Dr. Bertha Garcia - Vice Dean

Dr. Bertha Garcia

Country of Origin: Peru

Date Arrived in London: 1980s

Occupation: Professor of Pathology; Vice Dean, Education - Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry - University of Western Ontario

Why did you decide to settle in London? What do you like about London?

I am from Lima, Peru. Immigrated to Canada (Calgary) in the early 1970s. I trained as a pathologist in Calgary and worked at Foothills Hospital for a few years. I was then recruited to University Hospital and Western in the mid 1980s to join the budding transplantation group. I love London because it is a vibrant and good sized city with strong rural roots. We have a diverse population from all walks of life with a passion for the arts and education. 

How are you involved in the London community (employment, volunteering, community organizations, etc.)?

I am a medical educator at Schulich's School of Medicine and Dentistry and was the laboratory director for the London Hospital's Laboratories from 2000-2011. I am also a supporter of the London Public Library system and United Way. 

What message would you like to share with newcomers to London and the broader London community?

Get the local paper, see what is happening, join groups with your same interests, volunteer, have fun, learn what the Canadians/Londoners like and try to join them (music, arts, hockey, etc).