In the field of medicine, Dr. Jenna Smith-Forrester stands out as an example of the excellence that defines Dalhousie’s Postgraduate Medical Training. As the inaugural recipient Bluteau Caseley Wealth Management MD Bursary, Dr. Smith-Forrester’s journey shows the impact of philanthropic support on the lives of early career medical professionals.

Fostering Excellence through Philanthropy

The Bluteau Caseley Wealth Management MD Bursary was established to empower Nova Scotia-based doctors through their post-graduate residency training. Open to individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to policy and program development in the area of physician well-being, the bursary was developed to support early career physicians who want to make a difference in the lives of both patients and practitioners.

Recognizing the need to foster excellence and address the multifaceted challenges of healthcare, Bluteau Caseley Wealth Management have stepped up to support dedicated healthcare practitioners as they begin their medical careers.

“We believe a strong community requires a strong medical system, educational institutions, and businesses all working together,” says David Bluteau of Bluteau Caseley Wealth Management.

“This bursary symbolizes that belief, and through this support we aim to contribute to a vibrant community and a robust medical system that benefits all Nova Scotians.”

At home at Dal

While her medical school journey began at the University of British Columbia, it was Dr. Smith-Forrester’s elective experience with the Dalhousie Department of Neurosurgery that left a mark on her heart. The camaraderie, support, and sense of belonging she found within the halls of Dal Med drew her back, reaffirming her commitment to a specialty that felt like "home."

As a senior Neurosurgery resident, Dr. Smith-Forrester has a keen interest in neurosurgical robotics and health system’s quality improvement, and is driven to push the boundaries of innovation. In that, she embodies the spirit of excellence that defines her field—just one of the reasons she was the successful bursary candidate.

For Dr. Smith-Forrester, the Bluteau Caseley Wealth Management MD Bursary represents more than just financial assistance; it is a lifeline during a pivotal moment in her medical training.

As she prepares for her Royal College examination, the bursary has alleviated the financial burdens associated with frequent travel, allowing her to prioritize time with her family while simultaneously focusing on her career.

Trailblazing in Medicine

To Bluteau Caseley Wealth Management, Dr. Smith-Forrester extends her heartfelt gratitude and appreciation. “Their generosity has not only lightened my financial burden but has also served as a source of inspiration and motivation during challenging times,” she says.

As the only woman in Dalhousie Neurosurgery's history to take maternity leave, Dr. Smith-Forrester serves as a trailblazer, proving that motherhood and a surgical career are not mutually exclusive. With supports like the Bluteau Caseley Wealth Management MD Bursary, the sky is truly the limit for this future neurosurgeon.