News

Earlier this week, the Faculty of Dentistry paid tribute to Dr. Joanne Clovis, who retired at the end of December 2013.

During a reception in honour of Dr. Clovis’ 25 years of service to the Faculty, Prof. Nancy Neish, Director of the School of Dental Hygiene, remarked that the celebration was held on a most appropriate date – February 4 is known in the Vedic calendar as the “Day of the Goddess of Wisdom.”

“Dr. Clovis is a prime example of one who has embraced our mission in academia, research and service, ensuring our students received a well rounded education,” said Dr. Tom Boran, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry. “She is one of the individuals I am proud to say has lived, supported and promoted this mission.”

After beginning her career in Alberta, Dr. Clovis went on to work and teach everywhere from the Northwest Territories to the British Virgin Islands before joining Dalhousie’s School of Dental Hygiene in 1988. She served as Director of the school from 1990 until 1995, earned her Doctorate of Philosophy in 2000, and also attained a full Professorship.

“Like other pathfinders she often chose the ‘path less traveled by,’ and indeed it made all the difference,” remarked Dr. Margery Forgay, former Director of the School of Dental Hygiene (and the person responsible for hiring Dr. Clovis). “Joanne's career in community health, health promotion, research, teaching and the development of our profession are truly awesome. Now there are new choices open and new paths to explore. She will likely redefine that traditional meaning of ‘retirement.’”

The Faculty of Dentistry wishes Dr. Clovis all the best in her retirement. However, we are relieved to know that she will never be too far away, as she has been appointed Adjunct Professor at Dalhousie.