The dean of medicine at the University of Alberta has resigned from his position following an alleged plagiarism scandal.
Dr. Philip Baker's decision to step down is effective immediately. But for the time being, Dr. Baker remains on the faculty as a professor.
"Philip Baker, dean of the faculty of medicine is resigning from the position of dean," said University of Alberta President and Vice-Chancellor Indira V. Samarasekera." A resignation from a senior position as dean is a very serious step. It's a loss of a position of high academic stature."
"I'm very satisfied with the process that was undertaken and I think this is a solution that is beneficial to all parties," said Rory Tighe, president of the Students' Union.
Dr. Baker was under investigation after he allegedly plagiarized a convocation speech last week.
Dr. Baker delivered an address to graduating medical students last Friday, but some of the graduates recognized the speech as the same one delivered last year by Dr. Atul Gawande to Stanford medical students.
It's been a hot topic on campus all week.
"He also embarrassed the university and he had no right doing that," said student Heather Mickalyk.
In a letter to students who said the speech showed a lack of respect, Dr. Baker says the original text of the speech was so inspiring he decided to use it as his own.
"I have heard from you following the graduation banquet when the theme (and much of the content) of my speech was similar to that of one given by Dr. Atul Gawande," Dr. Baker writes.
"When I was researching for the speech, I came across text which inspired me and resonated with my experiences. I hope you accept my heartfelt apology."
In the dean's apology letter, Dr. Baker says he called Gwande to apologize. He claims Gwande accepted his apology and even said he was flattered by the incident.
Gwande told CTV News he would not comment on the incident other than to say this is a matter between Dr. Baker and the university.
The president would not comment on whether Dr. Baker's position as a professor could be in jeopardy in the future as an internal investigation is still underway.
Some students say it would be a shame to see Dr. Baker's career "destroyed over a small mistake." But others wonder if someone accused of plagiarism should still be teaching at the university.
"We should have high standards here and, you're not welcome if you're gonna cheat and plagiarize," said Mickalyk.
For now, Dr. Verna Yiu, currently vice-dean of faculty affairs in the faculty, will serve as interim dean.
Dr. Baker will be on administrative leave for the next four months. He's then expected to return to start teaching.
With files from Bill Fortier
