I am pleased to announce that, on March 16, 2018, the Board of Governors approved the appointment of the next dean for the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. Dr. Robert (Bob) Haennel has been appointed for a five year term, effective July 1, 2018.
Over the last 13 years, Dr. Haennel has served the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine in a number of capacities, starting with his 2005 appointment as chair and professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, then moving into the role of acting dean from 2012 to 2014 and interim dean in 2014.Throughout his service to the faculty, Dr. Haennel has advanced the faculty's profile through innovative teaching, world class research, community engagement and global partnerships.
Dr. Haennel's outstanding administrative skills have resulted in transformative change in a number of the faculty's units, including the Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic, the Institute for Stuttering Treatment and Research and the Continuing Professional Education office. Under his supervision, the Continuing Professional Education program has expanded the global reach of the faculty by attracting more than 1,000 participants from 20 countries to take part in webcasts, workshops and distance-education certificate programs. At the same time, the innovations made at the Glen Sather Sports Medical Clinic have resulted in new programs and services that have attracted over 70,000 patient visits per year, thereby promoting the Clinic as one of Western Canada's leaders in interdisciplinary sports medicine and musculoskeletal care. Dr. Haennel oversaw the establishment of occupational therapy and physical therapy satellite programs in Calgary and a physical therapy satellite program at Augustana Campus. He has also put in place a number of strategies that have enabled the faculty to exceed its fundraising goals for the past four years.
Under his guidance, the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine developed a new strategic plan for 2017-2020, "Advancing the Art & Science of Rehabilitation." Building on the faculty's culture, research, educational experiences and profile, Dr. Haennel plans for the future include meeting the public's increasing needs for personalized rehabilitation care.
Please join me in congratulating Dr. Haennel on his appointment. My thanks to the members of the Dean Selection Committee for their hard work and commitment, as well as to all those who participated in the selection process.
Steven Dew
Provost and Vice-President (Academic)