Verna Huffman Splane

Verna Huffman Splane (November 23, 1914 – January 10, 2015) was a Canadian registered nurse. She served as the first Chief Nursing Officer of Canada from 1968 until 1972.

Early life and education Splane was born on November 23, 1914, in Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. She received a diploma in Public Health diploma from the University of Toronto in 1939, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Columbia University in 1957, and a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Michigan.

Nursing career Before pursuing her undergraduate degree in nursing at Columbia University, Splane joined the Victorian Order of Nurses as a registered nurse.

From 1968 until 1972, Splane served as the first Chief Nursing Officer of Canada. She also served as vice-president of the International Council of Nurses for two terms. Splane also served as vice president of the International Social Service.