Dr. Edward Donnell Ivy

Dr. Edward Ivy personifies hope, persistence and possibilities. Born and raised in North Carolina, he has never given up on any dream that is deeply personal and meaningful. Childhood poverty didn’t stop him and sickle cell disease—a serious chronic health condition he was born with—hasn’t stopped him either. Dr. Ivy was the first in his family to go to university. After receiving an undergraduate degree, he earned a Medical Degree at East Carolina University on a full scholarship. His studies continued at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill where he received a Masters Degree in Public Health. Before moving to Canada, Dr. Ivy worked as a Medical Officer with NIH, the National Institutes of Health, and with HRSA, the Health Resources and Services Administration, in Washington DC. As a Medical Officer, he helped innovate systems of care across the United States so individuals living with sickle cell disease—whether in big cities or rural areas—can access medical professionals and comprehensive care. Scholarship opportunities helped to support Dr. Ivy’s curiosity, hard work, and determination, creating wonderful opportunities and advancing his dreams. As the Clinic’s Director of Community Outreach and Education, he shares his enthusiasm and inspiring story, speaking with schools and community groups about creating possibilities even when obstacles seem insurmountable. Dr. Ivy also provides leadership around the Possibilities Clinic Assessment Award, given each year to student recipients in need, to support learning and achievement. His contributions to the clinic resonate with his core values. In his own words, “Giving back is just as important as never giving up.”