Our Mission
We offer opportunities for personal and professional growth through association with women in our profession.
We provide a network of support and facilitate growth, learning, and leadership among women dentists in the Ottawa community.
Our History
The Ottawa Women Dentists Study Club began in 2008 in response to a growing need: as more women entered the dental profession, it became clear that a dedicated support network could help them flourish.
Our founding members—Ms. Eileen Peers, along with Drs. Mareille Pariseau, Janet Leith, Lorraine Thacker, Gillian Espie, Karen MacDonald, and Claudia Courchesne—established the OWDSC with vision, leadership, and commitment.
Together, they launched an RCDSO-approved Study Club, created our executive structure and constitution, and set the foundation for a vibrant, supportive community.
Today, we continue their legacy by providing accredited continuing education, networking opportunities, and a platform for women dentists to share knowledge and leadership. Each year, OWDSC also contributes to local charities supporting women and children and awards a bursary to an Eastern Ontario female dental student enrolled in a Canadian Dental School.
Our Constitution
Our Executive
Past Executive
Marielle Pariseau, Janet Leith, Lorraine Thaker, Mira Ghaly, Madalina Soarec, Dorothy Marko, Sandra Chong, Karen MacDonald, Claudia Courchesne, Beverley McKeown, Noelle Hansen, Tara Valiquette, Nicole Vanderwal, Naghmeh Vadovic