Celebrating Dr. Earl
Celebrating Dr. Marie Earl as she steps into retirement
by Lil Crump
Dr. Marie Earl is retiring from Dalhousie University's School of Physiotherapy—leaving behind not only her impactful leadership and research but also a lasting and meaningful presence that is deeply felt by students, colleagues, and the broader community. Reflecting on her work at Dal, Marie is grateful for the wonderful people she has worked with in the School, across Dal and in the community; her path, even with unexpected turns, brought tremendous opportunities to engage with students and colleagues in a variety of ways related to physiotherapy education, research and service to the community.
Throughout her time at Dalhousie, Marie brought a thoughtful, steady, and human-centred approach to everything she touched—from classroom teaching to collaborative research, and most notably, to her work in advancing equity and inclusion.
Creating Safe, Supportive Spaces for Learning and Care
Those who worked closely with Marie often describe her not just as a skilled educator and researcher, but as someone who listened deeply and acted with intention. Whether mentoring a student, supporting a colleague, or working alongside community members, she prioritized kindness, empathy, and respect.
Her leadership in equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) was rooted in this same approach. As Chair of the School of Physiotherapy’s Working Group, Marie brought together faculty and students to identify barriers and work collectively to create a more welcoming and inclusive academic environment. The group’s work reached beyond campus, seeking to improve equitable access to care and ensure future physiotherapists are prepared to serve all communities with cultural humility and compassion.
“Marie Earl consistently puts students first in all her actions. Her guidance, calm demeanor, and support have always fostered an environment where students feel heard, valued, and empowered. Her influence on the school has been significant, and I am truly grateful to have learned from her example." ~Ifedayo Abel-Adegbite, Physiotherapist, PhD student, and School of Physiotherapy EDIA working group member
Marie was also a strong supporter of outreach programs that inspire underrepresented youth to explore careers in health. Her involvement in African Nova Scotian and Indigenous Health Sciences Summer Camps helped introduce students to physiotherapy through hands-on, engaging experiences that emphasized belonging and possibility. She saw this work not as a box to check, but as a critical part of building trust and long-term change.
“Marie has been one of the strongest and most consistent supporters of PLANS over the years. She has continuously advocated for Black students and has been intentional about integrating Black health into her teaching and course content. Her commitment and impact were formally recognized at the PLANS 10-Year Anniversary Gala last year, where she received an Award of Recognition. Marie’s presence, passion, and leadership will certainly be missed by the entire PLANS community.” ~Timi Idris, Program Manager, PLANS
Advocating Through Action
Marie’s contributions to EDIA were not performative—they were deeply embedded in her values and her daily work. She led by example, attending dozens of workshops and seminars to better understand the experiences of marginalized groups. Like her involvement in the indigenous pedagogy course. Marie is not one to sit quietly when hard questions need to be considered and discussed, or rethink established ways of doing things when they no longer served students or patients well.
“Dr. Marie Earl's presence in CLT's Indigenous programming enriched many conversations, with her willingness to listen deeply and engage respectfully serving as a model for others. Marie reminded us that transformative learning happens in relationship—with the land, with each other, and with ourselves. Her contributions will ripple far beyond the classroom.” ~ Rachelle McKay, Educational Developer, Indigenous Knowledges & Ways of Knowing
On a faculty level, her leadership as Co-Chair of the Faculty of Health Inclusions and Equity Committee helped shape broader conversations about accessibility, representation, and systemic change across Dalhousie. Her advocacy consistently focused on how we can do better—for each other and for the communities we serve.
Marie's dedication to improving physiotherapy for all was evident in the way in which she embraced and supported Michelle Patrick and me in developing the IPHE Centring Black Health. It is because of her belief in us and seeing the importance of the work that this course is now a part of the Faculty of Health offerings and the Physiotherapy Program. I hope Marie knows that she has left her mark at Dalhousie. ~Dr. Barb Hamilton-Hinch, Assistant Vice Provost Equity and Inclusion, Professor, School of Health and Human Performance
Quiet Leadership, Deep Impact
While Marie never sought the spotlight, her presence was unmistakable. Her calm, considered way of working brought clarity to challenging conversations. Her mentorship created space for others to grow, reflect, and lead. And her ability to connect meaningfully—with students, patients, community leaders, and colleagues—continues to ripple outward.
As Marie steps into retirement, we will miss her warmth, integrity, and the steady voice she brought to a room. But we know her work lives on in the students she taught, the initiatives she helped build, and the communities she connected with over three decades of service.
Along with her above remarks Dr. Hamilton-Hinch suggested including the following quote from Maya Angelou.
Thank you, Marie, for your generosity, thoughtfulness, and for always centering people in your work. We will not forget how you made us feel. During your retirement we wish you days filled with peace, joy and drumming, where each day includes “an adventure” of your choosing —you've more than earned it.