on receiving the Canadian Rheumatology Association’s 2026 Distinguished Rheumatologist Award—a national honour recognizing her leadership in patient care, education, and research. A professor in Dalhousie’s Division of Rheumatology and past CRA President (2020–2022), Dr. Sutton has shaped training and care across Canada: she led Dalhousie’s rheumatology division and the Nova Scotia Arthritis Centre (2004–2015), co‑founded a Royal College–recognized medical education elective for senior residents, and served 19 years as Assistant Dean of Admissions and Associate Dean of Undergraduate Medical Education at Dalhousie. Her teaching excellence includes the 2014 CRA Teacher‑Educator Award, and her book A Primer on Musculoskeletal Examination continues to guide learners. Dr. Sutton will receive her award in Halifax in April at the CRA Annual Scientific Meeting.

Read more here.

Dr. Leah Jones recognized with African Heritage Month Award

Dalhousie presented the African Heritage Month Awards at their annual African Heritage Month launch. The awards recognize individuals whose leadership and commitment uplift African Nova Scotian, Black, and African Diaspora culture on campus and beyond. Five members of the Dalhousie community were celebrated this year for their outstanding contributions.

Among the honourees was Dr. Leah Jones, a family physician from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, with deep roots in the historic African Nova Scotian community of Whitney Pier. As the first Academic Director of Black Health at Dalhousie Medical School and Physician Lead for the Nova Scotia Sisterhood, Dr. Jones has played a transformative role in advancing equity in health care and medical education. She also practices addictions medicine at Direction 180 and through the QEII Inpatient Addiction Medicine Consult Service.

Congratulations to all the winners.

Read more here.

Congratulations to Dalhousie’s 2026 CAME Award Recipients
The Faculty of Medicine is proud to celebrate the outstanding learners and faculty recognized this year by the Canadian Association for Medical Education (CAME). These national awards honour individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to medical education through research, curriculum development, leadership, advocacy, and meaningful contributions to their learning communities.

The CAME Rising Star – Certificate of Excellence celebrates emerging leaders in health professions education who are already making a significant impact at their institutions and beyond. Congratulations to Dalhousie’s recipients:

Ms. Jacqui Jn. Baptiste, Medical Student

Dr. Kathleen MacMillan, Resident

Mr. Hugh Atkinson, Graduate Student

The CAME Certificate of Merit Awards recognize faculty members who have shown dedication and excellence in advancing medical education in Canada. Congratulations to Dalhousie’s honourees:

Dr. Adrienne Weeks

Dr. Andrew Trenholm

Dr. Ian Davis

All recipients will be celebrated at CAME’s Virtual Award Event on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Please join us in congratulating these deserving recipients for their contributions to medical education in Canada.

Read more here.

CIHR Fall 2025 Project Grant results

We are pleased to share the results for the CIHR Fall 2025 Project Grant competition are now in, with a national success rate of 13.6 per cent. Project Grants support innovative and impactful health research across all disciplines, from discovery to application.

Congratulations to six Faculty of Medicine researchers who were successful in the latest CIHR Project Grant competition.

Dr. Francesca Di Cara: Peroxisomal regulation of adaptor protein oligomerization: a novel control mechanism of immune and inflammatory pathways

Dr. Ejemai Eboreime: Rebuilding Emotional Stability and Strength Through Therapeutic and Life-Skills Education for Internally Displaced Adolescents and Early Adults in Nigeria (RESETTLE-IDAs): A Post-Pilot Pragmatic Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation Study

Dr. Jill Hayden: Development and implementation of an exercise prescription toolkit for the management of chronic low back pain (ExRX Study)

Dr. Jean Marshall & Dr. Michael Bezuhly: Defining novel mast cell dependent pathways of skin fibrosis resolution

Dr. John Sapp: Secondary Prevention of Ventricular Tachycardia in Patients with Cardiomyopathies (END-VT)

CIHR grant competitions are highly competitive, with many exceptional submissions. To those who were not successful this round, we recognize the effort and dedication that goes into preparing a proposal. Many successful projects have emerged through thoughtfully considered resubmissions. Please reach out to mrdo@dal.ca if you would like support in preparing for resubmission and as your ideas and applications continue to evolve.

2025 Community Engagement Award Recipients

The Office of Community Engagement recently announced the recipients of the 2025 Community Engagement Awards, celebrating leadership and impact in advancing health equity through community and global engagement. Congratulations to:

Dr. Ronald Stewart Student Award
Chloe Blackman, fourth‑year medical student, is recognized for leadership in community and global health through her work revitalizing the HOPES clinic and contributing to global surgery research focused on reducing financial barriers to care.

Dr. TJ Jock Murray Resident Award
Dr. LeAnne Revell, PGY‑5 Psychiatry resident, is honoured for advancing global mental health education and international collaboration, including the development of Dalhousie Psychiatry’s first global mental health elective in partnership with institutions in Ghana.

Dr. John Savage Memorial Faculty Award
Dr. Vincent Agyapong, Professor and Head of Psychiatry and Chief of Psychiatry for Nova Scotia Health Central Zone, is recognized for transformative leadership in expanding culturally responsive mental health care locally and strengthening global mental health capacity internationally.

Read more here.

EUPHORIA! 2026 raises funds for T1D Kids Camps

It was another impressive showing as Dalhousie medical students took to the stage for 56th performance of Euphoria! on Feb. 7, 2026. The highly anticipated variety show features all four medical classes showcasing their artistic, theatrical, and musical talents while competing for bragging rights and the coveted Euphoria! trophy. The event also serves as a fundraiser for a charity of the students’ choosing, and this year’s show, supported T1D summer camps, which are designed to provide children living with type 1 diabetes the opportunity to enjoy an authentic camp experience in a medically accommodating environment.

Each class brought something special to the stage, from the Class of 2029’s Scalpels In: Knives Out, a playful first‑year whodunit that cast me as the ultimate culprit, to the Class of 2028’s Med Wars, a Star Wars–themed musical about saving the anatomy lab. The Class of 2027 delighted the audience with a Dungeons & Dragons–inspired fantasy set in a hospital call room, while the Class of 2026 closed the night with Harry Potter and the Goblet of CaRMS, a nostalgic and high‑energy take on the match journey that even pulled me into the finale. Med 4 was ultimately declared the winner, and thanks to everyone’s creativity and generosity, the event raised more than $71,646 for T1D summer camps.

Dalhousie launches Master of Clinical Psychiatry and Global Mental Health

Dalhousie University has launched an exciting, one-of-a-kind, new graduate program for licensed healthcare professionals. The Master of Clinical Psychiatry and Global Mental Health is an online, part-time, two-year program designed to enhance skills in clinical psychiatry and improve patient care.

For healthcare professional looking to build expertise, the Master of Clinical Psychiatry and Global Mental Health will provide a graduate-level education in transcultural evidence-based diagnosis, treatment planning, and psychopharmacology for improved management of patients presenting with mental health issues.

Explore the program in this video.

Applications are open and the deadline to apply is May 1, 2026. The program will start in September 2026.

To learn more and to apply, visit dal.ca/clinical-psychiatry-global

Note: The Master of Clinical Psychiatry and Global Mental Health is designed for eligible healthcare professionals who already hold an active license to practice clinically in their jurisdiction and does not qualify graduates for professional licensing.

If you have any questions, email Global.Psychiatry@dal.ca

Interprofessional Health Iftar fosters community, belonging, and inclusive practice in the multifaith prayer room

On March 6, learners, staff, and community members from across Medicine, Health, and Dentistry gathered in the new Multifaith Prayer Room in the Tupper Building for an Interprofessional Health Iftar, held during the month of Ramadhan. Coordinated by the Office of Community Engagement in consultation with Muslim medical students, the evening brought people together across programs to mark the breaking of the fast, strengthen interprofessional connections, and reflect the Faculty of Medicine’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. The event highlighted the importance of inclusive spaces that support religious observance within demanding academic environments and demonstrated how thoughtful, accessible infrastructure and community‑centred programming foster belonging, wellbeing, and culturally responsive practice across our learning community.

Read more here.

Save the date: Annual Faculty Meeting

The Annual Faculty Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The meeting will take place in Theatre A in the Tupper Link, with an option to join virtually. A link for the meeting will be shared as the date approaches.

In addition to any business referred to Faculty by Faculty Council, the meeting agenda will include:

Election of members to Faculty Council

Election of members to the Nominating Committee

Report from the Chair of Faculty Council

Reports from the Dean and Associate/Assistant Deans

Any business raised by faculty prior to or during the Annual Meeting

An agenda and supporting materials, including written reports, will be distributed in advance.

If you have any questions regarding the Annual Faculty Meeting, please contact:

Dr. Simon Jackson, Chair of Faculty Council

Megan Dixon

Tupper Parkade Construction Update

Essential repairs in the Tupper Parkade are now underway and will continue through September 1, 2026. Thank you for your patience and understanding as this important work progresses.

As shared at the recent town hall, the project involves removing and repairing areas of failing concrete. While the original plan was to complete much of this work using hydrodemolition—a high‑pressure water technique that reduces noise and vibration—contractors have encountered more bedrock than anticipated. Despite careful planning with structural engineers, the extent of bedrock cannot be fully determined until work begins, and this discovery has required adjustments to both methods and scheduling.

Facilities Management, contractors, and university partners are working closely together to ensure the work is completed before the start of the Fall 2026 term, while minimizing disruption to teaching, research, and building operations wherever possible. Work will continue to be rescheduled and coordinated to accommodate academic and operational needs.

Tentative schedule for the most disruptive work (now through June 2026). This schedule may change as university needs evolve:

Monday: 6:00–10:00 p.m.

Tuesday: 7:00–11:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 8:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m.

Thursday: 9:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m.

Friday: 6:00–10:00 p.m.

Saturday/Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

A different schedule will be in place for July and August 2026, with details to be shared closer to that time.

Please note: Full parkade closure: May 4 – August 31, 2026

To ensure the work is completed on schedule and before classes resume, the Tupper Parkade will be fully closed to all users during this period.

Those who currently park in the Tupper Parkade will receive direct communication from Parking Services with details about alternate parking arrangements and account credits during the closure.

We recognize that these changes are disruptive and appreciate your continued patience and flexibility. We remain committed to clear communication and will share additional updates as information becomes available.

Thank you again for your understanding as we complete this essential work.

In Memoriam: Dr. Edwin Michael Rosenberg (Eddie)

The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to hear of the passing of former faculty member in the Department of Psychiatry, Dr. Edwin Michael Rosenberg, on Dec. 6, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Rosenberg moved to Halifax to study medicine, graduating from Dalhousie with his MD in 1965. After completing his residency in psychiatry, he became a Major in the U.S. Medical Corps, where he acted as Supervisor of Psychiatric Residents at Walter Reed Hospital, Washington, and as the Assistant Chief of the Biomedical Stress Research Division for the Office of the Surgeon General. He received the Army Commendation Medal in 1970 in recognition of his contributions.

Upon his discharge, Dr. Rosenberg returned to Halifax and began a long and distinguished career in psychiatry that spanned clinical practice, academic leadership, and public service. At Dalhousie University, he served as associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry (1970–1997), training multiple generations of physicians and mental health professionals and mentoring colleagues across the discipline. At Camp Hill Hospital, he was Chief of Psychiatry (1975–1982) and Deputy Psychiatrist-in-Chief (1982–1985), roles in which he advanced patient care and strengthened psychiatric services for the community.

In addition to his academic and clinical leadership, Dr. Rosenberg was frequently called upon as an expert witness in courts across the Atlantic provinces, including the Supreme Courts of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, reflecting his standing in the field and commitment to the fair and informed administration of justice. He maintained a private practice and continued to see patients until his retirement in 2024, exemplifying deep dedication to those in his care.

Dr. Rosenberg is remembered by colleagues and former learners for his intellectual rigor, generosity of mentorship, and steadfast commitment to advancing psychiatry in the Maritimes.

Read his full obituary here.

In Memoriam: Dr. Mervin Shaw

The Faculty of Medicine is saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Mervin Shaw, a respected physician, alumnus, and longstanding member of the Dalhousie medical community, who died on February 24, 2026, in Halifax.

Dr. Shaw graduated from Dalhousie Medical School in 1965 and practised medicine for more than 25 years, earning a reputation as a highly regarded and compassionate family physician. He was deeply committed to his patients and exemplified the values of professionalism, service, and care that define the best of medical practice.

A dedicated supporter of Dalhousie Medicine, Dr. Shaw was an active member of the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association for more than three decades and made many significant contributions to alumni life and the profession. Among his most enduring legacies is the Gold‑Headed Cane tradition, which he helped sustain by hand‑carving canes presented annually in recognition of humanitarian service in medicine.

Dr. Shaw will also be remembered for his great sense of humour, sharp wit, and genuine interest in people. His warmth and creativity enriched the Faculty and left a lasting impression on colleagues, students, and friends.

We extend our sincere condolences to Dr. Shaw’s family, friends, and colleagues.

Read the full obituary here

Dean’s Blog: December 2025

December 1, 2025 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

It has been a busy fall so far, with much excitement in the Faculty of Medicine.

In November we celebrated the Dalhousie Medicine Gala at the Halifax Convention Centre. It was great to see such an incredible turnout at the event, which will be my last as dean. The weekend also featured an awards dinner for the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association where we recognized eight worthy recipients, and the Dr. Fred Barton Visiting Scholar & Lecture in Ethics in Medicine. Thanks to the organizers and all who attended the weekend’s events. Learn more about the festivities below.

Each year I have the pleasure of travelling to our teaching sites with our medical education and family medicine teams to meet with our students, residents, faculty, and staff who are supporting, teaching and training around the Maritime provinces. This fall, visits were made to sites in Kentville, Yarmouth, the South Shore, Halifax, Sydney, Inverness, and Truro in Nova Scotia; to Charlottetown, PEI; and to Upper River Valley, Miramichi, Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John in New Brunswick. This is a great opportunity to get feedback and discover innovations and opportunities in our teaching programs around the Maritimes and to meet and renew acquaintances with those who give so much to our Faculty.

We are thrilled to be a few months into welcoming our inaugural cohort at the Cape Breton Medical Campus, and it has been inspiring to see the energy and commitment our students bring to this new chapter in medical education. The collaborative spirit and dedication of our faculty, staff, and partners have set a strong foundation for success, and we are excited to witness the positive impact this campus will have on healthcare in Cape Breton and beyond. As we look ahead, the opening of the new medical sciences building will mark another milestone, providing state-of-the-art facilities that will further support academic excellence and community engagement.

With December upon us, I am proud to recognize the inaugural cohort of Dalhousie’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program. These trailblazing students have shown remarkable resilience and professionalism, navigating the challenges of a new program while demonstrating their commitment to compassionate, team-based care. Their journey from classroom to clinic marks a transformative moment for healthcare in Nova Scotia, and I am confident that their skills and dedication will make a lasting impact on the communities they serve. Congratulations to each of them on the successful completion of the program. I wish them all the best as they step into the workforce and help shape the future of care in our province.

I would like to highlight that after nearly eight years of dedicated service, Ms. Linda Penny will retire as Chief Operating Officer of the Faculty of Medicine on December 19. Since January 2018, Linda has steered the faculty with poise, wisdom, and a wonderful sense of humor, earning the respect and affection of colleagues across the university. Her leadership has fostered a more inclusive and supportive environment, and her commitment to staff wellness and collaboration has left a lasting legacy. We wish her all the best in this new chapter and thank her for her extraordinary contributions to the Faculty of Medicine and Dalhousie community.

Though we will miss Linda’s presence in the Faculty of Medicine, I’m pleased to share that Dr. Shawna O’Hearn will step into the COO role following Linda’s retirement. Dr. O’Hearn has spent 18 years advancing equity and community engagement in Dalhousie’s Faculty of Medicine, building partnerships locally and globally and championing initiatives like the Menopause Society of Nova Scotia and the Faculty’s Social Accountability Statement. I look forward to working closely with Dr. O’Hearn as she brings her leadership and vision to this new role, continuing to strengthen our commitment to equity, community engagement, and inclusive excellence.

As we approach the holiday season, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful holiday. I hope you have the opportunity to rest, recharge and enjoy the company of family and friends. Thank you all for your contributions to the Faculty of Medicine.

Faculty of Medicine celebrates two Canada Research Chairs renewals

Dalhousie’s Faculty of Medicine is proud to announce the successful renewals of two of our Canada Research Chairs whose work exemplifies the transformative power of discovery. Dr. David Kelvin, Tier 1 CRC in Translational Vaccinology and Inflammation, is decoding ancient and emerging viruses to protect global health, while Dr. Francesca Di Cara, Tier 2 CRC in Human Immunology and Host-Pathogen Interactions, is uncovering how the body’s cellular cleanup system may hold the key to brain health. These appointments are part of a national investment of over $690 million in science and research, announced by the Honourable Mélanie Joly. Their research reflects Dalhousie’s commitment to shaping a more sustainable, just, and resilient future—turning discovery into impact for Nova Scotians, Canadians, and communities worldwide.

