After admissions of plagiarism, the University of Alberta Medical School Dean has announced his resignation. Dr. Phillip Baker was accused of copying, word for word, large portions of an already famous speech at a convocation banquet for the 2011 medicine graduates last month.
Plagiarism is not only an institutional crime but also a great academic embarrassment. The speech was written by world-renowned surgeon Dr. Atul Gawande, who performed it at a Stanford University graduation. It’s difficult to imagine what the Dean was thinking. The decision involved in attempting such a disgraceful academic offence is hard to understand. A dean, a figure of such prominence, being found guilty of such an act is an embarrassment to himself, the students, and the institute. Dr. Baker apologized to students, writing, “I hope you accept my heartfelt apology and although you may not be proud of me as the Dean of your school, please know that I am very proud of all of you.”
Dr. Baker has stepped down from his position as dean, effective immediately, with the Vice-Dean filling in for him until a replacement is found. Throughout his career, Dr. Baker has produced more than 200 scientific articles, 50 review articles and 14 books, but this slip up is one that will surely leave a scar on his career that will never fade.
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