Dr. Catherine Laing appointed interim dean, Faculty of Nursing

I am very pleased to announce that Dr. Catherine Laing has been appointed interim dean of the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Nursing for a 12-month term starting July 1, 2024.

Dr. Laing has served as associate dean, undergraduate programs, in the Faculty of Nursing since 2018 and previously served as acting dean in the fall of 2023. Dr. Laing has been working in the field of pediatric oncology nursing for 25 years and holds a PhD as well as a Master of Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing, and Bachelor of Physical Education from UCalgary. 

Dr. Laing’s research is in the field of paediatric oncology, and, more recently, in undergraduate nursing program planning. Dr. Laing’s current research interests lie in lottery-based admission processes in undergraduate nursing education, and the role of technology for evaluation and clinical feedback. She is active at the local, national, and international levels of pediatric oncology nursing and undergraduate nursing education. 

I would like to thank Dr. Sandra Davidson, PhD, MSN, RN, FAAN, FCAN, for her excellent leadership as dean of the faculty since 2018. Amongst her many accomplishments, under her leadership, the Faculty of Nursing more than doubled its graduate enrolment, launched a revised undergraduate curriculum, and strengthened pathways for students from rural/remote and Indigenous communities to pursue undergraduate nursing degrees. Dr. Davidson’s term as dean ends on June 30 as she moves into her role as provost and vice-president (academic). 

Please join me in warmly welcoming Dr. Laing as interim dean and thanking Dr. Davidson for her service to the Faculty of Nursing.

Penny Werthner, PhD 
Interim Provost and Vice-President (Academic)