Amplifying Impact: Celebrating achievement, touring Northern Ontario and shaping the future

Much has happened since my last update, and it’s been an exciting time at NOSM University. From a pan-Northern tour to the fabulous Northern Constellations and Connections conference, including the Achievement Celebration, as well as two incredible convocations, this has been a very exciting time at NOSM University.

Convocation

NOSM University’s 2025 convocation ceremonies were held on May 23 in Thunder Bay and May 30 in Sudbury, my first as President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean and CEO. It was a true honour to celebrate the accomplishments of our esteemed graduates, especially those who began their journey during a global pandemic and overcame unexpected challenges to earn their MDs.

With this year’s additions, NOSM University’s alumni community has grown to include 1,041 MD graduates, of whom 92 identify as Indigenous and 214 as Francophone. A remarkable 34 of this year’s MD graduates matched to family medicine, representing 49% of all MD graduates, and reaffirming NOSM University’s leadership in addressing primary care gaps that exist in primary care for remote, rural, Indigenous and Francophone communities.

To all of the learners graduating this year, I congratulate you on reaching this significant milestone, and hope you continue to break down barriers, advocate for health equity, and be a force for change in all that you do.

President’s tour of Northern Ontario

Since April, I’ve been on the road with several members of our leadership team to meet and consult with communities across Northern Ontario. We covered 4,682 km of Northern highways, the quivalent of driving from Montreal to Vancouver, and held meetings, townhalls and input sessions with faculty, learners, hospital partners, Indigenous and Francophone leaders, donors, and elected officials in the following communities: Atikokan, Batchewana First Nation, Blind River, Bracebridge, Dryden, Espanola, Fort Frances, Hearst, Huntsville, Kapuskasing, Kenora, Kirkland Lake, Marathon, Midland, Mississauga First Nation, North Bay, Parry Sound, Red Lake, Sioux Lookout, Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, Temiskaming Shores, Thunder Bay, Timmins, Wawa and West Nipissing.

These in-person conversations have been both inspiring and essential in shaping NOSM University’s next strategic plan. I’m deeply grateful for the candid insights, resourcefulness, and creativity shared along the way. Clear themes are already beginning to emerge. I’ll be making a few more visits later this summer, including a special return to Moose Factory—the place where I began my practice, and one that still holds deep personal meaning for me. As we plan for the next five years, your voice matters. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in our recent tour across Northern Ontario—whether you welcomed us in your community, joined a town hall, or shared your insights along the way. Your warm reception and thoughtful input have been invaluable in shaping NOSM University’s next strategic plan.

It’s not too late to have your say. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts through our strategic plan survey before Friday, July 4. Your voice matters.

NOSM University Achievement Celebration

As a part of the spectacular Northern Constellations and Connections conference, NOSM University hosted its third-annual Achievement Celebration on May 9, 2025, recognizing the passion, commitment, excellence, and innovation of those across Northern Ontario who continue to drive NOSM University forward. Every milestone reached at NOSM University is a reflection of the people who make our mission to help improve the health of Northern Ontarians a reality. Faculty, staff, learners, and alumni all play an integral role in fostering excellence in health professions education and research, and that deserves celebration.

It was my first year attending these awards as NOSM University’s President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean, and CEO, and, as you can see for yourself here on our YouTube channel, it was an evening to remember. My warmest congratulations to all of those recognized and nominated for an award, and to everyone, you made the event so special. You can see photos from this year and shots from the last two events here.

Earth Day event

At the end of April, I had the privilege of facilitating NOSM University’s annual Earth Day Celebration, featuring Dr. Elaine Blacklock, the chair of the NOSM University Action on Climate Change Committee (ACCC) and an expert in the field of planetary health.

Dr. Blacklock delivered an incredibly informative presentation, sharing resources and calling on educators to consider integrating planetary health into their curriculum using the library’s Planetary Health Subject Guide.

The event also featured members of NOSM University’s community: Dr. Gary Bota provided background on NOSM University’s Pledge for Sustainable Travel, Dr. Joseph LeBlanc shared NOSM University’s Good Food Guide, and Eric Grimm, Local Officer of Environmental Health and Sustainability with NOSM University’s Student Council, invited participants to take the Planetary Health Pledge.

The recording of this year’s Earth Day event is available on our YouTube channel for anyone who did not get the chance to catch it live.

Have a great summer

As we continue to grow and evolve, NOSM University remains rooted in its mission to serve the North. The milestones we’ve celebrated and the conversations we’ve shared over these past few months are a powerful reminder of the collective commitment and care that define our community. Thank you for your continued engagement, for your hard work and dedication throughout the year, and for the many ways you contribute to our shared mission.

From my time on the road these past weeks, I’ve been reminded just how breathtaking Northern Ontario is—especially in the summer. The lakes, forests, and vibrant communities are a beautiful backdrop to the important work we do. I hope each of you takes time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the season ahead.

Wishing you all a safe, joyful, and restorative summer. I look forward to continuing our work together in the months ahead—stronger, more connected, and ready for what’s next.

Warm regards,