Mary Bertone, director of the School of Dental Hygiene, is saddened to share the news of the passing of professor emerita Marnie Forgay, founding director of UM’s School of Dental Hygiene in the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry. She passed away April 11, 2026 at the age of 94.
Professor Forgay was a visionary leader whose dedication, passion and commitment laid the foundation for dental hygiene education at our institution. Through her leadership, she helped shape a program grounded in excellence, professionalism and a deep commitment to community oral health. Her influence has had a lasting impact on generations of students, faculty and the broader oral health community.
From 1963 to 1976, professor Forgay served as founding director of UM’s School of Dental Hygiene and served two subsequent terms as acting director. She was instrumental in establishing the values and standards that continue to guide our dental hygiene school today. Her legacy is reflected not only in the strength of our program but also in the many graduates who carry forward her commitment to care, service and leadership.
Professor Forgay also served as director of the School of Dental Hygiene at Dalhousie University from 1985 to 1989. Her many accomplishments include life membership in the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association, chairing the Federal Government working group on the practice of dental hygiene, and organizing the first conference on dental hygiene research education and practice.
We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives she touched. Please join us in remembering and honouring professor Forgay’s remarkable legacy.
Campus flags will be lowered on May 7 in her honour.
Donations may be made to the University of Manitoba, Professor Margery G. E. Forgay Endowment Fund, 100-137 Innovation Drive, Winnipeg, MV, R3T 6B6 or online by selecting School of Dental Hygiene at give.umanitoba.ca.