Shirley Schipper is Vice Dean, Education and Associate professor, Department of Family Medicine.
Drawn to administration and teaching since medical school, Shirley Schipper, '99 MD, set down roots within her alma mater to build partnerships and open up spaces for educators and learners as the future drivers of Canadian health care.
She combines her medical practice with extensive experience at Grey Nuns Family Medicine Centre, where she served as academic and medical director for more than 15 years. During her tenure as director of the University of Alberta's family medicine residency program, she spearheaded its transition towards competency-based medical education (CBME), innovating towards defined outcomes for highly skilled trainees.
A recognized leader in medical education, teaching, learning strategies and faculty coaching, Schipper collaborates nationally with the College of Family Physicians of Canada, and travels around the world to learn from others.
"We should keep open to the world, but also let everyone know our story-who we are-and keep our communities aware and proud of the U of A."
Drawing on her background in family medicine, Schipper is an active listener and strong relationship builder. Appointed as vice dean, education, commencing July 1, 2017, she envisions students at the centre of the faculty's activities.
"Learners are the future leaders. They should always be at the table and take part in everything we do."