Joan K. Edwards Award
Purpose:
The award recognizes the contributions of recent physiotherapy graduates and new members of the profession.
History:
Joan Edwards was a graduate of St. Thomas School of Physiotherapy in London, England. In the late 50's she joined an influx of British trained therapists to Canada. Arriving in Winnipeg, Joan took up the challenge of designing, equipping and subsequently staffing the physiotherapy department at the Manitoba Rehabilitation Hospital, which was administered by the Sanatorium Board of Manitoba at that time.
Joan's influence on all levels was significant. Much could be said about her contribution to the development of the physiotherapy profession. She participated in the activities of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association at both the provincial and national level and was held in high regard by those who worked with her both locally and across the country. Examples of her contributions include acting as Congress Co-Chair for the committee planning the 1975 National Congress in Winnipeg, delivering the Enid Graham Memorial Lecture at the 1987 National Congress in St. John, New Brunswick and receiving an honorary life membership in the Association.
Joan possessed a combination of strong leadership while caring greatly about the individual human being. She headed the Rehabilitation Departments at Health Sciences Centre with graciousness and poise.
The Award:
The award is a framed recognition certificate, which will be presented at the MPA Annual General Meeting.
Criteria:
The nominee must meet the following criteria:
1. Be a member in good standing of CPA and the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba.
2. Demonstrate professional involvement and/or leadership within the profession and the association on a provincial level.
3. Be recognized for outstanding promotion of the profession in his/her area/facility. The nominee may be recognized for development of new or innovative programs or initiatives in their area or facility.
Nominating Process:
1. The call for nominations will take place in September each year through an advertisement in the MPA newsletter “PhysioConnection” via the website and on social media platforms. The MPA must receive the application by January 31.
2. Anyone may make a nomination.
3. Nominations must be submitted on the electronic Nomination Form below.
4. A copy of the nominee’s resume or professional portfolio should be included with each nomination submission.
5. All nominations are confidential between the nominee, nominator and the Awards Committee.
Selection Process:
1. The Awards Committee will include two voting MPA Board members and three non-board member physiotherapists who are CPA members.
2. The Awards Committee (as per this Awards Guidelines) reviews nominations. Each nominee is considered on the basis of the information provided. The Awards committee will not request additional information. In the instance where candidates are considered equal in meeting the criteria, the candidate with the most experience will be the tie-breaker. These variables may include contributions to allied groups or community participation.
3. A recommendation is made by the Awards Committee to the MPA Executive Committee or Board by the February meeting, for formal approval
4. The Awards Committee may recommend that the honour not be given in any one year.
Notification and Presentation:
The MPA Awards Chair informs the successful nominee by March and invites him/her to attend the formal presentation to take place at the Annual General Meeting. Announcement of the successful nominee will appear in “PhysioConnection”, on the website and on social media platforms.
Nominators shall be notified of the outcome of the selection process. Unsuccessful nominators should be encouraged to re-submit in future years.
Nomination for the Joan K. Edwards Award
Requirements for Nomination:
1. Review the criteria for nomination.
2. Rationale must be submitted in writing, outlining:
- The person’s accomplishments.
- How the person has contributed to the growth of the profession in clinical practice, the evolution of evidence-based practice, new or innovative program development or initiatives, continuing competency, or research.
- How the person has demonstrated leadership in their commitment to the profession through their commitment, enthusiasm, and ability to influence others.
- The person’s volunteer activities within their community or the profession by participating in Manitoba or National CPA committees/activities.
3. Include a copy of the nominee’s resume or curriculum vitae.
4. Up to 3 letters of support may be included.