Read more here.

Dr. Robin Urquhart and team

We are proud to share that Dr. Robin Urquhart, Canadian Cancer Society Endowed Chair in Cancer Research, and associate professor in the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology here at Dal, has been recognized for her leadership in population health research. As part of the national CanPath team, Dr. Urquhart contributed to securing a $3 million grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) through its Pandemic Research Platforms Interim Funding opportunity.

This two-year operating grant will support CanPath’s ability to respond rapidly to public health emergencies, including pandemics, climate-related health risks, and rising cancer rates in younger populations. The funding also ensures continued support for Atlantic PATH, the regional cohort led by Dr. Urquhart, as the team works toward long-term sustainability.

Dr. Urquhart’s work was also recently highlighted by the QEII Foundation, which profiled her impact as a leading cancer researcher in Canada. Her recognition by multiple organizations and media outlets this year underscores the collaborative spirit and scientific excellence that define her approach to research.

Congratulations to Dr. Urquhart and the entire CanPath team on this outstanding achievement.

Paul Bourgeois named 2025 EHS Award recipient

Congratulations to the Faculty of Medicine’s recently retired building services manager, Paul Bourgeois, who has been honoured with Dalhousie University’s 2025 Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to campus health and safety. Over his 16-year career at Dalhousie, including 13 years as building services manager, Paul demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. His proactive efforts strengthened the safety culture across key facilities such as the Tupper/CRC complex, Life Sciences Research Institute, and the Collaborative Health Education Building (CHEB).

We wish him well in retirement and know his legacy of collaboration and care will continue to shape Dalhousie’s commitment to health and safety.

The award was presented at the Dalhousie Legacy Awards ceremony on Thursday, November 20.

Dalhousie Medicine faculty receive Discovery Awards

Dalhousie researchers shone at the 23rd annual Discovery Awards on Nov. 20, 2025, with the Faculty of Medicine well represented among the honourees. Dr. Ejemai Eboreime (Psychiatry) earned the Emerging Professional Award for groundbreaking work in mental health and global health systems, while Dr. Paola Marignani (Biochemistry & Molecular Biology) was named Science Champion for advancing cancer research and equity in STEM. Professor Emerita Dr. Jean Gray joined the Hall of Fame for her transformative contributions to clinical pharmacology and medical education. Medicine’s impact extended to the finalist list as well, with Dr. Isabel Smith (Pediatrics) recognized for her leadership in autism research. Congratulations to all winners and finalists. Dalhousie’s contributions to science and innovation were truly front and centre.

Read more here.

Medicine faculty, staff receive Dalhousie University Teaching Awards

Congratulations to faculty and staff in the Faculty of Medicine who have been named Dalhousie University Teaching Award recipients, which were recognized at the 8th annual Dalhousie Legacy Awards event on Nov. 20, 2025.

President’s Graduate/Undergraduate Student Teaching Award: Jessica (Jess) Latimer (she/her), graduate student in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Academic Innovation Award: Clinical Cadaver Program
Dr. George Kovacs, Dr. Anna MacLeod, and Rob Sandeski, Faculty of Medicine

Award for Excellence in Graduate Supervision: Dr. Jan Rainey, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Educational Leadership Award for Collaborative Teaching: Case Diversification Working Group. Leads: Dr. Lynette Reid, Department of Bioethics; Leanne Picketts, Centre for Collaborative Clinical Learning and Research

Congratulations again, to all the winners!

Read more here.

Research in Medicine program presents awards

We are delighted to recognize the outstanding achievements of our students and faculty through the 2025 Embil Awards and RIM Excellence in Mentoring Awards.

Congratulations to Nick Dawe (Class of 2026) who is the recipient of the 2025 Embil Publication Prize for Research in Medicine (RIM), which celebrates the timely publication of research completed within the RIM program. Nick’s work reflects the rigor and curiosity that define the RIM experience.

Congratulations also to the Embil Prizes for Research in Medicine – RIM Day:

Best Podium Presentation: Samar Ali (Class of 2026), recognized for delivering a compelling and well-structured presentation that showcased strong scientific insight.

Best Poster Presentation: Joey Silburt (Class of 2026), honoured for an engaging poster presentation that demonstrated clarity and innovation in research communication.

These awards highlight excellence in scientific presentations and posters, marking important milestones in our students’ research journeys.

We also congratulate Drs. Craig Erker (DMNS) and Duncan Webster (DMNB), recipients of the RIM Excellence in Mentoring Award, recognizing their exceptional commitment to mentorship. Dr. Erker, a pediatric neuro-oncologist, is deeply involved in clinical research on pediatric brain tumors and leads multiple national and international trials. Dr. Webster, an infectious diseases specialist, combines clinical expertise with research on chronic viral infections and harm reduction, while actively teaching and mentoring across DMNB. Their guidance and support have shaped the academic and professional paths of countless learners.

The awards will be formally presented during the Class of 2026 convocation in May.

We thank all participants for their time and effort, and extend our gratitude to the RIM Committee for their support. Special thanks to Dr. John Embil for establishing these awards and to the Faculty of Medicine Advancement Team for their assistance in making them possible.

In Memoriam: Dr. Edwin “Ted” Roy Luther

The Faculty of Medicine is saddened to hear of the passing of alum and former faculty member, Dr. Edwin “Ted” Roy Luther on Nov. 15, 2025, at the age of 83.

Dr. Luther, who was born in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, graduated from Dalhousie Medical School in 1967 with distinction, after completing his BSc in Physics and Math in 1962. After a year of general practice in Baie Verte, Newfoundland, he returned to Dalhousie to complete a residency in obstetrics and gynaecology. His pursuit of excellence led him to Oxford University for advanced research in fetal physiology, supported by a Medical Research Council of Canada Fellowship.

He returned to Newfoundland and joined the faculty at Memorial University in 1974, before moving to Halifax in 1976, where he became a faculty member in Dalhousie’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. He also held an associate professorship in pediatrics. His leadership as Director of Maternal/Fetal Medicine and co-director of the Reproductive Care Program of Nova Scotia advanced clinical standards and integrated research into practice, strengthening care across the province.

Dr. Luther was widely recognized for his dedication to teaching, mentoring generations of medical students and residents with rigor and compassion. He was Life President of the Dalhousie Medical Class of 1967 and received numerous scholarships and honours throughout his career.

Dr. Luther’s research focused on maternal-fetal medicine, perinatal outcomes, fetal breathing movements, intrauterine growth retardation, and the development of clinical protocols for labour induction and fetal monitoring. He held major research grants and led multicenter clinical trials, and his work contributed to evidence-based practices that improved care for high-risk pregnancies. His scholarly output included numerous publications in leading journals and presentations at national and international conferences.

Dr. Luther’s distinguished career as a clinician, educator, and researcher profoundly shaped maternal and fetal health care in Nova Scotia and beyond. His legacy endures through the physicians he trained, the programs he helped build, and the countless patients whose lives were touched by his expertise.

He will be missed and remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Read his obituary here.

In Memoriam: Dr. Spencer Hon Sun Lee

The Faculty of Medicine is saddened to hear of the passing of retired faculty member in the Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Medicine, Dr. Spencer Hon Sun Lee, on Sept. 17, 2025, at the age of 88.

Dr. Lee, who was born and raised in Hong Kong, came to Dalhousie to complete his PhD in microbiology and immunology after finishing his undergraduate degree at McGill University. After his graduate training, he remained at Dalhousie, where he eventually became a professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and the Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine.

Throughout Dr. Lee’s career, he held various positions including director of the virology/immunology diagnostic laboratory at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, and co-director of the National Centre for Enteroviruses at the Canadian Health Science Centre for Human and Animal Health at Health Canada. He retired in 2004.

Dr. Lee’s dedication and kindness touched many and he will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

Read his full obituary here.

In Memoriam: Dr. Lisa Dickson

The Faculty of Medicine is saddened to hear of the passing of faculty member and Dalhousie Medical School alum, Dr. Lisa Marie Dickson, on Sept. 22, 2025, at the age of 44.

Dr. Dickson, a gifted surgeon, attended Dalhousie Medical School, graduating in 2007. She completed her residency in plastic surgery and a fellowship specializing in microsurgery and reconstructive surgery at McMaster University, followed by an additional fellowship in hand surgery. In 2015 she returned to Nova Scotia and began practicing at the South Shore Regional Hospital. Three years later, in 2018, she joined the Department of Surgery at Dalhousie as an assistant professor.

Dr. Dickson practiced with compassion, precision, and unwavering dedication. She brought technical brilliance and a deep humanity to her work that made her patients feel safe, seen, and genuinely cared for.

Dr. Dickson built relationships that transcended the workplace, forming bonds that felt more like family than friendship. To be part of Lisa’s circle was to be embraced fully with warmth, honesty, and a love that never wavered.

Her life was marked by courage. Whether facing personal trials or professional challenges, she met each moment with resilience and heart. Her strength was never loud, but it was unmistakable, anchored by the support of those she held close and the deep belief that love and perseverance could carry us through anything.

Dr. Dickson’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the teams she led, and the example she set. She leaves behind a community forever changed by her kindness, her brilliance, and her boundless spirit. She will be truly missed.

Read her full obituary here.

Dean’s Blog: September 2025

September 22, 2025 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

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.

Dean’s Blog: June 2025

June 9, 2025 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

It’s one of the most exciting times of year here at Dalhousie University as we celebrate the Class of 2025.

Convocation celebrations in the Faculty of Medicine began on May 9 in Saint John, with the Launch Ceremony honouring the accomplishments of our Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick (DMNB) graduating students. The festivities continued on May 30, when the Dalhousie Medical School Class of 2025 crossed the stage at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium. This remarkable class began their studies during an especially challenging time, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of them for all they have accomplished. We look forward to seeing what they will do next. You can read more about the journeys of some of our graduates here.

I would also like to extend my sincere congratulations to Dr. Sophie Gaube, who was awarded the Dalhousie Class of 2025 C.B Stewart Gold Medal in Medicine award for the highest academic standing in the graduating class. Dr. Gaube is celebrated for her outstanding academic accomplishments and her consistent demonstration of excellence throughout her medical education. Congratulations, Dr. Gaube!

Congratulations as well to Aran Thanamayooran, MSc graduate in epidemiology and applied health research, who was awarded the Governor General’s Gold Medal in the Natural Sciences and Engineering for overall academic excellence. Aran was recognized for his exceptional academic achievement and enthusiasm for research, and his remarkable kindness and unwavering commitment to ethical conduct.

Also recognized at the Faculty of Medicine convocation ceremony was Dalhousie alum, Dr. Franklin Sim, who was named one of three Dalhousie Honorary Degree recipients, the university’s highest honour. Dr. Sim is a globally recognized leader in orthopaedic oncology, known for pioneering limb-salvage techniques, custom implants, and groundbreaking work in pelvic tumor surgery. A dedicated educator and mentor, he has advanced equity in surgery by supporting women, minorities, and international scholars, earning the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ Diversity Award. His global collaborations, prolific research, and commitment to improving care have left a lasting legacy rooted in humility and service.

It’s very exciting that in less than three months we will be welcoming students to the Cape Breton Medical Campus. Thirty students have accepted positions which will focus on family medicine and rural health. Under the leadership of Dr. Jennifer Hall, the senior associate dean, all teaching positions for the Med 1 year have been filled with Cape Breton-based physicians. We are working to complete the roster of Med 2 teachers now. Students will start classes in the Marconi Building, with the new Cape Breton Medical Campus building expected to open in November 2025.

In 2026 I will complete my second term as Dean of Medicine, and as I look ahead to my final year, I want to express what a pleasure and privilege it has been to serve in this role and to work alongside such outstanding staff, students, faculty and alumni. It has truly been a fantastic job—made all the more rewarding by the exceptional people who make up this community. The search process for the next Dean is now underway, and I encourage those who are interested to consider applying. It’s a wonderful opportunity to lead a great team and contribute to a vibrant, mission-driven faculty.

As we head into the summer months, I hope everyone finds time for a well-earned break with family and friends, and takes the chance to enjoy the many wonderful experiences our beautiful Atlantic provinces have to offer.

The International Congress on Academic Medicine (ICAM), Halifax, April 3-6, 2025

The Faculty of Medicine at Dalhousie was pleased to partner with the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) to host the 2025 International Congress on Academic Medicine (ICAM) April 3-6, 2025, an event bringing together the academic medicine community from around the world. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to meet, network, and develop new relationships and collaborations with our colleagues from around the world. Drs. Eileen Denovan-Wright, Kirill Rosen, and Stefan Heinze provided outstanding leadership on the Health Research Advisory Group, helping to shape the research program. Mr. Heinze also contributed to the Board Invitational Advisory Committee, amplifying the learner voice in conference planning.

Dalhousie’s support was central to the success of the Health Research Awards ceremony, which recognized excellence in academic medicine and supported emerging talent through partnerships with the Gairdner Foundation and Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings. Dalhousie’s learner social event received high praise for its seamless organization and impact, emerging as a standout experience for students.

Dr. Ford Doolittle receives Lifetime Achievement Award from Genome Canada

Congratulations to Dr. Ford Doolittle, professor emeritus in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, who received the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award at the Canadian Genomics Summit in February.

Dr. Doolittle is a renowned molecular biologist whose groundbreaking research has significantly shaped the field of evolutionary biology. He is best known for his work on lateral gene transfer, genome evolution, and the concept of “selfish DNA.” His controversial 1999 paper challenged traditional Darwinian views by proposing that gene-swapping among microorganisms plays a major role in evolution, a theory now widely accepted. Despite retiring from teaching in 2008, he remains active in the field, with his book Darwinizing Gaia marking a notable milestone in 2024.

For his remarkable impact on genomic research, Dr. Doolittle was nominated for a Genomics Impact Award by Genome Atlantic, celebrating his enduring influence on science.

Read more here.

Plastic surgery resident receives prestigious National RDoC Award

Dr. Todd Dow, a fifth-year plastic surgery resident at Dalhousie University, has been honoured with the Resident Doctors of Canada (RDoC) Mikhael Award for Medical Education in the resident category. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to improving medical education for resident doctors in Canada. Dr. Dow is recognized for his innovative work in developing the Pre-Clerkship Residency Exploration Program (PREP), which helps second-year medical students explore various specialties through workshops, observerships, and simulations, significantly aiding their career decision-making process. Beyond PREP, Dr. Dow has been a leader in medical education, serving as chief resident, vice-president of Maritime Resident Doctors, and a representative on key faculty committees.

Dr. Dow was celebrated at a virtual reception in May 2025.

Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine students honoured with Dalhousie Impact Awards

Several students from the Faculty of Medicine were recognized for their outstanding contributions at the 14th annual Impact Awards on March 27. These awards celebrate student leadership in academics, student life, and community service.

Obinna Esomchukwu (Medicine) received the Rising Star Award for leadership, creativity, and commitment to the Dalhousie Student Union and the broader community.

Ava Maleki (Medical Sciences) was honoured with the Student Activist Award for her dedication to social justice and inspiring change. She also received a Dalhousie Student Union Gold D, alongside Alexandra MacNeil (Medicine), for their exceptional involvement in campus life.

Eshan Arora (Medicine) earned the Dalhousie Student Council Member Award, recognizing commitment to advocacy and innovation within student governance.

Sherry Eskander (Medicine – Graduate Student) was awarded the Faculty Leadership Award for her passion, leadership, and positive impact within the Faculty of Medicine.

Congratulations to all the recipients for their remarkable achievements!

Read more here.

Congratulations also goes to Dr. Tyler Herod, a recent grad and one of four students who received Dalhousie’s 2025 Board of Governors’ Awards. A dedicated student leader, Tyler’s unwavering commitment to empathy, mentorship, and advocacy has left a lasting impact on the Dalhousie community. From co-leading research on student well-being to championing accessibility in health care through his work with the Canadian Institute for the Blind (CNIB), Tyler exemplifies the power of compassion and collaboration. A recent graduate, he begins his ophthalmology residency in Alberta this summer, where he will surely continue to inspire through his dedication to improving the lives of others.

Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine receives university-wide teaching awards

We are proud announce that several members of the faculty were recently presented with Dalhousie University‑Wide Teaching Awards. These annual awards are presented to faculty, instructors, and graduate students to recognize their contribution to maintaining and supporting Dalhousie’s reputation as being a leader in higher education. Congratulations to the Faculty of Medicine winners:

Educational Leadership Award for Collaborative Teaching: Dr. Lynette Reid, Leanne Picketts, and the case-diversification committee

Under Dr. Reid’s guidance, the committee has redefined inclusivity in medical education, transforming the pre-clerkship Case-Based Learning (CBL) curriculum in the Faculty of Medicine. This monumental project has bridged significant gaps in representation, equity, and social accountability, setting a national benchmark for medical education.

Award for Excellence in Graduate Supervision: Dr. Jan Rainey

Over nearly two decades, Dr. Rainey has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating research environment. His mentorship style, characterized by patience, generosity, and a focus on independence, has left a profound impact on the careers and personal development of numerous trainees.

Academic Innovation Award: Drs. Anna MacLeod and George Kovacs, the late Rob Sandeski, and the Clinical Cadaver Program

Established almost 20 years ago, the Clinical Cadaver Program plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare practitioners by providing meaningful educational experiences and bridging the gap in procedural learning. It has transformed the Tupper Building into a hub for clinical cadaver education and embodies the spirit of forward-thinking education and contributes significantly to the advancement of medical knowledge.

Congratulations to all the winners. Read more here.

Medicine alum recognized during alumni days

Each year, Dalhousie awards the Golden Eagle Lifetime Achievement Award and Aurum Awards during Dal Alumni Days to alumni making significant contributions to society. We are proud to announce that two of the five winners this year are graduates of Dalhousie Medical School.

Congratulations to Dr. J. Donald “Don” Hill (MD’60, LLD’87), a distinguished cardiac surgeon, researcher, and inventor and the recipient of the 2025 Golden Eagle Award. A dedicated Dalhousie alum, Dr. Hill has advanced academic excellence through the Donald Hill Family Postdoctoral Fellowships, supporting early-career scholars on the path to tenure.

And congratulations to Dr. Allen Eaves (MSc’67, MD’69), founder of STEMCELL Technologies and co-founder of the Terry Fox Laboratory, who is a 2025 Aurum Award recipient. A leader in cancer research and stem cell biology, Dr. Eaves has transformed regenerative medicine and biotechnology through his visionary work.

Read more here.

Drs. Alex Quinn and Susan Howlett honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal by the Heart and Stroke Foundation

Drs. Alex Quinn and Susan Howlett are among recipients selected by the Heart and Stroke Foundation to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal, recognizing their outstanding contributions to Heart & Stroke and their unwavering commitment to heart and stroke research and awareness.

Dr. Quinn, who is a professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics and School of Biomedical Engineering, focuses his research on cardiovascular physiology and disease aimed at developing better treatments for irregular heart rhythms.

Dr. Howlett is a professor in the Department of Pharmacology and the Division of Geriatric Medicine. She studies heart contraction and its regulation, uncovering key differences between male and female heart cells. She pioneered the “frailty index” in aging animals to improve clinical aging research.

Drs. Howlett and Quinn will receive their awards at a medal ceremony at a later date.

Congratulations to them both!

Dr. Anuradha Mishra receives King Charles III medal from Canadian Ophthalmological Society

Congratulations to Dr. Anuradha Mishra who was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2024.

Dr. Mishra serves as an associate professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Dalhousie University, as well as the assistant dean of skilled clinician and interprofessional education in undergraduate medical education. She is a dedicated clinician-educator with a strong commitment to advancing education and awareness for both learners and health care professionals regarding patient care for individuals with vision loss.

Dr. Mishra has collaborated extensively with Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC) in Nova Scotia to create an innovative model for vision rehabilitation delivery in Canada. This approach allows patients from the Maritimes to be seen by both ophthalmology and VLRC staff during a single visit, utilizing a collaborative and person-centered methodology. Dr. Mishra is also an advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, and her scholarly work investigates gender equity in medicine and barriers to health care access.

AFMC celebrates achievements of Dalhousie medical community

Each year, the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) honours individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication in academic medicine. These national awards celebrate contributions that are shaping the future of health care education, research, and service. We are proud to congratulate this year’s recipients from Dalhousie University. Their achievements reflect the strength of our medical community and a shared commitment to advancing excellence, equity, and social accountability in health care.

Dalhousie’s 2025 AFMC Award Recipients:

AFMC Indigenous Health Advocacy Learner Award: Jordin Fletcher

AFMC Indigenous Health Advocacy Emerging Leader Award: Dr. Brent Young

AFMC Charles Boelen International Social Accountability Award: PLANS – Timi Idris

AFMC Young Educators Award: Dr. Anu Mishra

Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine presents annual awards

Each year during our annual faculty meeting, we present the Faculty of Medicine awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to education and teaching, community service, medical research, and continuing medication education. It’s my pleasure to congratulate the 2024 winners, who were awarded at the meeting on June 3, 2025:

Dalhousie Program Director Award, Innovation: Dr. Leanne McCarthy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Dalhousie Program Director Award, Leadership: Dr. Sasha Sealy, Department of Family Medicine

Faculty of Medicine Awards of Excellence in Education: Dr. Akram Jaffar, Department of Medical Neuroscience

Faculty of Medicine Early Career Award of Excellence in Education: Dr. Ashley Sutherland, Division of Clinical Dermatology & Cutaneous Science, Department of Medicine

Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Clinical Practice: Dr. Aaron Keshen, Department of Psychiatry

Faculty of Medicine Early Career Award of Excellence in Clinical Practice: Dr. Mark Robbins, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine

Faculty of Medicine Community Teacher of the Year Awards: Dr. Alexandra Pettit, Department of Pathology (New Brunswick) and Dr. Ian MacKay, Department of Psychiatry (Nova Scotia)

Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Teaching (PhD Faculty): Dr. Kim Good, Department of Psychiatry

Faculty of Medicine Early Career Excellence in Teaching (PhD Faculty): Dr. Sanja Stanojevic, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology

Dr. Allan Cohen Memorial Award for Community Service: Dr. Abraham (Rami) Rudnick, Department of Psychiatry

Dr. Wayne Putnam Award: Dr. Brian Moses, Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine

The Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Basic Research Award: Dr. Kazue Semba, Departments of Medical Neuroscience and Psychiatry

The Faculty of Medicine Early Career Investigator Award: Dr. Kara Dempster, Department of Psychiatry

The Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Research Mentorship of Trainees: Dr. George Roberston, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry

The Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Research Mentorship of Faculty: Dr. Stephen Bearne, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

The Faculty of Medicine Career Excellence in Research Mentorship: Dr. Martin Alda, Department of Psychiatry

Canadian Association for Medical Education (CAME) Certificate of Merit: Dr. Allen Tran, Division of Internal Medicine in the Department of Medicine; Dr. Jack Rasmussen, Departments of Critical Care and Surgery; and Dr. Stuart Wright, Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine

Dr. John Savage Memorial Award for Faculty Leadership in Global Health: Dr. Vincent Agyapong, Department of Psychiatry

Congratulations to all the winners! Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine presents leadership awards

On May 30, the 2025 Faculty of Medicine Awards of Excellence in Leadership were presented to this year’s recipients. These awards acknowledge excellence and recognize the importance of administrative leadership in the Faculty of Medicine. Through these awards, we are able celebrate the incredible contributions of all Faculty of Medicine staff and those in senior academic leadership positions.

The 2025 recipients of a Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Leadership are:

Award of Excellence, Professional & Managerial Leadership: Carolyn Doyle, director, admissions

Award of Excellence, Academic Leadership: Dr. Evelyn Sutton, associate dean, undergraduate medical education

Award of Excellence, Leadership in Administrative, Clerical & Technical Support: Julie Cummings (Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick)

Award of Excellence, Emerging Leader: Whitney Proulx, operations manager, undergraduate medical education

The Ryan Clow Team Collaboration Award: MedIT application development team, including Chris Emeneau, Tim Jordan, Natasha Mills, and Ron Soper

Valuing People Innovation Award (new this year): Tyler Hall, director of student and resident affairs

Congratulations to all recipients and thank you for your dedication to the Faculty of Medicine! Read more here.

Dr. Isabel Smith honoured with inaugural Lifetime Award in Pediatric Disability Research

Congratulations to Dr. Isabel Smith who was honoured with the inaugural Lifetime Award in Pediatric Disability Research from Bloorview Research Institute. The new award celebrates leaders whose lifelong dedication transforms the lives of children with disabilities. Dr. Smith, a professor in the Department of Pediatrics here at Dalhousie and researcher at the IWK’s Autism Research Centre, has dedicated her career to advancing autism care through evidence-based research. A leader in early intervention, she helped shape Nova Scotia’s preschool ASD program, led national studies like ‘Pathways in ASD,’ and contributed to key mental health initiatives for autistic youth. Her work has influenced autism policies and practices across Canada.

Read more here.

Dr. Stephanie Scott to receive honorary degree from MSVU

Congratulations to Dr. Stephanie Scott who received an honorary degree from Mount Saint Vincent University during spring convocation last month. Dr. Scott, who is an associate professor and division head the Division of Gynaecologic Oncology in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, is a leading physician, teacher, and researcher dedicated to medical education and removing barriers to health care for women.

Dr. Scott joined Dalhousie University’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2015 and since that time, has made significant contributions to gynecologic oncology. She has published 21 peer-reviewed journal articles and obtained over 1.7 million dollars in research funding for ovarian cancer.

Dr. Scott received the inaugural Standing Ovation award from the Dalhousie Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology for her contribution to resident education. She coordinated surgical skills and simulation for gynecology in the residency program and led the redesign of its lab-based surgical curriculum. Since 2018, she has served on the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons’ nucleus and examination committees for Gynecologic Oncology.

MSVU grants the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causa) to distinguished individuals who contribute to the betterment of society and humanity.

Faculty of Medicine student wins Three-Minute Thesis competition

Ahmed Ramadan, a PhD student in the Faculty of Medicine, won Dalhousie’s 2025 Three-Minute Thesis competition for his research on using light-sensitive proteins to regulate heart arrhythmias. Competing against 12 finalists, he impressed both the judges and audience, earning the top prize and the People’s Choice Award. His clear and engaging presentation used a vivid analogy to explain how arrhythmias disrupt heart function and how his research could lead to better treatments. Ahmed won $1,500 and will advance to the Eastern regional competition at Memorial University this month. This marks the second consecutive year a Faculty of Medicine student has won the competition.

Read more here.

Community Engaged Service Learning (CESL) program celebrates year-end

Second-year medical students, community partners, faculty and staff from the Office of Community Engagement (OCE), and many others gathered on Monday, May 5, 2025, to celebrate the ninth successful year of the Community Engaged Service Learning (CESL) Program. Dr. Evelyn Sutton, associate dean, undergraduate medical education and Dr. Shawna O’Hearn, director, OCE, welcomed attendees, acknowledged the students’ hard work and thanked our community partners for their important contributions to the CESL program. Students displayed their projects alongside community partners’ information allowing attendees to visit tables and learn about the important work that was done over the academic year. CESL faculty lead, Dr. Dan Boudreau, wrapped up the event by reminding everyone of the value of this service-learning program.

A similar closing event was held at the DMNB campus on Thursday, May 8, 2025, where CESL faculty lead, Dr. Marc Nicholson welcomed the group, and Dr. Lisa Sutherland, assistant dean, student and resident affairs, DMNB, warmly thanked the community partners and congratulated the students on their hard work and project contributions.

We extend our sincere congratulations to both the students and community partners for another successful year and commend the outstanding work and valuable contributions made.

More information about the Community-Engaged Service Learning (CEL) Program can be found here.

Dr. Toni Sappong appointed Interim Academic Director, Black Health

I am pleased to announce that Dr. Toni Sappong has been appointed interim academic director, Black Health, covering Dr. Leah Jones’ parental leave, effective May 19, 2025, and ending May 26. 2026.

Dr. Sappong is a family physician committed to serving vulnerable and marginalized populations to improve health equity. She completed her medical training at the University of British Columbia, and her family medicine residency at the University of Toronto before coming to Dalhousie as a faculty member in September 2024. She currently works at the Newcomer Health Clinic, which serves the refugee population in Nova Scotia. She is also the physician lead at the Nova Scotia Sisterhood, a province-wide, free program for Black women to access healthcare in their communities.

As interim academic director, Dr. Sappong will lead the Black Learners Admissions Pathway initiative for admissions to medicine and serve as the lead in co-developing and overseeing the direction for the Faculty of Medicine to engage African Nova Scotian and Black populations in the Maritimes. In collaboration with the PLANS manager, she will co-lead on appropriate supports for African Nova Scotian and Black students and residents in, or interacting with, the Faculty of Medicine.

Dr. Sappong will also offer advice on curriculum related to African Nova Scotian and Black health provided by the undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing professional development programs, and advise the Dean and Associate Dean of Serving and Engaging Society on matters related to the health and wellbeing of African Nova Scotian and Black communities.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Sappong on this appointment.

Cape Breton Medical Campus Appointment Announcements

On behalf of the Cape Breton Medical Campus (CBMC), we are pleased to announce five appointments to the CBMC leadership team: Dr. Annalee Coakley, Assistant Dean of Student and Resident Affairs (effective April 1, 2025); Dr. Alison Archibald, Director of Faculty Development (effective April 14, 2025); Dr. Sarah Mader, Assistant Dean, Clerkship (effective June 2, 2025); Dr. Steven MacDougall, Assistant Dean, Professional Affairs (effective June 1, 2025); and Dr. Abidemi Fasanmi, Director, Interprofessional Education (IPE) and Service Learning (June 1, 2025).

Dr. Annalee Coakley

After receiving her medical degree and completing a residency in family medicine at Queen’s University, Dr. Coakley began an impactful medical career serving in various capacities in communities across Alberta, Ontario and Nova Scotia. Her impressive career is the product of her dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of vulnerable populations, and advocacy for family physicians and their patients. As a result, Dr. Coakley has received numerous accolades including the 2024 Jean-Pierre Despins Award from the College of Family Physicians of Canada.

Dr. Coakley has also dedicated her time to enhancing the well-being and success of learners through various initiatives at the University of Calgary and the Alberta International Medical Graduate Association. Dr. Coakley has provided support to numerous students through a learner-centered approach, ensuring personalized guidance that is reflective of their unique journeys and goals.

As Assistant Dean of Student and Resident Affairs, Dr. Coakley will employ her expertise to provide support for students and residents on personal, academic, and career-related matters; including crisis intervention, academic remediation, and wellness support. She will lead career counselling initiatives and ensure CBMC students have access to resources promoting successful journeys through their medical education and careers.

Dr. Alison Archibald

Dr. Archibald is well-equipped to lead Faculty Development at the new campus with an extensive educational background- including two bachelor’s degrees (science, education), a master’s in business administration, an MD and residency in general surgery.

For over ten years, Dr. Archibald has served as a general surgeon at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. With numerous accolades for her contributions to teaching medical residents, Dr. Archibald’s proficiency for educating and leadership has been eminent since the beginning of her medical career. Driven with a passion for teaching, she maintains her own skills through continuous learning and professional development opportunities.

As Director of Faculty Development, Dr. Archibald will oversee the development and delivery of sustainable faculty development programs across all CBMC sites. She will ensure all faculty are provided with high quality faculty development opportunities and support academic career development for faculty involved in teaching and scholarly activities.

Dr. Archibald will lead this collaborative role through engagement with the local medical education community and Dalhousie University’s Continuing Professional Development in Medical Education Department (CPDME) to ensure a comprehensive approach to providing faculty development opportunities that support both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching.

Dr. Sarah Mader

Dr. Mader brings a deep and personal understanding of the Cape Breton medical education environment, having trained and worked at every level of the system. She earned her Doctor of Medicine from Dalhousie Medical School and completed her residency in Family Medicine in Sydney, where she also served as Chief Resident. Her experiences as a longitudinal integrated clerkship (LIC) student and, more recently, as LIC Co-Director for the Sydney site, have shaped her strong commitment to student-centered education and collaborative learning environments.

In her current clinical role, Dr. Mader maintains a broad scope of family practice, including obstetrics, urgent care, long-term care, and surgical assist. She has demonstrated leadership in education through coordination of simulation education, OSCE preparation, and administrative contributions to local medical education. Her advocacy and communication skills have been instrumental in supporting both learners and faculty, and she has earned recognition for her leadership.

As Assistant Dean, Clerkship, Dr. Mader will provide academic and administrative leadership for years 3 and 4 of the undergraduate medical curriculum at CBMC. She will work in close collaboration with clerkship directors, faculty, and health partners to ensure delivery of a high-quality, learner-focused program that meets accreditation standards and supports student progression. Her role will also involve faculty engagement, curriculum oversight, program evaluation, and strategic planning to expand clinical capacity and innovation in clerkship education.

