Safeguarding the validity of science

Earlier this week, we hosted a fourth and final lecture, which Director of Advancement Geneviève Delaquis prefaced by sharing a touching tribute to Mr. Sherman, who passed away last year, that drew many tears.

"Mr. Sherman was very special to us all," she says. "We enjoyed bringing his ideas to life, and he relished in the joy his support brought to our students. The BH family will miss him dearly."

We are pleased to announce that this incredible legacy will continue thanks to The Dr. W. Grant Beaton Science Bursary.

Dr. Peter Markesteyn, a forensic pathologist and Manitoba's former Chief Medical Examiner, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address on January 18.

Recalling the historical development of forensic science, which is the application of science to criminal and civil laws, Dr. Markesteyn reflected on the processes of identification, crime scene investigation, and more. Further, he provided examples of the many professions related to forensic science, including pathology, nursing, toxicology, botany, geology, engineering, computer science, psychology, and, of course, law enforcement. Dr. Markesteyn also emphasized the importance of the validity of science as presented in a court of law.

Notably, he spoke about stress management as it relates to his work in forensic science.

"It is not pleasant. If you recognize it, do not deny it, you can live with it," he advises.

"I was in Newfoundland (many years ago), and I saw a forensic pathologist from New York doing autopsies there. I said, 'How can you do this?' He said, 'All my clients, all these people who have died, did not know that they would die that day. They had no time to look after their interests. Somebody has to look after those interests, and that is what I do.' He called himself an ombudsman for the dead.

"We serve those who died to the benefit of those who have survived."

The integrity with which he brought The Dr. W. Grant Beaton Lecture Series to a close compliments the spirit of philanthropy Mr. Sherman shared with Balmoral Hall School.

Thank you, Dr. Markesteyn.