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Volume 2 Issue 5
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N
ews and
E
vents
Exceptional individuals were recognized for their contributions to the dental profession, the dental community or the
oral health of Canadians at the annual CDA award ceremonies held in Ottawa in April 2015.
CDAAWARDWINNERS:
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE
Medal of Honour
The Medal of Honour is the highest award conferred by CDA. It is given to a dentist in recognition of a lifetime
of outstanding service and professional achievement to the benefit of the dental profession, the dental
community and society at large, and to whom significant change can be attributed. The breadth and scope
of achievement are significant factors in granting this award, as are the individual’s contributions to the goals
and objectives of CDA. This year’s recipient was
Dr. Gordon Thompson
of Edmonton.
Dr. Thompson
has devoted his career to
advancing the dental profession in Canada and
abroad. In his distinguished academic career,
he served as associate dean in the faculty
of dentistry at the University of Toronto,
and as dean of the faculty of dentistry at
the University of Alberta. He has been a
major influence in organized dentistry as
past-president of many national organizations,
including the Association of Canadian Faculties
of Dentistry and the Canadian Dental Regulatory
Authorities Federation, and as executive director
and registrar of the Alberta Dental Association and
College—a role he has performed for the past
21 years. Dr. Thompson is widely respected for
his leadership in guiding the profession through
complex issues over the years and for the inspiration
and mentorship he has provided to many dentists.
I would like to thank CDA for making the Medal of Honour award possible and honouring me in this way.
It is a signal honour to receive the support and recognition of one’s peers. Receiving this award underscores the
support of family, colleagues and staff.”
Honorary Membership
The Honorary Membership award is given to an individual (dentist or non-dentist) who has made an outstanding
contribution to the dental profession, the dental community, or the oral health of Canadians over a sustained
period of time at the academic, corporate, specialty society, council, commission or committee level. An
outstanding contribution at the national level is a principle consideration. The breadth and scope of achievement
is a significant factor in determining this award. The CDA Honorary Membership was presented this year to
Dr. Gilles Lavigne
of Montreal.
Dr. Lavigne
, dean of the faculty of dentistry
at the University of Montreal, has made
exceptional contributions to the
dental profession. As a researcher, he is
internationally recognized in the field of
bruxism and sleep disorders and leads the
field of orofacial pain research. Admired by
colleagues as an inspiring leader and excellent
communicator, Dr. Lavigne has guided the work
of international, national, and provincial research-
related organizations and has made outstanding
contributions to dental education at the University
of Montreal. On top of his many commitments in
research, teaching, and university administration,
he also remains a dedicated practitioner. In his
acceptance speech, Dr. Lavigne talked about the
importance of collaboration.
Our goal is interdisciplinary, we have to work all together. I always remind the dean of medicine that about
70% of Canadians, of all ages, are seeing one health care provider once a year—it’s us. We have an important
role in screening, detection, and in guiding patients.”