Dr. Stephen MacDougall

A dedicated family physician with over four decades of service in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Dr. MacDougall brings a deep commitment to patient care, professional integrity, and medical education. He is a graduate of Dalhousie Medical School, completed his internship in Family Medicine, and has held his CCFP since 2011. Dr. MacDougall’s clinical experience spans emergency care, obstetrics, long-term care, and collaborative family practice. He is a founding member of Island Family Healthcare, a model of interdisciplinary collaboration in primary care.

Dr. MacDougall has also been an engaged educator for over 20 years, supervising residents and mentoring learners across professions including medicine, nursing, and nurse practitioners. His leadership experience includes serving as Chair of the Department of Family Practice at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, President of the Sydney Medical Society, and Medical Advisor for Primary Care Transition in Cape Breton. His longstanding advocacy for professionalism in medical education and his capacity to navigate complex stakeholder relationships are hallmarks of his career.

As Assistant Dean, Professional Affairs, Dr. MacDougall will provide leadership in fostering healthy learning environments and supporting the professional development of learners and faculty at CBMC. He will oversee processes related to learner mistreatment, promote professionalism across educational settings, and liaise with institutional and health system partners to ensure a culture of respect, accountability, and support.

Dr. Abidemi Fasanmi

Dr. Fasanmi holds a PhD and MPH from Emory University, an MBBS from Ahmadu Bello University, and an MA from the University of Leeds. With extensive experience in medical education, public health, and healthcare management, Dr. Fasanmi brings a strong foundation in curriculum development, interprofessional collaboration, and community-engaged learning to this role. As a Scientific Affiliate at the Centre for Excellence in Health Aging (CEHA) and a member of the Central East Zone Community Health Board, she is deeply committed to community health and advancing policies and programs that promote public health and health equity. Her work with academic institutions, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and community initiatives has consistently aligned with institutional goals and accreditation standards, reflecting key priorities of CBMC’s mission.

Dr. Fasanmi’s leadership in program development, faculty training, and stakeholder engagement has advanced interprofessional education (IPE) and service-learning initiatives. With expertise in communication, research, and program evaluation, she supports faculty and student development while translating research into practice. Her work with CEHA to strengthen health infrastructure in Atlantic Canada aligns closely with CBMC’s mission, and she is committed to building strong external networks to support IPE and service learning across academic and community settings.

As Director of Interprofessional Education (IPE) and Service Learning at CBMC, Dr. Fasanmi is responsible for designing, implementing, and promoting an IPE and service-learning curriculum across all four years of medical education at CBMC. Reporting to the Assistant Dean Pre-clerkship and working closely with the Director Skilled Clinician, she will ensure curriculum consistency and quality, and foster engagement with partners at Cape Breton University (CBU) and Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC). As Director, she will also represent CBMC on committees and promote its initiatives through conferences and professional development events.

Please join us in congratulating Drs. Coakley, Archibald, Mader, MacDougall, and Fasanmi on their appointments.

In Memoriam: Dr. George Carruthers

The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to hear of the passing of former faculty member and department head in the Department of Medicine, Dr. George Carruthers, on Dec. 21, 2024, at the age of 79.

Dr. Carruthers, a respected physician, educator, and researcher, obtained his medical degree from Queen’s University in Belfast, Ireland, followed by fellowship training at Kansas University Medical Center. His career spanned numerous prestigious institutions and roles, including professor and head of the Department of Medicine here at Dalhousie University, professor of medicine and pharmacology at London Health Sciences Centre and Western University, and Dean of Medicine at the United Arab Emirates University.

As a clinician, Dr. Carruthers specialized in internal medicine, clinical pharmacology, and hypertension. His commitment to excellence in therapeutics was reflected in his patient care, teaching, and contributions to pharmaceutical policy. He served in advisory roles for government agencies such as the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board (PMPRB), pharmaceutical company boards, and the legal profession on drug-related issues. He played a key role in advancing the disciplines of clinical pharmacology and hypertension through leadership positions in national specialty societies, fostering research, and mentoring future medical professionals.

Dr. Carruthers’ influence extended beyond the clinic and classroom, shaping policies and programs that strengthened accreditation standards for North American training programs and secured research funding collaborations with public and corporate institutions.

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Carruthers held various leadership positions, including physician-in-chief at Victoria General Hospital in Halifax and chief of medicine at London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Hospital. He was a board commissioner for Victoria General Hospital and served as president of Medical Staff. His legacy in medical education and administration was marked by a dedication to advancing patient care, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and championing health-related education at all levels.

Dr. Carruthers was a dedicated physician whose contributions to medical education, research, and health policy have left a lasting impact on the institutions and individuals he served. He will be deeply missed.

Read his obituary here.

Dean’s Blog: March 2025

March 20, 2025 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

The days are growing longer, and with them, we celebrate the official arrival of spring. It’s been a busy and exciting time in the Faculty of Medicine.

Dalhousie Medical School has been actively preparing for its next full accreditation of the undergraduate medical program. As part of this process, we recently completed a virtual Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS) review on February 17-20, 2025, which will be followed by additional in-person sessions on March 24-25, 2025.

We appreciate the ongoing commitment of our community to the accreditation process and look forward to incorporating CACMS feedback to further enhance our medical education program. If you have any suggestions or questions, please reach out.

I also want to congratulate the class of 2025 Class of 2025, who recently learned during CaRMS Match Day on March 4, where they will be undertaking residency training. 93 per cent of students matched during the first iteration and 84 per cent of Dalhousie residency positions were filled. We look forward to the second iteration of the match to fill these latter positions, and our Student Affairs team will be working closely with any unmatched students to look at options and help prepare them for the second iteration match which takes place in April.

Other major things to make you aware of are highlighted below:

Annual Spring Refresher celebrates 50 years

This year’s Dalhousie Annual Spring Refresher in emergency medicine event marks the 50th anniversary of this important learning activity designed to enhance knowledge, attitudes, and skills for the management of emergencies. Over the two days of content delivery, participants will hear from our region’s experts on topics relevant to assessed needs and informed by the best evidence available.

13th Annual Thomas and Alice Morgans Fear Memorial Conference

Healthcare leaders are facing more complexity than ever. How do we navigate uncertainty while staying grounded? Join us for Stillness in Chaos: Health Leadership for Complex Times at the 13th Annual Thomas and Alice Morgans Fear Memorial Conference. Engage with experts, gain new insights, and connect with fellow leaders.

May 15-16, 2025
Halifax Convention Centre

Dr. Sanja Stanojevic honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal by the Canadian Lung Association

Dr. Sanja Stanojevic is among 39 recipients selected by the Canadian Lung Association to receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal, recognizing her outstanding contributions to respiratory health. A leading respiratory epidemiologist, her groundbreaking research on lung function growth charts has transformed the diagnosis and management of lung disease worldwide. She plays a key role in national and international advocacy, serving in leadership positions with the American Thoracic Society and the European Respiratory Society. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she provided critical guidance on aerosol precautions, working closely with government and non-profit organizations. In Atlantic Canada, she has been a strong advocate for improved access to diagnostic testing. Dr. Stanojevic will be recognized in a virtual ceremony this month.

Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine members widely recognized in King Charles Medal Ceremony

Dalhousie University hosted a special ceremony on January 31 to celebrate recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, an honour recognizing Canadians for their significant contributions. Presented by Senator Dr. Stan Kutcher, who served as the Sun Life Financial Chair in Adolescent Mental Health and a faculty member in Dal’s Department of Psychiatry prior to being appointed to the Senate, the medals were awarded to distinguished Dalhousie researchers, administrators, and alumni for their impact in health care, research, education, and public service. Recipients from the Faculty of Medicine included:

Dr. Alexa Bagnell, Department of Psychiatry

Dr. Lisa Barrett, Department of Medicine

Dr. Margaret Casey, former Director of Admissions and Chair of Admissions Committee

Dr. W. Ford Doolittle, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Dr. Gus Grant, alumni; Registrar and CEO of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia

Dr. Vonda Hayes, former faculty member, Department of Family Medicine, and former director of Faculty Development

Dr. Orlando Hung, Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine

Dr. Andrew Lynk, Department of Pediatrics

Dr. Noni MacDonald, Department of Pediatrics

Dr. Harold Robertson, Department of Pharmacology

Dr. John Ruedy, Department of Pharmacology

Dr. Aidan Stokes, Department of Psychiatry

Read more here.

Dr. Ford Doolittle receives lifetime achievement award

Congratulations to Dr. Ford Doolittle, professor emeritus in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, who received the Genome Canada Lifetime Achievement Award at the Canadian Genomics Impact Awards Reception in Halifax on March 9, 2025. Nominated by Genome Atlantic, this prestigious award recognizes a genomics leader who has made significant contributions to the field throughout their career. Dr. Doolittle’s impact on genomics science has been profound, making this honour well-deserved. Congratulations, Dr. Doolittle!

Dr. Beata Derfalvi recognized by ImmUnity Canada

Each year, ImmUnity Canada recognizes those who go above and beyond through their Excellence Awards. The award is given to a Canadian healthcare professional in recognition for ongoing excellence in the field of patient care in primary immunodeficiency. This year, ImmUnity Canada selected Dr. Beata Derfalvi, a pediatric immunologist at the IWK Health Centre and head of the Division of Immunology at Dalhousie University, as their recipient. Congratulations Dr. Derfalvi!

Dr. Allan Marble appointed to Order of Nova Scotia

Biomedical engineer, genealogist and medical historian, author, and researcher, Dr. Allan Marble, is among the latest Nova Scotians appointed to the Order of Nova Scotia.

Dr. Marble is recognized for his impact on heritage, biomedical engineering, and medical history. He led the development of a province-wide genealogical network, conducted innovative cardiovascular surgery research, and advanced bioengineering. His multidisciplinary work has had a lasting impact both in Nova Scotia and nationally.

Read more here.

Drs. Ilie and Rutledge awarded by Candian Association of Psychosocial Oncology

Dr. Gabriela Ilie and Dr. Rob Rutledge have been awarded the 2025 Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology (CAPO) Innovation Award for their pioneering PC-PEP and Cancer-PEP programs. This prestigious award recognizes innovative initiatives that enhance psychosocial cancer care or cancer prevention in Canada. Their work has both driven significant improvements in patient support and expanded internationally, with growing adoption in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. This recognition highlights the programs’ meaningful impact, sustainability, and contribution to advancing cancer care on a global scale. Congratulations!

Dr. Andrew Makrigiannis awarded by Canadian Society for Immunology

Congratulations to Dr. Andrew Makrigiannis, who was awarded the Investigator Award from the Canadian Society for Immunology, recognizing his outstanding contributions to immunology research and mentorship. Dr. Makrigiannis, who is a professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and senior scientist at the Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, has made groundbreaking discoveries in Natural Killer (NK) cell biology, significantly advancing our understanding of immune cell function. His dedication to training and inspiring the next generation of scientists is reflected in the success of his trainees across academia, industry, and medicine. This well-deserved honour celebrates his exceptional career and lasting impact on the field of immunology and will be presented at the upcoming CSI 2025 meeting in Gatineau, Quebec in April.

Euphoria! raises impressive sum for Adsum for Women & Children

It was another impressive showing as Dalhousie medical students took to the stage for 55th performance of Euphoria! on Feb. 15, 2025. The highly anticipated variety show features all four medical classes showcasing their artistic, theatrical, and musical talents while competing for bragging rights and the coveted Euphoria! trophy. The event also serves as a fundraiser for a charity of the students’ choosing, and this year’s show, supported Adsum for Women & Children, an organization that provides shelter, housing, and support services for women, gender-diverse individuals, and children experiencing homelessness in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Each class delivered a unique performance: Med 1 presented Mean Girls (Medical School Version), a nostalgic look at medical school through the lens of the popular movie and musical; Med 2 performed The Multiverse of Medness, where students recruited doctors from across the multiverse to diagnose a mysterious disease and save Dal Med; Med 3 staged The Night Pat Murphy Died, a comedic mystery in which students worked together to solve the “death” of a classmate; and Med 4 delivered Into the Metaverse, a reflective journey through their brainstorming process and experiences over four years at Dal Med. After an evening of outstanding performances, Med 2 was declared the winner, with the event raising more than $60,000 for Adsum for Women & Children. Congratulations to all participants on this great success!

Breakthrough in heart treatment best practice sparks global rethink

Dr. John Sapp, a Dalhousie cardiology researcher, has led a groundbreaking study demonstrating that catheter ablation is more effective than medication as a first-line treatment for ventricular tachycardia (VT), a life-threatening heart rhythm disorder. Implantable defibrillators save lives by delivering shocks when the heart misfires, but the pain and trauma they cause have long been a challenge for patients. Dr. Sapp’s research, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, tracked 416 patients and found that ablation reduced VT-related shocks, emergency visits, and mortality by 25 per cent. His findings are prompting a global shift in heart treatment guidelines, offering new hope for patients like Nova Scotia farmer John Kell, who has been shock-free since undergoing the procedure in 2019.

Read more here.

Dal researchers publish study in Nature

A new study published in Nature by Dalhousie University researchers Kelsey Williamson and Dr. Andrew Roger sheds light on the origins of complex life. Using advanced computer models to analyze vast genetic datasets, the team pinpointed the Last Eukaryotic Common Ancestor (LECA), revealing that it lived over a billion years ago and was a single-celled predator with two flagella for movement and feeding. Their findings suggest that all eukaryotic life splits into two super-kingdoms, “Opimoda+” and “Diphoda+,” offering critical insights into the evolution of complex cells.

Read more here.

Dalhousie Launches Bold Campaign to Close the Gender Funding Gap in Medical Research

Women in science and medicine have long faced a persistent funding gap in research, limiting breakthroughs that could transform healthcare. In recognition of International Women’s Day, Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine is launching the Girls Just Wanna Have Funding campaign—a bold initiative to raise awareness and funds for a new research fund supporting women-led medical research.

Studies show that women in research receive significantly less funding than their male counterparts. A recent analysis found that female scientists, on average, receive smaller grants, despite producing high-impact research. This campaign aims to change that narrative by empowering researchers with the resources they need to drive innovation and discovery.

The Girls Just Wanna Have Funding campaign features exclusive merchandise, including bold statement t-shirts, with proceeds going directly to the newly established International Women’s Day Research Fund. Faculty, students, and supporters are encouraged to wear the gear, share their stories on social media, and spark conversations about gender equity in research funding.

Dalhousie is calling on the community to take action by purchasing campaign merchandise or donating directly to the fund. Every contribution helps advance cutting-edge medical research led by women and strengthens the future of healthcare.

Learn more here.

Dr. Lori Connors appointed Associate Dean, Continuing Professional Development and Medical Education (CPDME)

On behalf of the Faculty of Medicine, we are pleased to announce that Dr. Lori Connors has been appointed Associate Dean, Continuing Professional Development and Medical Education (CPDME), for a five-year term, effective April 1, 2025.

Dr. Connors, who is an associate professor in the Department of Medicine here at Dalhousie, has served as program director for the internal medicine residency training program since 2023. She has held key roles in medical education, including PGME communication skills lead and head of the skilled clinician unit. A past chair of CPD for the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, she has also contributed to CPD accreditation at the Royal College. She earned a master’s in education from Acadia in 2015.

Recognized for her contributions to education, mentorship, and service, she has received several awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (2023) and the CSACI Early Career Award (2016).

As associate dean, CPDME, Dr. Connors will lead the Continuing Professional Development and Medical Education Office, overseeing CPD programs, supporting medical education research, and advancing strategic initiatives. She will promote interprofessional education, technology integration, and the evolution from CME to CPD while representing the Faculty internally and externally.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Connors on her appointment.

Dr. Joffre Munro appointed Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education, Clerkship

On behalf of the Faculty of Medicine, we are pleased to announce that Dr. Joffre Munro has been appointed assistant dean, undergraduate medical education (UGME), clerkship, for a five-year term, effective March 1, 2025.

Dr. Munro, an assistant professor in the Department of Medicine, has been dedicated to medical education and mentorship since 2016. Previously an education lead at Saint John Regional Hospital, he joined Dalhousie’s Division of General Internal Medicine in Halifax in 2021. He has held several leadership roles, including associate program director for the core internal medicine residency (2023) and assistant internal medicine clerkship director (2022). He serves on the CSIM Education Committee and the Royal College Internal Medicine Exam Board.

Recognized for his teaching and mentorship, Dr. Munro has received multiple awards, including the Department of Medicine’s Excellence in Medical Education Award (2024).

