New Scholarship Encourages Excellence in Cardiovascular Research

A new scholarship in the Faculty of Medicine will help foster the next generation of clinician-researchers while celebrating the remarkable career and generosity of distinguished alum Dr. Anne M. Gillis (Dalhousie MD ’79).

The Dr. Anne M. Gillis Scholarship for Cardiovascular Research will be awarded annually to a third- or fourth-year medical student in Dalhousie’s undergraduate MD program who demonstrates strong academic achievement and a significant interest in cardiovascular research. 

The scholarship recognizes the essential role that research plays in medical education and aims to encourage students to pursue the integration of scientific discovery with clinical practice.

A graduate of Dalhousie’s Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Gillis has built an internationally renowned career as a clinician-scientist, educator, and leader in cardiac electrophysiology.  

Her research has advanced our understanding of the mechanisms underlying cardiac arrhythmias and contributed to innovations that have improved the diagnoses and treatment of heart rhythm disorders. Throughout her career, she has championed the value of rigorous scientific inquiry alongside exceptional patient care, demonstrating the profound impact clinician-researchers can have on health outcomes.  

Beyond her scientific achievements, Dr. Gillis is widely respected for her commitment to mentorship and leadership. She has inspired generations of cardiologists and cardiovascular researchers through her guidance, collaboration, and dedication to excellence, and continues to impact the profession as Professor Emerita in the Department of Cardiac Sciences at the University of Calgary.

This new scholarship reflects the values that have defined Dr. Gillis’s career: curiosity, scholarship, innovation, and a commitment to improving the lives of patients. By supporting medical students who are excelling academically and exploring cardiovascular research, the award will help cultivate future physicians who are equipped not only to deliver outstanding care, but also to generate new knowledge that advances medicine.

The establishment of the Dr. Anne M. Gillis Scholarship for Cardiovascular Research is also a meaningful example of alumni-driven philanthropy. Through her generosity, Dr. Gillis is creating opportunities for future generations of Dalhousie medical students and strengthening the Faculty’s tradition of research excellence. Her gift is an investment in the future of cardiovascular discovery and in the talented clinician-researchers who will help shape it.