Windsor Campus recognizes its shining stars at gala awards event
By Communications
It was a night for the City of Roses to honour its stars.
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry recognized the exceptional faculty, residents, staff, and learners who have helped make its Windsor Campus a critical part of the health care fabric of the Windsor-Essex region.
“When this campus opened 15 years ago, we had a simple goal – to increase the number of physicians in the region,” said Dean Dr. John Yoo at the 12th annual celebration held at Water’s Edge Event Centre in Windsor last night. “And thanks in large part to the individuals we are honouring tonight, we have made great progress towards that goal.”
Yoo outlined how the Windsor region has seen a 35-per-cent increase in family physicians and a 31-per-cent increase in specialists since its Windsor campus opened. The School recently celebrated its 15th anniversary in March.
“The awards celebrate the commitment and dedication of those who are distinguished by their leadership skills while embodying the values of the School,” added Dr. Larry Jacobs, Windsor Campus’s associate dean.
Go to Awards of Excellence – Windsor Campus to find out more about the awards and the stories behind them.
Dr. Colin Nesbit Award for Excellence in Emergency Medicine
Kylie Suwary
Awarded to a full-time undergraduate Windsor campus student graduating from the Doctor of Medicine program who demonstrates proficiency and passion for Emergency Medicine. Suwary was selected for her keen interest and aptitude for the practice of Emergency Medicine.
Dr. Gordon Vail Resident Award in Emergency Medicine
Dr. Alex PreselloAwarded annually to a student completing their residency in Emergency Medicine at the Schulich Medicine - Windsor Campus. Presello completed his medical school training at the Windsor Campus, and will be joining Windsor Regional Hospital as an ER physician in July.
Windsor Family Medicine – Faculty of the Year Award
Dr. Jennifer Bondy
Awarded to a Windsor Campus Family Medicine faculty member who has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing Family Medicine residency education. Bondy ensures that residents are learning from every case they see through her passion and enthusiasm for Family Medicine.
Windsor Sub Specialty Rotation – Faculty of the Year Award
Dr. Pat Montaleone
Awarded to a faculty member outside of the Department of Family Medicine in a specialty rotation who has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing Family Medicine residency education. Montaleone, who organized and currently leads the Behavioral Medicine rotation, is an excellent educator and is always highly rated by residents.
Family Medicine Post Graduate Award for Academic Leadership
Dr. Mary Ann Zokvic
Awarded to a resident who has displayed exceptional interest and enthusiasm for the promotion of the Windsor Campus Family Medicine residency program. As chief resident, Zokvic is known as the glue that holds the residency program together. She has gone above and beyond to ensure family medicine education excels at the School.
City of Windsor – Family Physician Award
Dr. Corey Parent
Given to a PGY2 Postgraduate Family Medicine resident who intends to establish a practice in the City of Windsor, and who has a strong commitment to family medicine. Parent has been a student at Schulich’s Windsor Campus since beginning his medical education and has shown dedication, compassion, empathy and an inquisitive nature throughout his time here.
City of Windsor – Psychiatry Physician Award
Dr. Jennifer Grbevski
Given to a PGY2 Postgraduate Psychiatry Medicine resident who intends to establish a practice in the City of Windsor and who has a strong commitment to comprehensive psychiatry. Grbevski has demonstrated a passion for mental health in Windsor and will be a shining star in the community and positively impact many lives for years to come.
Windsor Psychiatry – Faculty of the Year Award
Dr. Kristina Levang
Awarded to a Windsor Campus Psychiatry faculty member who has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing Psychiatry residency education. Levang has been integral to the growth of the program for many years, and participates in several postgraduate committees and as the lead of the Psychotherapy curriculum.
Associate Dean’s Awards of Excellence in Medical Education
Awarded to individuals who contribute to providing the best learner experience within the Windsor Campus:
Christine Gignac, education assistant in Family Medicine, has continuously demonstrated leadership in the smooth operation of the postgraduate family medicine training program.
Dr. Syed Anees, a dedicated leader in postgrad education, has continuously demonstrated excellence in leading learners through their rotations.
Dr. Tyler Jervis is an important mentor to many during their time at Schulich Medicine, bringing a friendly smile and knowledge to help support students during the challenges of medical training.
Educator's Awards of Excellence in Medical Education
Awarded to an outstanding educator or staff member who has displayed exceptional interest and enthusiasm for the learning needs of all Windsor Campus learners:
Dr. Hema Gangam has been a dedicated educational pillar and outstanding support for students completing their paediatric clerkship, consistently demonstrating a passion for teaching.
Monica Bagga, Doctor of Pharmacy, is recognized by her students for her inspiring content, open-minded and engaging teaching style and for creating a welcoming environment.
Dr. Shael Liebman has inspired many with a patient and gracious manner with students, a “perfect” bedside manner and for helping students grasp difficult concepts.
Learner Peer Award
Awarded to a fellow Schulich Medicine & Dentistry - Windsor Campus learner who has displayed exceptional interest and enthusiasm and the ability to generate learner enthusiasm.
Hailey Guertin has consistently demonstrated a desire to improve the student experience, taking on many roles during her time at the School.
Katherine Goren has taken on many roles and initiatives through her four years of medical school to ensure a great student experience for all of her peers.
Maegan Miklas has been praised by her fellow students for her leadership abilities and dedication to fostering cohesion across class years.
“This is truly a celebration of the calibre of excellence and talent that Schulich Medicine brings to the University of Windsor community, to the Windsor-Essex region, and beyond,” said Dr. Robert Gordon, University of Windsor president. “Building medical expertise in our community is paramount; and, attracting and retaining new doctors to this region while continuing to support health innovation and research is certainly a priority for the University of Windsor.”