As assistant dean, he will oversee the clerkship curriculum, ensuring accreditation standards, curriculum renewal, faculty development, and student assessment while collaborating with clerkship directors and health authorities.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Munro on his appointment.

Dr. Susan MacLeod appointed Director, Skilled Clinician Program, CBMC

On behalf of the Cape Breton Medical Campus (CBMC), we are pleased to announce that Dr. Susan MacLeod has been appointed Director, Skilled Clinician Program, effective March 10, 2025.

A family physician and assistant professor at Dalhousie University, Dr. MacLeod completed her medical training at Memorial University (2000) and a family medicine residency at the University of Ottawa (2002). She practiced in Newfoundland before moving to Nova Scotia in 2010, where she has been a dedicated preceptor and advocate for medical education.

With 23 years of clinical experience, Dr. MacLeod has shown strong leadership in family medicine and served as CBMC’s Family Medicine Special Advisor since 2023. She was awarded Dalhousie’s Preceptor of the Year Award (2023-2024) for her mentorship.

As director, she will oversee the development, implementation, and assessment of the Skilled Clinician Program, including OSCEs and clinical science integration. She will collaborate on faculty development initiatives to enhance clinical learning and assessment.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. MacLeod on her appointment.

In Memoriam: Dr. Brian O’Brien

The Faculty of Medicine is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former faculty member in the Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. D. Brian O’Brien, at the age of 93 on Feb. 19, 2025.

Dr. O’Brien was a distinguished ophthalmologist, community leader, and entrepreneur whose career spanned more than four decades. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from St. Francis Xavier University in 1952 and completed his medical degree at Dalhousie University in 1957. Following four years of general practice in Shediac, New Brunswick, he pursued an ophthalmology residency at McGill University and a fellowship in retina and ophthalmic pathology at the University of Toronto.

Dr. O’Brien practiced in the Department of Ophthalmology here at Dalhousie from 1965 to 2009, performing a wide range of complex surgical procedures, and restoring or saving the vision of thousands of people. His pioneering work in Atlantic Canada brought modern treatments for eye disease to the region, making him the first surgeon to repair retinal detachments and use laser therapy for retinal tears. Throughout his career, he played a pivotal role in teaching and mentoring ophthalmologists, leaving a lasting impact on the field.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr. O’Brien was a dedicated advocate for medical excellence and policy reform. He served on the Board of Examiners for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, was president of the Medical Society of Nova Scotia, and held leadership roles at the Halifax Infirmary and Victoria General Hospital. He also contributed to national medical policy discussions as a member of the Canadian Medical Association’s Political Action Committee.

Dr. O’Brien balanced his medical career with entrepreneurship, leading various business ventures, including Kerry Properties and a Dairy Queen franchise. He employed many Nova Scotians and remained committed to retaining staff through economic downturns. His deep Irish heritage inspired his longstanding involvement with the Charitable Irish Society of Halifax, where he served as president and chaired the Cultural Grants Committee.

Following his retirement, Dr. O’Brien dedicated himself to community service, spearheading the restoration of Holy Cross Cemetery in Halifax. As founder and chair of the Holy Cross Restoration and Historical Trust, he led volunteers in rehabilitating the site, securing and beautifying the grounds, and preserving its historical records. His efforts earned him numerous accolades, including the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and the Community Service Award from the Charitable Irish Society of Halifax.

Education and lifelong learning were central to Dr. O’Brien’s philosophy. To support future generations, he established the Dan and Margaret O’Brien Bursary Fund at St. Francis Xavier University and the O’Brien Award in Irish Studies at Saint Mary’s University. His contributions to academia and community service were recognized with honorary doctorates from both institutions.

A gifted pianist, artist, and gardener, Dr. O’Brien lived a life enriched by creativity and curiosity. His enduring legacy is reflected in the countless lives he touched through medicine, mentorship, and community service. He will be deeply missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Read the full obituary and listen to his eulogy.

In Memoriam: Dr. John Collins

The Faculty of Medicine is saddened to hear of the passing of former department head in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr. John Collins, on Feb. 17, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born in Kitchener, Ontario, Dr. Collins obtained his medical degree from the University of Western Ontario in 1960, followed by the completion of his postgraduate training in obstetrics and gynaecology. He then secured a prestigious R.S. McLaughlin Foundation Travelling Fellowship, which allowed him to study in the UK at University College Hospital, London, and the University of Edinburgh. Upon returning to Canada, he became a faculty member at Western University, where he directed the resident training program and was assistant dean of undergraduate medicine.

In 1977, Dr. Collins was appointed head of obstetrics and gynaecology at Dalhousie University, where he introduced a new era of evidence-based practice, applying epidemiology and biostatistics to clinical decision-making. Under his leadership, Grand Rounds became a forum for rigorous, data-driven discussion, and technological advancements, including the introduction of the department’s first word processor, marking a shift in research and administrative efficiency. His expertise in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, combined with his commitment to mentorship, had a lasting impact on the department and its trainees.

Dr. Collins’ reputation extended far beyond Dalhousie. He served as president of the Association of Professors of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (APOG) and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC), as well as chair of the Board of Examiners in Obstetrics and Gynaecology for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His academic influence led to appointments on the editorial boards of leading journals, including the New England Journal of Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology.

In 1983, Dr. Collins was appointed professor and chair of obstetrics and gynaecology at McMaster University, where he continued to advance clinical research and medical education until his retirement in 2000. His contributions to women’s health and fertility research were internationally recognized, with visiting professorships in multiple countries, advisory roles in global reproductive health organizations, and more than 200 peer-reviewed publications. His work shaped modern fertility treatments, including the safety and efficacy of hormone therapies and contraception, influencing both policy and practice worldwide.

Dr. Collins received numerous accolades throughout his career, including Fellowship ad eundem from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Francqui Foundation Chair from Vrije Universiteit Brussels, and membership in the Royal Belgium Academy of Medicine. In 2019, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in recognition of his transformative research in reproductive endocrinology and his dedication to evidence-based medicine in women’s health care.

Dr. Collins’ legacy will endure through the countless students, residents, and colleagues he mentored, the scientific advancements he championed, and the patients whose lives were improved through his research. His contributions to medicine will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Read his full obituary here.

Dean’s Blog: February, 2025

February 18, 2025 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

2025 promises to be another year of innovation and progress, building on the incredible achievements of our talented and dedicated Dalhousie Faculty of Medicine community. The strides we made last year reflect our commitment to serving our communities and tackling the challenges ahead. I look forward to the opportunities this year will bring as we continue to push boundaries, drive meaningful change, and shape the future of medicine together.

Beginning this week we will welcome a panel of national peers and medical education experts from the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS). When CACMS representatives join us on campus on February 17-20 and March 24-25, 2025 as part of the accreditation of our undergraduate programs, they will engage with faculty, students, administrators, and clinical affiliates to gather and verify information collected in advance of the visit.

As I have said before, thank you to our students, staff and faculty as we work through the accreditation process. We welcome CACMS feedback on how we can improve our medical education program. Please reach out if you have suggestions or questions. You can learn more about the accreditation process here.

And while we prepare for this important time, we would be remiss not to express our deep concern about the distressing events that took place at the QEII Emergency and Trauma Centre late last month, where three employees were injured in an attack. We extend our best wishes for their quick and complete recovery.

We recognize the impact this may have had on those present, including our residents, students, and faculty, and we are grateful to our department leadership, program directors, and support teams for their swift response in reaching out to those affected.

Save the Date: 13th Annual Thomas and Alice Morgans Fear Memorial Conference
The 13th Annual Thomas and Alice Morgans Fear Memorial Conference is happening May 15-16, 2025, at the Halifax Convention Centre. This year’s theme, Stillness in Chaos: Leadership for Complex Times, will explore how medical and health professionals can navigate complexity with new approaches to leadership.

Join us in Halifax for two days of thought-provoking talks and workshops.

Stay tuned for registration details!

Call for Submissions: Diversity in Leadership Fund
The Faculty of Medicine is committed to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in leadership. To support this commitment, the Diversity in Leadership Fund was established to help designated group members access leadership training and development opportunities. Investing in diverse leadership strengthens our academic and clinical environments, enhances decision-making, and ensures a more inclusive future in medicine.

This fund provides financial assistance for leadership training and conferences taking place between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. Eligible applicants must have a primary appointment in the Faculty of Medicine and belong to one of the designated groups, including African Nova Scotian, Black, Indigenous, Métis, Inuit, persons with disabilities, women, and individuals of minority sexual orientations and/or gender identities.

This opportunity is open to faculty and staff across all Faculty of Medicine campuses and sites. The submission deadline is March 7, 2025, with applicants notified by March 31, 2025. Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to reapply in future years.

Apply now

Medical Sciences program celebrates 10th year
One of the most sought-after programs at all of Dalhousie University is celebrating its tenth year.

The Medical Sciences program, which at inception was the first and only of its kind in the Atlantic Provinces, attracts more than 1,300 applications to fill its 120 seats each year. Its popularity is only surpassed by Dalhousie’s nursing and medicine programs.

Housed in the Faculty of Science but connected to the Faculties of Medicine and Arts and Social Sciences, the Medical Sciences program provides graduates with a broad biomedical science background, preparing them for professional programs, graduate studies, or careers in biotechnology and government.

Read more about Dalhousie’s Medical Sciences program here.

Second year medical student catches attention of GMA
RJ Roggeveen, a second-year medical student and Dalhousie Medicine’s first full-time wheelchair user, shared his inspiring journey with Good Morning America (GMA) in a video they posted on Dec. 16, 2024. RJ, who became paralyzed after a 2021 fall, has built a following of 25,000 on Instagram, where he shares resources, comedic accessibility videos, and motivational content. RJ has navigated challenges, raising funds for a specialized standing wheelchair that enables him to fully participate in training environments like the anatomy lab and operating room. RJ’s story, now reaching millions through GMA, highlights the importance of representation in healthcare, proving that creativity and support can break barriers. His experiences continue to inspire individuals with disabilities to pursue medical school and remind the healthcare system of the value of diverse perspectives in patient care.

Read more here.

New family of antibiotics could treat multidrug‑resistant bacterial ‘super bugs’
Researchers at Dalhousie University and the University of Toronto, in collaboration with pharmaceutical company DeNovaMed Inc., have developed a new family of antibiotics to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria, a growing global health threat identified by the WHO. Published in Nature Communications and co-authored by Dr. Christopher McMaster, the research highlights the antibiotics’ success in in vitro and animal models, including hard-to-treat infections, and their potential for multiple delivery methods. Using computer-aided drug design, the team targeted AcpS, an enzyme critical for bacterial survival, offering hope for new treatments amid rising antibiotic resistance. The next steps involve raising funds for safety trials, paving the way for human testing within 18 months.

Read more here.

Dal researchers unite to help tackle high epilepsy rates in remote Zambia
Dalhousie researchers, led by Dr. Alon Friedman, are spearheading an initiative in rural Zambia to address high epilepsy rates and reduce stigma through the Mfuwe Epilepsy Foundation. The foundation focuses on improving diagnostics, expanding access to anti-seizure medications, and educating communities about epilepsy care. Dr. Friedman and his team are training local health-care providers, utilizing portable diagnostic technology, and leveraging telemedicine to enhance care in resource-limited areas. Public-awareness campaigns and community education aim to combat misconceptions, while plans for a dedicated epilepsy center in Mfuwe promise comprehensive patient support. The team’s efforts also extend to Halifax, where a student-led epilepsy society raises funds and awareness, amplifying their global impact.

Read more here.

Dr. Karthik Tennankore to lead kidney research with help of donation from Dartmouth family
A transformative $1-million donation from Bob and Nancy Van Wart is set to advance kidney research in Nova Scotia, with nephrologist Dr. Karthik Tennankore leading the charge. The donation, spread over 10 years, will support innovative projects, including the integration of virtual reality technology to assess cognitive impacts of dialysis and wearable devices to study its effects on the heart. Dr. Tennankore emphasized that this funding will accelerate groundbreaking research that could significantly improve dialysis patient outcomes. The Van Warts, deeply affected by polycystic kidney disease, hope their contribution will drive new discoveries and potentially lead to a cure for future generations.

Read more here.

Cape Breton Medical Campus
Excitement continues to build for the Cape Breton Medical Campus (CBMC) as we move closer to welcoming our first cohort of students later this year. We have had strong interest in the campus and we look forward to distributing admissions letters to successful applicants at the end of March. Hiring for key positions is progressing, with recent leadership appointments marking significant milestones. As we prepare for the campus opening, we remain committed to working closely with physicians and the community to ensure its success in training future family doctors for Nova Scotia.

Department of Medicine 2023-2024 Annual Report: Foundations for Success
From skilled and dedicated administrators, clinicians, and researchers to the meaningful collaborations, innovations, and strategies that result from their work, the Department of Medicine’s 23-24 annual report, Foundations for Success, showcases the foundational people and approaches that uphold the department’s commitment to excellence in medical education and patient-centred care.

Read the full report on the Department of Medicine website to discover how these efforts – and the foundations that make them possible – are paving the way for healthier communities in the Maritimes and beyond.

Hold the Date: Annual Faculty Meeting
The Annual Faculty Meeting is confirmed for Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 5 p.m. Information on the format of this meeting (i.e., in-person or virtual) will be provided closer to the date.

In addition to any business referred to faculty by Faculty Council, the meeting will include:

i.          Election of members of Faculty Council
ii.         Election of members of the Nominating Committee
iii.        Report from the Chair of Faculty Council
iv.        Reports from the Dean and Associate/Assistant Deans
v.         Any business raised by faculty before or during the Annual Meeting

An agenda with background information including written reports will be circulated prior to the meeting.

If you have any questions regarding the Annual Faculty Meeting, please contact the Chair of Faculty Council, Dr. Simon Jackson or Megan Dixon.

Dr. Abir Hussein appointed Assistant Dean, Distributed Education
The Faculty of Medicine is pleased to announce that Dr. Abir Hussein has been appointed Assistant Dean, Distributed Education, effective November 15, 2024, for a five-year term.

A family physician and hospitalist in Yarmouth, Dr. Hussein has been a leader in distributed medical education, serving as a family medicine preceptor, Undergraduate Family Medicine Site Lead, and Postgraduate Site Director for South West Nova. She has played a key role in strengthening rural medical training and mentoring future physicians.

Dr. Hussein holds advanced leadership credentials from McGill University and has been recognized for her contributions with awards for excellence and mentorship. As Assistant Dean, she will oversee Dalhousie’s distributed education strategy, expanding training opportunities in rural and regional sites. She will manage key events like Rural Week and collaborate with the Office of Continuing Professional Development on faculty development for these areas. She will work closely with senior leaders to ensure the success of distributed education initiatives.

Please join me in congratulating her on this appointment.

Dr. Shanté Blackmore appointed Director, Indigenous Health
The Faculty of Medicine is pleased to announce that Dr. Shanté Blackmore has been appointed director, Indigenous Health, for a five-year term, effective January 20, 2025.

Dr. Blackmore, who is a Mi’kmaw and African Nova-Scotian family physician, was raised on the Millbrook First Nation reserve. Her cultural background and upbringing shape her advocacy efforts and deeply influence how she approaches her daily work. She is currently practicing at the Wije’winen Health Centre within the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre.

As director, Indigenous Health, Dr. Blackmore will report to the associate dean of Serving and Engaging Society and collaborate closely with key stakeholders, including the academic director for Indigenous Health and the director of Global Health. She will provide direct support for the development and implementation of Indigenous Health programming tailored for learners, faculty, and staff, ensuring alignment with Indigenous community priorities. Dr. Blackmore will be instrumental in advancing the Faculty of Medicine’s strategic plan, particularly in the areas of catalyzing systems change and partnering with communities to enhance health outcomes. As director, she will also uphold the Faculty’s responsibilities regarding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

Please join me in congratulating her on this appointment.

Dr. Mark Asbridge appointed Head, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology
The Faculty of Medicine and Nova Scotia Health are pleased to announce that Dr. Mark Asbridge has been appointed Head of the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology. This appointment is effective January 1, 2025, for a five-year term.

Dr. Asbridge is a Professor in the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and the Department of Emergency Medicine, Dalhousie University. Since joining Dalhousie in 2003, his research program has examined the areas of addictions, road safety, injury prevention and emergency medicine, and public policy, with a specific focus alcohol and drug-impaired driving. In addition to his work at Dalhousie, he has served on various boards and advisory committees at the provincial and federal level, as well as with the World Health Organization. He previously held the Mother’s Against Drunk Driving – MADD Canada Professorship in Impaired Driving Research and Prevention, and a Canadian Institutes of Health Research New Investigator Award.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Asbridge on this appointment.

