News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2025

Halifax, NS – Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Health is proud to recognize and express deep gratitude to Paris Orthotics Ltd. for a generous donation that is transforming the future of biomechanics education, research, and care. The gift of state-of-the-art equipment to the School of Health and Human Performance has enabled the creation of an advanced research and treatment space in the Dalplex—offering unprecedented learning and research opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers.

“We are incredibly thankful to Paris Orthotics Ltd. for this remarkable contribution,” says Dr. Brenda Merritt, Dean of the Faculty of Health. “This donation represents so much more than equipment—it’s an investment in our students, in innovation, and in the health and well-being of our communities. Thanks to Paris Orthotics, our students now have access to the tools and experiences that will prepare them to lead and make a meaningful difference in the world.”

“My family and I are honoured to partner with one of Canada’s preeminent universities.” says Paul Paris, President & CEO of Paris Orthotics Ltd. “We are excited to see the positive outcomes that will emerge from this donation.   We have great confidence in Dr. Laurene Rehman and her Faculty’s ability to inspire their students to explore and expand the biomechanics knowledge base and help drive innovation.”

The donation includes a 10-camera Qualisys Motion Capture system, which tracks human movement in three dimensions, and an AMTI force platform for analyzing ground reaction forces. Together, these advanced tools are supporting cutting-edge research in lower extremity biomechanics and footwear science, while also offering invaluable hands-on training for both undergraduate and graduate students.

Dalhousie recently showcased the equipment during a Kinesiology Lab Crawl, where students, alumni, and faculty came together to explore the new space and experience the powerful potential of the technology. The event highlighted not only the technical capabilities of the equipment, but also the community-building and educational spirit it has inspired.

Faculty members Dr. Jefferey Zahavich and Dr. Christopher MacLean shared their appreciation and excitement. “This gift is already changing how we teach, learn, and provide care,” they said. “We’re deeply thankful to Paris Orthotics for empowering us to offer such high-quality, hands-on learning and to enhance the support we can provide to our student-athletes.”

Since its arrival in late February, the equipment has already been used in student-led research, including an Honours thesis exploring jumping dynamics in individuals with lateral ankle sprains. The positive impact of this donation is already being felt—and will continue to grow for years to come.

Paris Orthotics Ltd., based in Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of Canada’s largest manufacturers of custom foot orthoses. A third-generation company with roots dating back to 1907, Paris Orthotics has long supported biomechanics education and research. Dalhousie is honoured to partner with a company that shares its commitment to innovation, community care, and the advancement of health science education.

Dalhousie University and the Faculty of Health extend heartfelt thanks to Paris Orthotics Ltd. for their generosity and vision. Their gift is not only enhancing educational opportunities—it is helping shape the future of health care.