Indigenous Stories
How Donor Support Helps Future Physicians Thrive in the North
At NOSM University, no two learners follow the same path. Fueled by their dedication and passion, medical students are shaped by the guidance of preceptors, attending physicians, faculty and peers they meet along the way. Just as importantly, that journey is made possible by the generosity of donors who believe in accessible and equitable health education. Contributions from NOSM University donors are felt strongly in Northern Ontario communities where physicians train, playing a vital role in the ability of medical students to become physicians who deliver culturally and socially responsive care in rural, remote, Indigenous, and Francop...
Learn about Evan’s journey to medical school.
NOSM University Elder Frank Ozawagosh honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award from Anishinabek Nation
Husband and wife team Frank and Julie Ozawagosh have been a mainstay at NOSM University since its inception in 2005. Recently, Frank was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Anishinabek Nation—a distinction awarded to Julie in 2015. Recognized as Elders at NOSM University, Frank and Julie prefer to be called by the Anishinaabe words Mishomis (grandfather) and Nookomis (grandmother). Their involvement at NOSM University began when the medical school reached out to them about leading a ceremony at the grand opening. Soon after, Frank and Julie began welcoming medical learners to the Sweat Lodge at their home. “We just...
Read more about how Elder Frank Ozawagosh was honoured with award.
Portraits honour the stories of Indigenous MD graduates
At NOSM University’s inaugural convocation ceremony on May 26, 2023, Dr. Ryan McConnell was one of two physicians presented with a striking portrait by Anishinaabe and Kanienkehaka artist, Elliott Doxtater-Wynn, a member of Bay of Quinte Mohawk who grew up in Six Nations of the Grand River. The portraits are large—four feet by three feet—and incorporate imagery from the graduates’ personal stories. The artworks were part of the CIBC Indigenous Learner Leadership Award, which provided each learner with $20,000 and a professional development budget and supported them with networking resources during their fourth year of MD studies...
Read about portraits honouring the stories of Indigenous MD graduates