News

Karen Dodge, Associate Director of Production Support, is closing one chapter and opening another—her well-earned retirement—after nearly four decades dedicated to Dalhousie.

Karen began her journey at Dal in 1986 as a programmer, writing small stand-alone systems in dBase. Alongside her IT colleagues, she developed several systems for second-entry admissions in programs such as Law, Occupational Therapy, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, and Social Work, as well as systems for Dalplex membership, Off-Campus Housing, Counselling Services, and more. She was also involved in introducing the first Novell networks on campus—initially for internal use and later expanding to Facilities Management and Dalplex.

After a brief time in Edmonton, Karen returned to Dalhousie to lead the Custom Services team. Together, they continued building systems for Novell servers and the emerging web. At the time, her team represented the administrative side of computing support on campus.

“In 1998, with Y2K looming, I became involved in converting the various second-entry systems into a common system used by all that integrated with the newly acquired Banner system,” she recalls. “We began stepping back from providing Novell and desktop support through Administrative Computing, as the Banner implementation came online.”

This transition marked the beginning of Karen’s 25-year tenure as Manager of Production Support. Her team expanded its scope from supporting Ingres-based systems to managing Banner and Oracle modules—critical infrastructure for the university’s administrative operations.

A culture of camaraderie

Karen’s fondest memories aren’t just about systems and servers—they’re about people.

“The social events and camaraderie that we’ve enjoyed over the years are my favourite memories from ITS,” she says. “The iconic Ring Toss (and the after-party dancing), the decathlon, Bunco, Munro Day Eve, bowling, potlucks, Christmas party gag gifts, running club, ITS fitness classes, corporate challenge, United Way events… so, so many good times.”

She continues:

“The people I’ve worked with were the best part of my job. The Production Support team has been amazing—most of whom were with me through my entire tenure. The Custom Services team was equally stellar. And the others in UCIS/ITS who have been near and dear. And, of course, the clients, who have been our reason for being. I’ve interacted with most of the administrative departments and have developed close relationships with many.”

Lessons learned 

When asked what advice she’d offer to colleagues and students, Karen doesn’t hesitate:

“Be honest and direct—people value transparency. Whether you're working with clients, colleagues, or supervisors, clear communication builds trust and makes collaboration smoother. You can’t always give people everything they want, but if they’re fully informed, it makes things easier.”

What’s next?

As she steps into retirement, Karen is looking forward to a slower pace and more family time. “I’m excited to spend more time with my grandchildren—and not doing mornings,” she laughs.