Carole J. Bland

Bland, Carole J. Age 62 of Plymouth, passed away August 23, 2008 from pancreatic cancer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Georgene Martin and her sister, Sharon Martin. She is survived by Dick, her husband of 40 years, as well as by a world of wonderful friends and relatives. Carole's entire professional career was spent at the University of Minnesota Medical School, where her impact was deep and profound. She and Dick met at Augustana College in Sioux Falls as undergraduates, where they developed a uniquely close relationship with a number of people who have remained close friends today. Carole went on to receive her Ph.D from the U of M in 1974, and remained on the Faculty in the Medical School since that time. Most recently Carole was Assistant Dean for Faculty Development in the Medical School. Carole's impact on the development of academic professionals in medical departments – both through her personal relationships as well as professional endeavors – cannot be overstated. A natural mentor, she was Director of Clinical Research Fellowships for the Department of Family Medicine and principal architect for mentorship programs for the Medical School. She was also the co-director of the Leadership/Mentorship Component of the Committee on Excellence in Women's Health. She loved research and education. She served as a member of the Board of Trustees for Augustana College since 2002. In addition to her numerous scholarly journal articles, she authored several educational books on faculty development and research, including one about to be published entitled "Mentoring and Being Mentored: Effective Collaboration Throughout an Academic Career". She received multiple awards and recognitions for outstanding achievement during her career. Earlier this year, she received the Distinguished Career Award from the American Educational Research Association (AERA). In 1999, she received the Outstanding Research Publication Award from AERA following the publication of one of her books. She was the recipient of the Hames Research Award from the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine, awarded annually to one person whose career accomplishments significantly advanced research. She was a bold advocate, supporter and mentor of women in education – "Well behaved, shy and quiet women rarely make history" was one of her favorite sayings. She was loving, thoughtful and gracious to everyone. She was unfailing in bringing a positive outlook to every situation. And dogs, oh how she loved dogs, especially her white German Shepherds. She will be greatly missed. A private ceremony is planned for family and close friends, and a celebration of life will be held in a few weeks. Arrangements Cremation Society of Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, send gifts to Augustana College or the Minnesota Medical Foundation, in memory of Carole J. Bland.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.