In Memoriam: Dan Belliveau, PhD

Dan Belliveau

On Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at the age of 54, Dan Belliveau, an associate professor in the School of Health Studies, passed away after a lengthy illness.

Dan was a valued member of the Faculty of Health Sciences community who served the School of Health Studies in a variety of roles, including as Undergraduate Chair and Director. As a leader, Dan brought people together and possessed a unique way of uniting colleagues and seeing the humanity in all situations.

The recipient of numerous teaching awards and honours, including the prestigious Edward G. Pleva Award for Excellence in Teaching (2019), the Faculty of Health Sciences Teaching Award of Excellence (2018) and the Western Teaching Support Centre Teaching Fellowship (2014-16), he shared a passion for teaching and learning that continued throughout his illness.  

His commitment to science and teaching extended beyond the walls of the academy. As an annual presenter at Shad Canada’s summer enrichment program for high school students, Dan took great joy in inspiring the next generation of scientists and leaders.

In addition to his leadership roles in the School of Health Studies, he also served Western as the University of Western Ontario Faculty Association (UWOFA) President and Marshal of Convocation. 

A neuroscientist and gross anatomist by training, his research focused on three-dimensional representations of anatomy and their enhancement of the learning environment, and the factors that influence the successful transition into higher education.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from St. Francis Xavier University in 1988 before completing his PhD in Anatomy at Western in 1993.

He is survived by his wife, Marg, and son, Xavier. His full obituary can be found here.

In partnership with Dan’s family we are considering ways to honour Dan’s legacy at Western. If you would like to support this initiative with a memorial gift, please visit: www.westernconnect.ca/danbelliveau