Dr. Paul Rafuse Appointed Head, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences
The Faculty of Medicine and Nova Scotia Health are pleased to announce that Dr. Paul Rafuse has been appointed as Head of the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, effective September 1, 2024, for a five-year term.

Dr. Rafuse is a highly respected clinician, educator, and researcher in the field of ophthalmology. He is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Dalhousie University and has been a consultant at the IWK Health Centre and an active staff member with Nova Scotia Health for over three decades. His clinical expertise is focused on the management of glaucoma and cataracts, and he has played a significant role in the training of residents and clinical fellows in ophthalmology.

In addition to his extensive clinical and teaching commitments, Dr. Rafuse has contributed significantly to glaucoma research, with numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and international presentations. He has held leadership roles in national and regional ophthalmology organizations, including serving as President of the Atlantic Provinces Ophthalmological Society, the Canadian Glaucoma Society, and the Canadian Ophthalmological Society.

As Head of the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Dr. Rafuse will be responsible for advancing clinical care, education, and research initiatives within the department. His leadership will focus on enhancing academic programs, fostering interdisciplinary research collaborations, and strengthening regional and national partnerships in ophthalmology and visual sciences. He will also play a key role in strategic planning, faculty mentorship, and the recruitment and retention of top-tier medical professionals.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Rafuse on this appointment.

In Memoriam: Robert Sandeski
The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to announce the passing of Robert Sandeski, manager of the Human Body Donation Program, on Jan. 15, 2025, at the age of 52.

Rob, who was born and raised in Saskatchewan, came to the east coast after graduating high school to continue his education in funeral services. After 30 years of experience as a funeral director and embalmer, he started as a technician with the Dalhousie Human Body Donation Program, where he would eventually become director. Rob dedicated his life to ensuring that both current and future healthcare providers had the best possible training, leaving an extraordinary impact on medical education at Dalhousie University. He was instrumental in introducing the Halifax Clinical Cadaver Preparation (Halifax Prep)—the first of its kind in Canada and only the second in North America to use this specialized technique.

Inspired by innovative embalming methods observed in Baltimore, Rob traveled there to refine his expertise, bringing back knowledge that would transform procedural learning at Dalhousie. His efforts enabled cadavers to be used for up to eight weeks, significantly expanding opportunities for hands-on medical training. This breakthrough was a catalyst for the formal establishment of Dalhousie’s Clinical Cadaver Program, a resource that has since trained thousands of learners, from medical students and residents to paramedics and specialized healthcare professionals. The program, and Rob’s work, have provided the opportunity to practice complex procedures before performing them on living patients, directly enhancing patient safety and leading to improved medical outcomes.

One of Rob’s many lasting impacts was his role in establishing a dedicated clinical cadaver lab in the Tupper Building, expanding access for students, faculty, and healthcare professionals. He took immense pride in knowing that the work done in this space was saving lives, offering surgeons and physicians a place to refine their skills before entering the operating room.

Beyond his work with learners, Rob was deeply committed to supporting the families who entrusted their loved ones to the Human Body Donation Program. He took great care in guiding families through this process, ensuring they felt their choice was meaningful. Whether answering inquiries, coordinating memorial services, or simply listening to the stories behind each donation, he approached every interaction with empathy and respect. For Rob, it wasn’t just about managing a program; it was about honouring the lives and legacies of those who made the selfless choice to contribute to medical education.

Rob was passionate about helping others, and outside of Dalhousie, this was reflected in his work as a volunteer firefighter at Station 16 in Eastern Passage. Over 15 years he climbed the ranks, eventually retiring as station chief. He was an avid wood worker, gardner, and motorcycle rider, and cherished his family above all else.

At Dalhousie, Rob’s unwavering dedication, skill, and compassion shaped the training of thousands of healthcare professionals. His legacy will live on in every learner who had the privilege of working with the program he helped build. He will be deeply missed.

Read the full obituary here.

In Memoriam: Catherine Currell
The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to learn of the passing of Catherine Currell, former administrator in the Department of Medical Neuroscience, on Jan. 14, 2025, at the age of 69.

Catherine had a long career with Dalhousie, spending the first 25 years supporting her community at Dalhousie Legal Aid. She later brought the same commitment to the Dalhousie Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Physiology and Biophysics, and most recently, Medical Neuroscience, where she seamlessly supported faculty, staff, and students in achieving their goals. She was credited with revitalizing the Department of Medical Neuroscience by fostering a team approach and significantly improving morale.

Among her many accomplishments, she developed and implemented a systematic cost-recovery plan for the Clinical Cadaver Program, demonstrating her strong leadership and organizational skills. She also identified critical infrastructure issues that led to the renovation of the morgue in the Tupper Building and spearheaded the introduction of e-learning to the gross anatomy lab.

Catherine was deeply committed to helping others and consistently went the extra mile to ensure the success of those around her. Even after retirement, she often stepped in to assist her coworkers whenever needed. In recognition of her unwavering dedication, Catherine was awarded the prestigious Rosemary Gill Award in 2008, the highest honour Dalhousie University bestows on administrative staff, and in 2013, the Dalhousie Professional and Managerial Award, recognizing her outstanding achievements.

Catherine’s exceptional contributions have had an enduring impact on every department she’s been a part of, and she will be deeply missed by all who have had the privilege of working alongside her.

Read the full obituary here.

In Memoriam: Eli Joy Manning
The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to hear of the passing of Eli Manning, faculty member in the School of Social Work in the Faculty of Health and visiting scholar in the Faculty of Medicine, on Jan. 17, 2025, at the age of 49.

Eli joined the School of Social Work in September 2017 and quickly became a vital part of the school community. Drawing on years of teaching experience at three universities and her expertise in critical disability studies, queer politics, and health equity, she taught graduate and undergraduate courses on campus and online. Known for her dedication to students, she was frequently sought out for independent studies, helping them navigate complex theoretical, policy, and practice issues in social work. Eli’s energy for student engagement extended beyond the classroom to her role as Accommodations Officer, where she challenged institutional norms and advocated for resources that promoted equity for students, staff, and faculty alike.

Eli was a committed member of the School of Social Work’s Diversity & Equity Committee, contributing to retention policies now influencing the Faculty of Health. She also played a key role in advancing Universal Design for Learning and bridging School and University accommodation processes. Her ability to address systemic challenges with clarity and compassion, coupled with her optimism and practicality, made her a trusted advocate and change-maker.

In the Faculty of Medicine, Eli served as Visiting Scholar in Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility, where she enhanced anti-oppressive curriculum content and introduced white fragility clinics for faculty. She was also an associate research scholar with the Healthy Populations Institute and a research member of the Health Law Institute. Her research focused on ethics and health at the intersection of the body, weaving feminist poststructuralism, critical race theory, Indigenous thought, and critical disability studies to improve culturally responsive healthcare and dismantle systemic oppression.

Beyond her professional achievements, Eli was a vibrant and loving presence in her community. She was an enthusiastic rower, dog lover, skilled cook, baker, and crafter who brought people together through her infectious laughter and boundless spirit. Her life was a testament to creativity, connection, and social justice, and she leaves an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Read the obituary here.

In Memoriam: Dr. Philip Welch
Retired Professor of Pediatrics and Senate Member at Dalhousie University, and well known in the Atlantic Region as a consultant in Medical Genetics, Dr. Philip Welch passed away on January 21, 2025 at the age of 91.

Born in Macclesfield, England, Dr. Welch studied at the King’s School, Macclesfield, followed by Edinburgh University Medical School, graduating in 1958.

After RCAF service in Moose Jaw, he and his family moved to Maryland, where Dr. Welch earned a PhD in Human Genetics from Johns Hopkins University. Meanwhile, he accepted a position at Dalhousie University to pioneer their medical genetics program, and, with four children, the family returned to Canada and settled in Halifax in 1967. Dr. Welch went on to become Professor of Human Genetics at Dalhousie, and a Founding Fellow of the Canadian College of Medical Geneticists (1976). Within the community, he was an early champion of the Metro Area Family Planning Association, and also a leading contributor to research into inherited conditions such as Huntington’s Disease and impaired cognitive development.

Dr. Welch held leadership roles in the Dalhousie Faculty Association, Canadian Association of University Teachers, and Dalhousie Retirees and Pensioners. Outside of academia and clinical work, he pursued wine-making, earning his Sommelier certification. His theatrical passion, sparked at Edinburgh University, led to directing and acting accolades in Moose Jaw. In Halifax, he and his wife, Elvira, were regular Christmas concert performers, with Philip as a narrative reader—a role he continued with the Unitarian Universalist Church, where he also served on the board.

Dr. Welch was a powerful advocate for the rights of those whom he saw as being unfairly treated. This did not always engender friendships in some of the boardrooms where he took on these causes, but it did earn him respect from those who appreciated his battles for integrity, and he has left his world a better place than when he found it. That spirit of choosing what was right over what was popular will be missed even more in the generation he leaves behind.

Read the full obituary here.

Dean’s Blog: December 2024

December 3, 2024 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

As we approach the holiday season, it is exciting to reflect on all that has happened over the last few months.

In early November we hosted the Dalhousie Med Gala at the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel. It was great to see so many alumni gathered with current faculty and staff for an evening of celebration. We were excited to announce the recipients of a $2.5-million gift from the River Philip Foundation. Congratulations to Drs. Ken Rockwood, Susan Howlett, Leah Cahill and Scott Grandy who were awarded a Transformational Grant to support their work testing the effects of protein, blueberries and strength training on reducing frailty and improving heart health in adults aged 65-85, and to Drs. Tobias Kollmann who was also awarded a Transformational Grant for his work to assess the results of a remote monitoring system against traditional pregnancy monitoring that involves blood sampling and other more invasive methods. You can learn more about their exciting work and this generous gift here.

The gala weekend also included an awards dinner for the Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association where we recognized six worthy recipients, and the Dr. Fred Barton Visiting Scholar & Lecture in Ethics in Medicine. Thanks to the organizers and all who attended the weekend’s events.

Each year I have the pleasure of travelling to our teaching sites with our medical education and family medicine teams to meet with our students, residents, and faculty who are teaching and training around the Maritime provinces. This fall, we visited our teaching sites across the Martimes and it was a great opportunity to get feedback and discover innovations and opportunities in our teaching programs around the Maritimes and to meet and renew acquaintances with those who give so much to our Faculty.

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season. I hope you have the opportunity to rest, recharge and enjoy the company of family and friends. Thank you all for your contributions to the Faculty of Medicine.

Feed Nova Scotia
During this season of celebration, we must not forget those who are facing the incredible challenge of food insecurity. Our support is needed now more than ever. As in previous years, we have partnered with Feed Nova Scotia for a holiday food drive. Feed Nova Scotia distributes almost two million kilograms of food each year, with current economic conditions only increasing the demand on food banks.

From now until December 16, there will be a Feed Nova Scotia box at the main reception desk on the second floor of the Clinical Research Centre (5849 University Avenue) where you can place your donations for the food drive.

Feed Nova Scotia would especially appreciate nutritious food donations that help make up part of a main meal. Click here for donation suggestions. If you are unable to donate in person, please consider making a donation online or by calling 902-457-1900 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Undergraduate Medical Education Accreditation
Dalhousie Medical School has been busy preparing for its next full accreditation of its undergraduate medical program. We look forward to welcoming a panel of national peers and medical education experts from the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS) on February 17-20 and March 24-25, 2025, as part of this process. When CACMS representatives join us on campus, they will engage with faculty, students, administrators, and clinical affiliates to gather and verify information collected in advance of the visit.

Thanks to our students, staff and faculty as we work through the accreditation process. We welcome CACMS feedback on how we can improve our medical education program. Please reach out if you have suggestions or questions. You can learn more about the accreditation process here.

Annual Report
The Faculty of Medicine is excited to share its latest annual report, which highlights the incredible work of all those who contribute to its success. This report illustrates collective efforts and progress in addressing the healthcare needs of the diverse communities within our region.

The 2023 – 2024 academic year has been an inspiring chapter for the Faculty of Medicine, celebrating significant strides in medical research, continued transformation of admissions processes, and strengthening of our connections with communities across the Maritimes.

Click here to read the 2023 – 2024 Faculty of Medicine annual report.

Dean’s Retreat
I was happy to host the annual Dean’s Retreat on November 14 and 15 at the Hotel Halifax, where leaders from across the Faculty of Medicine gathered for strategic planning sessions. Our focus was on Valuing People, underscoring our commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and engaging environment for everyone in the Faculty of Medicine. Introduced as part of our strategic plan, Realizing Our Ambition, this stream of work emphasizes the importance of showing respect and appreciation for all who contribute to our collective success. Over the past year, the Valuing People Advisory Committee and its staff sub-committee have guided this effort, endorsing five priority actions aimed at enhancing the workplace experience. From improvements to shared spaces like the Tupper foyer to strengthening collaborative processes, our goal is to make the Faculty of Medicine a truly exceptional place to work and study. We thank all those who attended the Dean’s Retreat for their valuable contributions.

Johnston Chair closing ceremony
On November 28, 2024, we recognized the enormous contributions of Dr. OmiSoore Dryden, who will soon complete her tenure as the James R. Johnston Chair in Black Canadian Studies. She has profoundly impacted the Faculty of Medicine through in this role, advancing research and community engagement on Black health equity, challenging systemic racism and creating spaces like Chair Chats for Black students across faculties to connect and thrive. Dr. Dryden’s leadership, notably as interim director of the Black Studies Research Institute and co-founder of the Black Health Education Collaborative, has strengthened Dalhousie’s commitment to diversity and anti-oppressive health education, leaving an inspiring legacy as she transitions to her next role within the Faculty of Health.

Please join me in showing my immense gratitude to Dr. Dryden for all she has done for the Faculty of Medicine.

Dr. John Sapp published in New England Journal of Medicine
Dr. John Sapp, the assistant dean for clinical research here in the Faculty of Medicine, is the second lead author on a recently published study in the New England Journal of Medicine. Catheter Ablation or Antiarrhythmic Drugs for Ventricular Tachycardia reveals that catheter ablation is a safer and more effective initial treatment than antiarrhythmic drugs for patients with ventricular tachycardia and a history of heart attack. The study followed 416 patients for over four years and found that those who underwent catheter ablation had a 25 per cent lower risk of serious complications or death compared to those treated with drugs.

Read more here.

New Brunswick Medical Society awards faculty, students
On Oct. 5, 2024, the New Brunswick Medical Society (NBMS) hosted their 2024 Celebration of Medicine awards in Miramichi, NB. They presented awards to physicians, resident physicians, and students who have made positive contributions to patient care and the medical profession. Among the recipients were Dr. Robert Boulay, former assistant dean clinical education, Dr. Paul Atkinson, assistant dean research, and Class of 2024 grad, Dr. Daniel Hanscom.

To learn more about their awards, and the other recipients click here.

Faculty of Medicine student triumphs at international Falling Walls competition
Dalhousie graduate student Dina Rogers recently claimed first place in the Science Breakthrough of the Year in the Emerging Talents category at the 2024 Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin on November 7, which challenges participants to propose innovative solutions to global issues. A MSc student in biochemistry and molecular biology and Killam Predoctoral Scholar, Dina impressed the judges with her innovative bioengineered approach to degrade plastic waste. Her pitch, likened to Pac-Man munching plastics, offers a promising biological solution for recycling. Dina had previously won the people’s choice award at Dalhousie’s 3MT competition and is the second Dalhousie student in two years to win the top prize at Falling Walls Lab in Berlin.

Dina’s win comes after she, along with Faculty of Medicine students Alexa Wilson, and Melina Marketjohn took the top three prizes at the Atlantic Canada Falling Walls Lab competition. Dina won first place and the People’s Choice Award. Alexa, a PhD candidate in microbiology, presented a novel antiviral target in cancer-causing herpesviruses, while Melina, a second-year medical student, introduced a concept to enhance hearing aids by integrating them with the post-auricular muscle for directional sound detection.

Learn more about her work here.

Dr. Ruth Lavergne awarded at Family Physician Forum 2024
Dr. Ruth Lavergne was awarded the 2024 Family Physician Best Original Research Article Award at the Family Medicine Forum (FMF) held in Vancouver from November 6-9. Hosted by the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC), FMF is the nation’s largest conference dedicated to family physicians, offering a robust program of professional development, cutting-edge research presentations, and networking opportunities. Dr. Lavergne’s winning paper, titled Changes in Comprehensiveness of Services Delivered by Canadian Family Physicians: Analysis of Population-Based Linked Data in 4 Provinces, investigates the evolving scope of services provided by family physicians across various service settings and specialties in four Canadian provinces. Her research aims to highlight the areas where service comprehensiveness has shifted the most and examines how these changes vary based on physician characteristics, providing valuable insights for policymakers and health professionals seeking to strengthen primary care in Canada.

