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W e are delighted to announce the appointment of

Professor Catherine Backman, PhD, OT(C), FCAOT, as the new department head of OS&OT effective January 1, 2012. We look forward to her insightful leadership as she takes the reins from Professor Tal Jarus (2006-2011) and Professor Bill Miller (interim 2011) in our continued pursuit of excellence at OS&OT.

Dr. Backman first joined UBC faculty in 1986 and is no stranger to leading the team as she has acted as head of the division of occupational therapy in three terms (1991-1993, 1998-2000 and 2003-2004) when occupational therapy was still under the umbrella of Rehabilitation Sciences with physical therapy. Dr. Backman is a seasoned and respected scholar within the field of OT, with particular expertise in the area of rheumatoid arthritis.

Here is a highlight reel of just some of Dr. Backman’s accomplishments over the years:

■ Has held over $7.4 million worth of research grant funding (as PI and/or Co-I);

■ Has contributed close to 200 publications and presentations;

■ Has won numerous awards and honours for teaching, scholarship, and service, including:

• Distinguished Scholar, Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (2009);

• Fellow, Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (2004);

• Muriel Driver Memorial Lectureship (2004; the highest honour of the CAOT);

• Award for Excellence in Interprofessional Education Teaching (2010);

• Killam University Teaching Prize (2002). ■ Canadian Arthritis Network (CAN) – Investigator; ■ Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI) – Affiliated investigator;

■ Longstanding Membership, Commitment to, and Involvement in professional organizations (e.g., CAOT, COTBC, BCSOT,CSOS).

Her tremendous experience and success in leadership, teaching and research will be instrumental in driving forward the vision and mission of the department in the coming years. We whole-heartedly congratulate Dr. Backman on her well-deserved appointment.