Dr. Verna (Huffman) Splane is an internationally recognized health educator and nurse historian.  From 1973-1981 she  was the first woman Principal Nursing Officer in the Canadian  Department of  National Health and Welfare, holding  the  highest  office  of  any  nurse  in  the  country. In partnership with her husband, Richard Splane, she played a key role in a 50-country study of the role of the senior nursing position in national ministries of health. The book “Chief Nursing Officer Positions in National Ministries of Health: Focal Points for Nursing Leadership”, is a landmark study which generated international interest.

Dr.  Splane  is  a long  time  member  and  supporter of the BC History  of  Nursing  Society.  She values the connection to the Society through the newsletter. Her  many  awards  include  the  Jeanne Mance Award(1982)  and  the  Order  of  Canada  (1996).