New Associate Dean, Faculty Affairs appointed as NOSM University enhances academic leadership and faculty support

Thursday July 3rd, 2025 Isabella Scola-Lawryshyn

NOSM University has named Dr. David MacLean as the new Associate Dean, Faculty Affairs, leading the Human and Medical Sciences Divisions.

Dr. MacLean has been a dedicated member of the NOSM University community since 2004, bringing a wealth of experience across faculty, leadership, and governance roles. As a full-time faculty member and researcher, Dr. MacLean has made significant contributions to the University’s MD, residency and Master of Medical Studies programs supporting curriculum development, program innovation, and academic excellence across all phases of learning.

Having served as NOSM University’s inaugural Speaker of the Senate, on numerous curriculum committees and played a key role in both the creation of new programs and the revitalization of existing ones, Dr. MacLean’s commitment to academic quality is further reflected in his involvement in multiple program accreditation processes. In addition to his academic leadership, Dr. MacLean has played a key role in institutional planning and evaluation, contributing to strategic planning and program assessment efforts. He has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to the growth, quality, and mission of NOSM University.

For many years, Dr. MacLean has conducted extensive research in cardiovascular and skeletal muscle health, advancing our understanding of how the body responds under stress and disease. His work has contributed valuable insights with the potential to inform improved therapies and outcomes.

“I am honored to step into the role of Associate Dean, Faculty Affairs at NOSM University and am eager to contribute to the continued success of our institution,” says Dr. MacLean. “I look forward to embracing new challenges and working alongside the many dedicated faculty across Northern Ontario to advance our shared goals.”

Additionally, Dr. MacLean will serve as the Interim Division Head for both Medical and Human Sciences Divisions until the recruitment process to fill the Division Head vacancy is complete. Faculty in NOSM University’s Clinical Sciences Division will continue to be overseen by the Office of the Vice President, Clinical Partnerships and Hospital Relations.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. David MacLean to his new role. His appointment reflects NOSM University’s commitment to strengthening academic leadership and ensuring that faculty are well supported at every stage of their academic journey,” says Dr. Céline Larivière, Provost and Vice President, Academic. “On behalf of the NOSM University community, we extend an immense thank you to Dr. Harshad Telang, outgoing Associate Dean, Faculty Affairs and Dr. Doug Boreham, outgoing Division Head, Medical Sciences and Interim Division Head, Human Sciences, for their contributions.”

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NOSM University is Canada’s first independent medical university and one of the greatest education and physician workforce strategy success stories of Northern Ontario. More than just a medical university, it was purpose-built to address the health needs of the region. While advocating for equitable access to care, the university contributes to the economic development of Northern Ontario. NOSM University relies on the commitment and expertise of the people of Northern Ontario to educate health-care professionals to practise in Indigenous, Francophone, rural, remote, and underserved communities. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and advocacy, NOSM University is an award-winning, socially accountable organization renowned for its innovative model of distributed, community-engaged education and research.

For further information, please contact news@nosm.ca.

In the Spotlight

Postgraduate medical residents need your support

Tuesday July 1st, 2025 Marieta-Rita Osezua

As new residents begin their training with NOSM University in communities across Northern Ontario—many for the first time—they face unique challenges. In response, the NOSM University General Postgraduate Bursary was established in 2024 to support residents with the rising cost of living and the demands of residency. Your support ensures these future physicians can focus on learning and caring for Northern Ontarians.

Marina Cardinez picture — Dr. Marina Caroline Cardinez

Residents are doctors who have finished medical school and are now training in a specialty while working under the supervision of a licensed physician. Dr. Marina Caroline Cardinez is a third-year family medicine resident with a focus on mental health in Sault Ste. Marie. She received a bursary for family medicine residents in 2024 and 2025, which she says impacted her positively, both professionally and personally.

“On a personal level, residency is an incredibly demanding time, and the financial pressures can be significant. The bursary helps alleviate some worry and focus more fully on training rather than worrying about day-to-day expenses—especially with the added costs of relocating to Sault Ste. Marie,” Dr. Cardinez said. In addition, the bursary also helps with professional development expenses, including attending the annual Family Medicine Conference and paying for medical licensing exams. Dr. Cardinez adds that the bursary helps her, and other residents, feel supported and valued.

“With the growing cost of living expenses, this financial assistance is deeply appreciated,” Dr. Cardinez said. “It helps residents manage essential expenses and start our careers in a more comfortable and encouraging environment.”

In 2020, Dr. Cardinez came to Canada from Trinadad and Tobago, as an international medical graduate. After some internships and hospital work experience in both Toronto and Calgary, she applied to NOSM University. Drawn in by NOSM University’s strong commitment to social accountability, health equity, and rural health care, Dr. Cardinez shares a passion for public health research and a commitment to underserved communities.

She says the program, life in Sault Ste. Marie—and Northern Ontario more broadly—has been an amazing experience. “While it doesn’t have all the convivences of a big city, you have much better work-life balance and coming to NOSM University is a great way to see all that Northern Ontario has to offer,” Dr. Cardinez said. Upon completion of her residency program, Dr. Cardinez plans to open a family medicine practice, with a focus on mental health, in Sault Ste. Marie.

With donor support, more residents can be empowered and sustained on their journey to becoming fully licensed physicians.

Donate today to the NOSM University General Postgraduate Bursary.

Northern Routes

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

Wednesday June 25th, 2025 Alexandra Poling

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,

Dr. Michael Green
President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean, and CEO
NOSM UniversityIf you have any feedback or comments, please reach out at president@nosm.ca and follow me on X (formerly Twitter) @DrMichaelGreen1.

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