Dr Jennifer Critchley memorial plaque unveiling

Dr Jennifer Critchley passed away in 2018 but her legacy at the University of Melbourne, Department of Rural Health and GV Health lives on.

More than 60 people attended the unveiling of a plaque which included Jennifer’s family, husband Ian, children Sam, Owain and Meagan (Hugh is currently overseas) sister Glenys and brother Geoff.

Jennifer Critchley plaque
Dr Jennifer Critchley plaque

Presentations were given by Professor Julian Wright, Head of the Department of Rural Health; Professor Steve Trumble, Head of the Department of Medical Education; Ms Kim Read, Director of Department Women’s and Children’s at GV Health; and husband Mr Ian Critchley, Orthopaedic Surgeon.

The MC was Ms Anne Thewlis, Clinical Skills Manager and the first Clinical Education Facilitator (CEF).

Professor Juliam Wright, Ms Kim Read, Mr Ian Critchley, Ms Anne Thewlis and Professor Steve Trumble
Professor Julian Wright, Ms Kim Read, Mr Ian Critchley, Ms Anne Thewlis and Professor Steve Trumble

Jennifer was a trailblazer for health and higher education and developed the CEF role within the Rural Clinical School.

All CEF’s are highly skilled nurses, with many years of experience in specialty areas, and provide valuable feedback at the bedside for students practicing their skills.

The CEF program quickly became a core part of the Rural Clinical School training experience.

It has also been adapted for a similar program at the metro clinical schools.