Dave Patterson and Zahra Shajani appointed nursing undergraduate associate deans

Associate Dean, Undergraduate Practice Education

I am pleased to share that Dave Patterson has accepted an appointment as Associate Dean, Undergraduate Practice Education for a five-year term, commencing on July 1, 2025.

Dave has been a dedicated member of the University of Calgary Faculty of Nursing since 2011. He currently holds the position of Assistant Professor (Teaching) after a distinguished career that included roles as a Community Health Educator for the Calgary Zone Perinatal Education Program and a Level ll NICU Nurse within Alberta Health Services. While working with students in congregate living facilities, Dave developed a passion for working with individuals experiencing dementia, their families, students, and staff, advocating for respectful family-centered care as the standard and is currently the President of the Alberta Gerontological Nurses Association.

Throughout his tenure, Dave has been actively involved in teaching across all terms of the undergraduate nursing curriculum. His current focus lies on guiding students through the transition from students to professional practice as nurses. 

Associate Dean, Undergraduate Program 

I am pleased to share that Dr. Zahra Shajani has accepted an appointment as Associate Dean, Undergraduate Program for a five-year term, commencing on July 1, 2025.  

Zahra has been a dedicated member of the University of Calgary Faculty of Nursing since 2011, currently serving as an Associate Professor and Interim Associate Dean, Undergraduate Program.  

Zahra is an advocate for health promotion and injury prevention, with a focus on diverse individuals and families, particularly those with young children and varying socio-economic backgrounds. She is actively involved in organizations focused on health, wellness, and education, and serves as the President of the Ismaili Council for the Prairies and former Chairman of the Aga Khan Health Board. Zahra also co-chairs the Global Network of Public Health Nursing (GNPHN) and is a board member for Generations Calgary, supporting multi-generational initiatives. 

Both have been serving in their respective roles on an interim basis since July 1, 2024, and their expertise and insights will be invaluable in maintaining continuity and driving excellence in our undergraduate programs and practice education. Please join me in congratulating them on their appointments!

 

Dr. Catherine Laing, RN, PhD 
Dean, UCalgary Nursing