Congratulations Dr. Lavergne!

Dalhousie Medicine faculty receive Discovery Awards
The 2024 Discovery Awards, hosted by the Discovery Centre on November 14 at the Halifax Convention Centre, saw two outstanding innovators from Dalhousie University whose achievements are shaping science and technology in Nova Scotia receive awards. Dr. Finlay Maguire, assistant professor in the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, received the Emerging Professional Award for his research excellence, innovative thinking, and potential for ongoing impact early in his career. Dr. Gabriela Ilie, associate professor in the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, was honoured with the Public Impact Award for her groundbreaking work addressing societal needs and delivering tangible benefits to Nova Scotians, including advancements in healthcare and community well-being.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Dalhousie presents Legacy awards to Faculty of Medicine members
Dalhousie will present the annual Legacy Awards on Tuesday, December 17 at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium. The Legacy Awards, which inaugurated in 2018 during the university’s bicentennial celebrations, recognize individuals and groups for their exceptional achievements. The event showcases the outstanding contributions of Dalhousie’s faculty and staff, highlighting the university’s vibrant community and shared commitment to excellence. This year, the Faculty of Medicine proudly celebrates three of its members: Dr. Nikhil Thomas, professor in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology, is the recipient of a 2024 University Teaching Award; Tyler Hall, director of Student Affairs, is the recipient of the 2024 Dalhousie Professional and Managerial Group (DPMG) Award; and Dr. Aruna Dhara, assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine, is the recipient of the 2024 Dr. Allan Cohen Memorial Award for Community Service. Congratulations to these exceptional individuals on their well-deserved recognition!

Learn more about the 2024 Legacy Awards here.

Cape Breton Medical Campus: Leadership Appointments
Dr. Jennifer Hall has been appointed senior associate Dean, and Dr. Arlene Kelly-Wiggins as assistant dean, pre-clerkship, of the Cape Breton Medical Campus, marking a key milestone for the new campus, set to welcome its inaugural class of 30 students in August 2025.

Dr. Hall brings significant experience from her role as associate dean at Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, where she advanced longitudinal clerkship sites and increased family medicine interest among students. As a former College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) president and current chair of its Residency Accreditation Committee, she is well-positioned to lead this transformative effort in medical education for Nova Scotia.

Dr. Kelly-Wiggins, a native of Glace Bay, earned her MD from Dalhousie in 2015. She has since enhanced geriatrics services at Cape Breton Regional Hospital and will now oversee pre-clerkship curriculum delivery for first- and second-year students, collaborating with pre-clerkship deans at Dalhousie’s Halifax and Saint John campuses.

Thanks are extended to the Cape Breton Medical Campus planning committee, especially Dr. Kevin Orrell, who will continue as Special Advisor to the President of Cape Breton University on health-related matters.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Jennifer Hall and Dr. Arlene Kelly-Wiggins to their exciting new roles at the Cape Breton Medical Campus.

Dr. Carman Giacomantonio appointed QEII Ramia Chair in Surgical Oncology
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Carman Giacomantonio has been appointed the Gibran & Jamile Ramia Endowed Chair in Surgical Oncology Research, effective July 1, 2024, for a five-year term. A surgical oncologist at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, professor of surgery and pathology at Dalhousie University, and senior clinician scientist with the Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Dr. Giacomantonio has a distinguished career that includes pioneering intra-tumoral immunotherapy, establishing innovative cancer immunotherapy research with Dr. Paola Marcato, and collaborating with Sona NanoTech Inc. to explore Gold NanoRod-based hyperthermia for cancers like melanoma and breast cancer. As Ramia Chair, he will lead a world-class cancer research program, secure funding for innovative studies, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, mentor emerging investigators, and advance regional and global cancer research initiatives. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Giacomantonio on this well-deserved appointment.

Dr. Ratika Parkash appointed Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Outcomes Research
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Ratika Parkash has been appointed the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Outcomes Research, effective July 1, 2024, for a five-year term. A professor of cardiology at Dalhousie University and attending physician at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, Dr. Parkash is an accomplished researcher specializing in atrial fibrillation and cardiac implantable electronic devices, with a focus on improving management strategies, outcomes, and quality of life for patients. As chair, she will lead a program in cardiovascular outcomes research, foster collaborations, mentor researchers, and strengthen partnerships while advancing cardiovascular health locally and nationally. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Parkash on this appointment.

Dr. Lori Wozney appointed Sun Life Chair in Youth Mental Health
Dr. Lori Wozney has been appointed the Sun Life Chair in Youth Mental Health in the Department of Psychiatry at Dalhousie University, effective October 15, 2024. In this role, she will lead research to identify and improve mental health programs and supports that best meet the needs of youth, working closely with clinicians and youth with lived experience. Her work will inform the development of integrated youth hubs in Nova Scotia, offering comprehensive services such as mental health, addictions, and housing supports in a single location. The Chair enables Dr. Wozney to collaborate across disciplines, pursue long-term partnerships, and translate research findings to enhance mental health practices, ensuring culturally safe, equitable, and holistic care for youth. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Wozney on this appointment.

In Memoriam: Dr. Ron Stewart
The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to hear of the passing of professor emeritus in the Department of Emergency Medicine and pioneer of emergency and paramedicine, Dr. Ron Stewart, on Oct. 21, 2024, at the age of 82.

Born in Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia in 1942, Dr. Stewart’s journey in medicine was one of groundbreaking innovation and tireless service, beginning in the small community of Neil’s Harbour, Cape Breton, where he practiced family medicine. His contributions over the course of more than 50 years have left an indelible mark on the field of emergency medicine, both in Nova Scotia and across North America, and beyond.

Graduating from Dalhousie Medical School in 1970, Dr. Stewart’s career quickly moved into uncharted territories. His work as the first medical director of the Los Angeles paramedic program laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion for transforming emergency care. Dr. Stewart’s leadership in the field flourished when he became the founding head of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, where he turned challenges into opportunities for innovation in trauma care and pre-hospital services.

His career was marked by a keen understanding that healthcare is an ever-evolving field shaped by societal needs, and he remained committed to driving that transformation. As Nova Scotia’s Minister of Health from 1993 to 1996, Dr. Stewart helped establish Emergency Health Services (EHS), revolutionizing paramedic services across the province, and introduced stronger tobacco control. His visionary leadership earned him numerous accolades, including being honoured as a “Hero of Emergency Medicine” by the American College of Emergency Physicians and receiving an honorary degree from Dalhousie in 2017. In November 2023, he was elevated to the highest tier, Companion level, of the Order of Canada, having previously being inducted in 1993. He was invested as a Companion of the Order of Canada on March 14, 2024.

Despite these honours, Dr. Stewart always credited the mentors and colleagues who shaped his career, notably his early mentor, Dr. Robert Scharf. Dr. Scharf’s influence extended from Halifax to Los Angeles, where the two continued their work together, shaping the future of emergency care through education and mentorship.

Dr. Stewart believed deeply in the power of education and devoted his later years to training future healthcare professionals, ensuring his impact would be felt for generations to come. He served as Director of Medical Humanities from 2004 to 2009. In that role, he integrated the arts and history into medical study to promote creativity and empathy in the medical profession, through the Music-in-Medicine initiative.

Dr. Stewart’s legacy lives on through his philanthropic work, including a $1.3 million pledge to support emergency medicine research at Dalhousie University, inspired by his mother’s dedication to medical research through the Molly Appeal.

Physician, teacher, advocate, and change-maker, Dr. Ron Stewart was a pioneer whose legacy will continue to inspire a brighter future in healthcare. He will be remembered for his boundless energy, his transformative ideas, and his unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of others.

Dean’s Blog: October 2024

October 8, 2024 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

I hope all of you have had a great summer and some free time to enjoy the fantastic maritime weather with family and friends – it’s hard to believe we are moving into October and well into another academic year.

On August 25, we hosted our annual Dean’s Welcome Ceremony in Halifax and on September 13 we held the First Light ceremony in Saint John to welcome our first-year med students to Dalhousie Medical School and to the practice of medicine.

At the Dean’s Welcome Ceremony, we were welcomed by Catherine Martin, director, Indigenous Community Engagement, Ann Labillois, Elder In-Residence, Dr. Barb Hamilton-Hinch, assistant vice provost of equity and inclusion, Jalana Lewis, director of African Nova Scotian community engagement, and Timi Idris, Program Manager, PLANS, before students collectively read their code of conduct, and listened to the Hippocratic Oath. It was wonderful to see the Class of 2028 and so many of their friends and families in attendance.

Among those students who began their studies are the first students accepted under our Black Learners Admissions Pathway. Earlier this year we were thrilled to receive the first applications under this pathway. We are so happy to welcome each of you to Dalhousie Medical School.

I would also like to welcome our new postgraduate students across the Maritimes. It’s wonderful to see so many exceptional and bright minds choosing the Faculty of Medicine here at Dalhousie.

On September 4, 2024, Dalhousie University announced it was implementing a university-wide hiring freeze until at least the end of March 2025, as a result of an emerging financial shortfall for 2024/25. This announcement has created challenges for faculty and staff who were, or planned on, hiring a position in their department/unit I would like to thank everyone for their professionalism as we worked through the development of the Faculty of Medicine’s exception request process. I would encourage everyone to review the University Hiring Freeze FAQ for more information.

Cape Breton Medical Campus
Working together to make the Cape Breton Medical Campus possible has been an incredibly exciting and rewarding journey. Much work has taken place already, and yet there is much more work to do in the coming months as we prepare to accept the first cohort of students in 2025.

Those students will become much-needed and much-valued family doctors in rural areas across our province and join the ranks of the exceptional physicians already working in Nova Scotia.

On October 7, we were pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Hall and Dr. Arlene Kelly-Wiggins to leadership positions of the Cape Breton Medical Campus. These appointments signal an important milestone in the development of the campus.

Dr. Jennifer Hall has been appointed Senior Associate Dean, Cape Breton Medical Campus for a 15-month term. Dr. Arlene Kelly-Wiggins has been appointed Assistant Dean, Pre-Clerkship for the Cape Breton Medical Campus for a five-year term. Both appointments are effective immediately.

We look forward to continued engagement with physicians and community members in preparation of the campus opening.

Dr. Kenneth Rockwood named to Order of Canada
Dr. Kenneth Rockwood, world-renowned geriatrician, researcher, and academic, is among the 83 Canadians newly appointed to the Order of Canada. Dr. Rockwood is recognized for his outstanding research, collaboration and clinical care of older adults living with frailty and dementia, his long-term campaign against ageism in healthcare, and most notably, his development of the Frailty Index and the Clinical Frailty Scale, now used in health care systems worldwide.

Dr. Rockwood was named one of 16 newly appointed Officers to the Order announced by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada on June 27, 2024.

Two clinics in Mi’kma’ki providing learners with unique and valuable experience
For the first time, an Indigenous medical student and an Indigenous resident had the opportunity to work alongside an Indigenous staff physician, Dr. Brent Young, at the Wije’winen and Sipekne’katik Health Centres. This unique experience has provided medical student Jordin Fletcher and recent family medicine graduate Dr. Shanté Blackmore with culturally relevant mentorship and hands-on learning in Indigenous community healthcare. The clinics focus on anti-racist, trauma-informed care, offering traditional medicines and cultural programming. The initiative highlights the importance of representation and mentorship in addressing systemic barriers and fostering trust in healthcare.

Read more here.

Dal researcher leads national team awarded $3.5‑million CIHR grant to improve lung health
Canadians will learn more about their lung health and how to improve it thanks to a $3.5-million grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research for Dalhousie’s Dr. Sanja Stanojevic and a national team of researchers.

The five-year grant, called Harnessing Data to Improve Lung Health in Canada, will allow Dr. Stanojevic and her colleagues at universities in five other provinces to establish a national patient registry, link an international network of researchers to lung health data, and train the next generation of respiratory health researchers.

As part of the grant, the researchers will also work with the Canadian Lung Association and other partners to create an accessible screening tool called CAN-LUNG score, to help people assess their own lung health.

Read more here.

Recent graduate awarded by Medical Council of Canada
Congratulations to Dr. Aditi Sivakumar, who was named the 2024 recipient of the Medical Council of Canada Dr. M. Ian Bowmer Award for Leadership in Social Accountability. The award is presented annually to one medical student and one resident who have demonstrated leadership in social accountability within Canadian medical schools. Dr. Sivakumar, who graduated in May, is recognized for her exceptional dedication to improving the lives of underserved populations, especially women and girls, through her leadership and advocacy.

Celebrating Success: Dr. Adam Law
Congratulations to Dr. Adam Law who was recently awarded the prestigious Gold Medal by the Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society (CAS). This honour is granted to the person who has made significant contributions to anesthesia in Canada through teaching, research, professional practice, or administration and leadership.

Dr. Law’s impact on anesthesia is undeniable, with over 25 years of practice at Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Health. As a tireless clinical researcher, he has contributed significantly to anesthesia and emergency medicine through numerous publications and book chapters. His dedication has greatly benefited learners and patients, and he values his diverse career, clinical care opportunities, and supportive colleagues.

Read more here.

Faculty of Medicine presents leadership awards
On June 19, the 2024 Faculty of Medicine Awards of Excellence in Leadership were presented to this year’s recipients. These awards acknowledge excellence and recognize the importance of administrative leadership in the Faculty of Medicine. Through these awards, we are able celebrate the incredible contributions of all Faculty of Medicine Staff and those in senior academic leadership positions.

The 2024 recipients of a Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Leadership are:

Award of Excellence, Professional & Managerial Leadership: Dr. Shawna O’Hearn (Global Health)
Award of Excellence, Academic Leadership: Dr. Jennifer Hall (Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick)
Award of Excellence, Leadership in Administrative, Clerical & Technical Support: Rattina Dasse Nadaradjan (Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick)
Award of Excellence, Emerging Leader: Timi Idris (Global Health – PLANS)
The Ryan Clow Team Collaboration Award: Inclusive Pathways to Medical Professions – IPMP (Medical Sciences)

Recognizing, rewarding, and acknowledging faculty and staff for their contributions to the Faculty of Medicine is an important focus included in our strategic plan, Realizing our Ambition. We thank all of those who took the time to nominate a colleague.

Congratulations to all our exceptional recipients!

Celebrating future leaders in research: Resident research awards presented in June
Residents, faculty, and staff gathered on June 12, 2024, to celebrate resident research at Dalhousie. Held at the Dalhousie Art Gallery, the evening paid tribute to the accomplishments of resident researchers and the 37 nominations for 2024. Five resident physicians were honoured with research awards, and 13 others received scholarships.

Read more about the winners and scholarship recipients here.

Medicine faculty receives university-wide teaching award
Dal’s Centre for Learning and Teaching recognized outstanding faculty with the University-Wide Teaching Awards in June. Among the 10 winners was Dr. Nikhil Thomas from the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, who received the Award for Excellence in Graduate Supervision.

His research focuses on molecular and cellular microbiology, particularly on food and water-borne pathogens and ocean microorganisms. His lab has made significant contributions to these fields and has produced graduates who excel in academia, industry, and governance. Dr. Thomas is also dedicated to promoting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), actively participating in initiatives like the Dalhousie Graduate Student BIPOC mentoring academy. Congratulations, Dr. Thomas!

Read more here.

DMNB medical student recognized by Canadian Medical Hall of Fame
Madeline Power, a now third-year medical student at Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, has been recognized with the prestigious Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF) Student Award for her outstanding community leadership, innovative research, and dedication to advancing healthcare. Sponsored by the Canadian Medical Association, MD Financial Management Inc., and Scotiabank, this award honours 17 medical students across Canada who exemplify the qualities of CMHF Laureates. Madeline’s accomplishments include publishing peer-reviewed research, leading initiatives to improve sexual and reproductive health access, and founding the Kids Run Club in New Brunswick.

Read more here.

2024 DPMG Award for Outstanding Achievement
Tyler Hall, Director (DMNS), Student & Resident Affairs has been chosen to receive a 2024 DPMG Award for Outstanding Achievement for his commitment to serving students, operational excellence, and leading others.

From health and wellness programs, to producing video vignettes to simplify system changes for colleagues, Tyler is noted as creating an engaging and supportive work environment for his team and the Faculty of Medicine.

The Lancet
Congratulations to Drs. Curtis Marcoux, Luke Chen, PInkesh Thakkar, David Conrad, and Allam Shawwa, in the Division of Hematology on their recent publication in The Lancet.

It is always exciting to see clinical and basic scientists in this prestigious publication and a well-deserved recognition of the incredible research taking place at Dalhousie University and Nova Scotia Health.

You can read the full article, here.

Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association presents annual awards
The Dalhousie Medical Alumni Association (DMAA) recently presented their annual awards to several outstanding individuals. Congratulations to the winners:

Dr. Miranda Lees (MD ’22) received the Family Medicine Resident Leadership Award for her advocacy and compassionate care, inspired by her late mother.
Dr. Stephen Beed (MD ’87) was awarded Alum of the Year for his pivotal role in changing Nova Scotia’s organ donation laws.
Dr. Allen Finley (MD ’80) received the Exceptional Service Award for his work in pediatric pain management.
Dr. Deanna Field (MD ’05) was named Family Physician of the Year for her contributions to rural healthcare.
Dr. Brent Young (MD ’19) received the Young Alum of the Year Award for his leadership in addressing anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare.
Dr. Patrick Holland (MD ’20) was recognized with the Royal College Resident Leadership Award
Dr. Jean Cameron (MD ’83) was presented with the new Engagement Award for her leadership in alumni engagement and philanthropy.

Read more here.

Appointment of Dr. Stephen Miller, Senior Associate Dean, Medical Education
Dr. Stephen Miller has been appointed Senior Associate Dean, Medical Education for a five-year term, effective July 15, 2024.

As Senior Associate Dean, Dr. Miller will represent the Faculty of Medicine both internally and externally, providing senior leadership within the faculty, and act as the Dean’s representative, as required. Dr. Miller will provide program oversight to the Undergraduate Medical Education Program (UGME), the Postgraduate Medical Education program (PGME), Continuing Professional Development Medical Education Program (CPDME), Admissions, Office of Professional Affairs and the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS).

Dr. Miller will also hold the responsibility for the delivery and coordination of the Faculty of Medicine’s distributed medical education programs, particularly at the undergraduate level.

Dr. Miller is an associate professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine, and holds a cross-appointment to CPDME. He has served as the associate dean, Continuing Professional Development and Medical Education since 2020. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Miller was assistant dean for the Skilled Clinician Program and served as Director of Simulation for the Faculty of Medicine.

DMNB appoints Dr. Wendy Stewart Director of Faculty Development
Dr. Wendy Stewart has been appointed director, faculty development at DMNB effective September 16, 2024.

Dr. Stewart is a pediatric neurologist based in the Saint John area. She is passionate about teaching and has contributed to teaching across the medical education continuum since the DMNB’s inception. She believes in the importance of active learning and engagement and supporting faculty as an integral part of medical education.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Lisa Searle for her exceptional work as our inaugural Faculty Development Director. Her dedication has made a lasting impact on our community. As her term concludes, we wish her all the best in her future endeavors and express our sincere appreciation for her contributions.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Stewart. We are confident that her commitment to academic growth, expertise, and passion for faculty development will support DMNB in advancing our mission of excellence in education.

Dr. Katrina Hurley appointed Assistant Dean, Faculty Wellness
Dr. Katrina Hurley has been appointed Assistant Dean, Faculty Wellness, for a five-year term. This appointment is effective July 1, 2024.

Dr. Hurley attended medical school at Memorial University of Newfoundland. During her postgraduate training in Emergency Medicine at Dalhousie University, she completed a Master of Health Informatics and the Clinician Investigator Program. Early on, she shifted her clinical focus to pediatrics and has been a staff physician in the IWK Emergency Department since 2009.

In her new role, Dr. Hurley will provide the overall vision and leadership in defining wellness objectives and will promote healthy working and learning environments. Dr. Hurley will focus on courageous action, meaningful connection, transparency, and authenticity.

Dr. Tony O’Leary Reappointed Head, Department of Critical Care
Dr. Tony O’Leary was reappointed as head of the Department of Critical care for a second five-year term, effective Jan. 1, 2024.

Dr. O’Leary, who earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Dundee in Scotland, spent six years focused on internal medicine and gastroenterology, achieving Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians (FRCP Edin), before retraining in anesthetics and critical care. He earned his Fellowship of the Royal College of Anesthetists (FRCA) in 2009 and was a Founding Fellow of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine London (FFICM).

Dr. O’Leary contributed to the Canadian academic healthcare system by teaching simulation and presenting at conferences before transitioning to full-time practice in Canada. He was named head of the Department of Critical Care in 2018, and led the province’s critical care COVID-19 response, earning the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal from the Government of Nova Scotia. He successfully led the expansion of both the Nova Scotia Health Central Zone Department of Critical Care and the Department of Critical Care at Dalhousie, investing in research personnel to strengthen the academic mission. As department head and senior medical director for Nova Scotia Health, he remains dedicated to expanding and enhancing critical care services across the province.

Dr. Mary-Lynn Watson appointed College President
Dr. Mary-Lynn Watson, associate professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine, has been appointed President of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia. A graduate of Dalhousie Medical School, she serves as the Medical Director for Quality and Safety at the QEII. She is actively involved in numerous committees within the department, Nova Scotia Health, the Medical School, and nationally. She is a former president of the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians and former program director for the Certification in the College of Family Physicians Emergency Medicine (CCFP-EM) at Dalhousie. Her interests include evaluation, remediation, and quality initiatives.

Read more here.

June 2024

June 10, 2024 Jason Bremner Leave a Comment

Dean’s Blog June 2024

It’s one of the most exciting times of year here at Dalhousie University as we celebrate the Class of 2024.

In the Faculty of Medicine, convocation activities began on May 10, in Saint John, with the Launch Ceremony celebrating the achievements of our Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick (DMNB) graduating students. This was followed by the Dalhousie Medical School Class of 2024 walking across the stage at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium for convocation on May 28, 2024. The Class of 2024 began their studies during a very unsettled period, and I offer my sincere congratulations to each of them and all that they have achieved. We can’t wait to see what they do next! Read about the medical school journey for some of our graduates here.

I would also like to extend my sincere congratulations to Dr. Sara Folkins, who was awarded the Dalhousie Class of 2024 C.B Stewart Gold Medal in Medicine award for the highest academic standing in the graduating class. Dr. Folkins is recognized for her exceptional academic achievements, and her demonstration of the highest level of excellence throughout her medical education. Congratulations, Dr. Folkins.

Also recognized at the Faculty of Medicine convocation ceremony was Dalhousie Professor Emeritus, Dr. Michael Gray, who was named one of six Dalhousie Honorary Degree recipients, the university’s highest honour. Dr. Michael Gray’s groundbreaking work, particularly his validation of the endosymbiont hypothesis, established him as a pioneer in biochemistry and evolutionary biology. His decades-long career at Dalhousie University was marked by leadership, collaboration, and prolific research, earning him prestigious honors, including induction into Sigma Xi, The Scientific Honor Society, in 2024. Read more about Dr. Gray here.

And while we recognize the success of our students, we must express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to the faculty and staff who have guided them through their medical school journey to convocation. The day would not have been possible without them.

There is much happening in the Faculty of Medicine, and though many highlights are communicated here in the blog, I encourage each of you to sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter, which provides an additional opportunity to learn about upcoming events, news, and administrative changes.

As we move into the summer months, I do hope everyone has the opportunity for some well-deserved vacation with family and friends and is able to enjoy all that our beautiful Atlantic provinces have to offer.

Strategic Plan Town Hall: June 20

It has been over a year since we proudly launched our new strategic plan, Realizing our Ambition: Defining a New Era at Dalhousie Medicine. Since then, our collective efforts and commitment have moved us forward, and this is why I am pleased to invite you to join me virtually on June 20, 2024, at 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. for a Strategic Plan Town Hall to discuss the progress we have made, identify any gaps that may exist, and get your feedback regarding implementation of priority initiatives.

Please add this link to your calendar to join the town hall.

Realizing Our Ambition focuses on four strategic streams: Excellence in Education, High-Impact Research, Serving and Engaging Society, and Valuing People. During the town hall, our stream leads will present the great strides they have made over the past year and will be available for questions and comments. We also will have facilitated breakout sessions to get your feedback.

As we reflect on what has been accomplished with Realizing Our Ambition, it is essential to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of each of you who has worked to support our goals. I look forward to seeing you at the town hall, and to keeping you updated on our progress.

Thomas and Alice Morgans Fear Memorial Conference on Gender Equity and Shared Care

On May 27, 2024, we were fortunate to gather at the Halifax Convention Centre for the 12th Annual Thomas and Alice Morgans Fear Family Memorial Conference. A collaboration between the Faculty of Medicine, the IWK, and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, this important event brought together diverse interprofessional scholars and practitioners, decision-makers, and the public, to discuss gender equity and shared care, helping participants bridge the gap between understanding and practice. It was such a great opportunity for learning and collaboration. Congratulations to all those involved on such a successful event.

Province provides two years of funding for Cape Breton Medical Campus

In late April, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston announced operational funding for the first two years of the new Cape Breton Medical Campus, slated to open in 2025. The government is allocating $11.6 million over this period, with intentions to establish sustainable funding arrangements beyond the first year of operation.

RBC and Dalhousie partner to transform health‑care education

The RBC Foundation announced a $600,000 gift to Dalhousie University last month to enhance inclusivity within health professions over the next three years. This funding aims to increase the participation of African Nova Scotian/Black and Indigenous students by expanding the university’s existing programs. The supported initiatives include the Inclusive Pathways to Medical Professions (IPMP), Promoting Leadership in Health for African Nova Scotians (PLANS), and Keknu’tmasiek Ta’n Tel Welo’ltimk (KW). These programs are expected to benefit over 800 students, significantly advancing inclusive and accessible health education at Dalhousie.

Dalhousie medical school graduates opting for careers in family medicine

Half of Dalhousie’s graduating class will begin their residency training in family medicine this summer, marking a significant increase since 2018 when only 25 per cent of the class chose to enter a career path in family medicine.

Dalhousie’s Family Medicine program has also seen success, once again filling all available residency positions, a remarkable feat, especially considering the expansion of our residency seats from 70 in 2022 to 91 in 2024. While many programs nationwide face challenges in filling positions, this accomplishment is not merely fortuitous but rather the result of systematic changes implemented five years ago.

Medical students present at Dalhousie Student Success Summit

On April 29, 2024, Dalhousie’s Student Affairs Team and Dalhousie Libraries hosted the spring Student Success Summit on campus. Faculty of Medicine medical students were well represented at this event with Jordin Fletcher, and Mitchell Wright, participating in the keynote panel discussion on Dalhousie Student Leaders Engaging in Transformation Leadership, and RJ Roggeveen presenting a concurrent session on Stepping Outside of Student Leadership: Creating a Non-Profit Society. We are pleased to see our medical students excelling outside of their medical studies.

Medicine strongly represented in Dalhousie’s Board of Governors’ Award recipients

Congratulations to the 2024 recipients of Dalhousie’s Board of Governors’ Award, who have demonstrated remarkable leadership, advocating for marginalized groups, introducing innovative solutions, and actively engaging in community enrichment efforts. Nominated by their peers and selected by a committee comprising the president, Board members, and the vice-provost of student affairs, these individuals were recognized at the Impact Awards ceremony in March.

Among the recipients, Eshan Arora, fourth year BSc in Medical Sciences (Honours) student, and Gaurav Arora, third year, Doctor of Medicine student. We are so proud of all your hard work!

Faculty of Medicine presents annual awards

Each year during our annual faculty meeting, we present the Faculty of Medicine awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to education and teaching, community service, medical research, and continuing medication education. It’s my pleasure to congratulate the 2024 winners, who were awarded at the meeting on May 28, 2024:

Dalhousie Program Director Awards – Innovation: Dr. Cheng Wang, Department of Pathology
Dalhousie Program Director Awards – Leadership: Dr. David Horne, Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery
Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Education: Dr. David Gardner, Department of Psychiatry
Faculty of Medicine Early Career Award of Excellence in Education: Dr. Jaclyn LeBlanc, Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, DMNB
Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Clinical Practice: Dr. Michiel Van den Hof, Department of Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Faculty of Medicine Early Career Award of Excellence in Clinical Practice: Dr. Alison Dixon, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine
Faculty of Medicine Community Teacher of the Year Award: Dr. Kendra Gilmore, Department of Family Medicine in Sussex, New Brunswick
Faculty of Medicine Award of Excellence in Teaching (PhD Faculty): Dr. Ross Davidson, Department of Pathology
Faculty of Medicine Early Career Excellence in Teaching (PhD Faculty): Dr. Shawn Xiong, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Allan Cohen Memorial Award for Community Service: Dr. Aruna Dhara, Department of Family Medicine
Dr. Wayne Putnam Award: Dr. Babar Haroon, Department of Critical Care
Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Basic Research Award: Dr. Graham Dellaire, Department of Pathology
Faculty of Medicine Early Career Investigator Award: Dr. Alexa Yakubovich, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology
Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Clinical Research Award: Dr. Rudolf Uher, Department of Psychiatry
Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Research Mentorship of Trainees: Dr. Leah Cahill, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology
Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Research Mentorship of Faculty: Dr. James Fawcett, Departments of Pharmacology and Surgery
Faculty of Medicine Excellence in Research Mentorship – Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Dr. Sandra Meier, from the Department of Psychiatry
Faculty of Medicine Career Excellence in Research Mentorship: Dr. Susan Howlett, Department of Pharmacology

Dr. Vishal Uppal named Presidential Scholar Award Recipient

Congratulations to Dr. Vishal Uppal, associate professor in the Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine, who was recently named an American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine Presidential Scholar recipient. The award honors anesthesiologists who have significantly advanced regional anesthesia and pain medicine over the past decade, boasting strong academic backgrounds and high-impact publications. Dr. Uppal’s influence is evident through his roles in journal clubs, as an associate editor, and as a chair within professional societies. With over 60 peer-reviewed papers and extensive teaching experience, he continues to shape the future of anesthesiology and pain medicine.

Read more here.

Breakthrough Breakfast: Pioneering Possibilities in Cancer Research

Dalhousie is the hub of a world-class cancer research community in Atlantic Canada. More than 50 principal investigators lead a vigorous team effort, involving approximately 250 postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, research assistants, coordinators, and technicians. On June 18, 2024, join us for breakfast at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 where we’ll hear from three researchers who are working together and with partners across the region to understand cancer and find ways to better detect, diagnose, treat, and prevent this too-prevalent disease.

Learn more and get your tickets here.

Save the Date: Dean’s Welcome Ceremony

Please save the date and join us on August 25, 2024, to welcome the Class of 2028 to Dalhousie Medical School. This is always a very exciting event as a new class of future physicians begins their medical school journey. RSVP to carolyn.doyle@dal.ca by August 19, 2024. I hope to see you there.

Recognize your peers through People First

Earlier this year we were proud to launch “People First” a peer-to-peer public recognition program that allows you to informally recognize someone in your department, division, or unit, who exemplifies the Valuing People stream of work by:

Creating a positive work environment
Supporting career growth
Fostering wellbeing
Maintaining an affirming organizational culture

You can make submissions here, and posts will be shared on the Faculty’s SharePoint site and may also be shared broadly in the Dean’s Blog, Dal Med News, bi-weekly newsletter, and our social media channels. At the end of each month, a name will be drawn randomly, and the winner will be given a Faculty of Medicine branded water bottle.

In Memoriam: Dr. Robert Stone

The Faculty of Medicine was saddened to hear of the passing of retired faculty member and former head of the Department of Surgery, Dr. Robert Stone, on April 26, 2024, at the age of 83.

Dr. Stone, a native of Ontario, came to Halifax in 1993 and assumed the role of head of the Department of Surgery at Dalhousie, a position he held until 2006. Upon his retirement, he was appointed Professor Emeritus in the Department of Surgery.

Dr. Stone was well recognized for his excellence in teaching and his guidance and support shaped countless medical students, residents, and fellows. In 2006 the Department of Surgery announced The Dr. Stone Traveling Fellowship in his honour. The prize is awarded annually to the top resident at the annual research day and provides funds to aid in travel expenses to secure fellowship training after residency.

Dr. Stone was a remarkable physician and leader. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Read his full obituary here.

In Memoriam: Dr. Kimberley Marie Nix

The Faculty of Medicine was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dalhousie Medical School graduate Dr. Kimberley Marie Nix on May 8, 2024, in Calgary, Alberta at the age of 31.

Dr. Nix grew up in Pugwash, Nova Scotia, and attended Dalhousie Medical School, graduating in 2018. She went on to pursue her residency in internal medicine and master’s degree in epidemiology.

After a cancer diagnosis at 28, Dr. Nix continued to live life to the fullest, offering hope and positivity to many as she documented her cancer journey on social media. Passionate about helping others, she used her platform to spread awareness for sarcoma cancer and fundraise for cancer research.

Dr. Nix was an inspiration to many and will be missed by all those who knew and loved her.

Read her obituary here.