On October 3, 1983, Dr. Melvin Schwartz and Patricia Yee came to the Jewish General Hospital from St-Mary’s Hospital to complete their first workday in the Department of Dentistry. Dr. Schwartz was a young dentist and Ms. Yee was a dental assistant.
Forty years later, they not only excelled in their respective professional careers, but—with a common vision, team spirit, hard work and dedication—they each moulded and influenced the workplace that the Department of Dentistry is today.
Dr. Schwartz, Chief of Dentistry since 1999, and Ms. Yee, who still works in the department two days a week, were fêted for their four decades of service at a surprise celebration on October 2. Joined by friends, family and colleagues in Carrefour Lea Polansky, they were treated to tributes and testimonials about their lasting impact on the department and the many people whose paths they crossed.
Dr. Schwartz said he was honoured by the lunchtime tribute—which, he added, came as a complete surprise. He said he has always worked hard to create an atmosphere in the department that is supportive to staff and recognizes each person’s potential—all while emphasizing quality of care to patients.
He attributes his many years of service to his “love of the profession” of dentistry.
Ms. Yee, who was a Dental Assistant and then Unit Manager for the department before retiring from her full-time position in 2019, says she was delighted by the recognition. “I’m grateful and very honoured,” she said. “I was privileged to work with Mel for 40 years.”
Read these Kudoboard tributes to Dr. Schwartz and Ms. Yee. Congratulations to them both!
