Check-Up
New leadership for Schulich Dentistry
Dr. Carlos Quiñonez began his term as Vice Dean and Director of Schulich Dentistry on June 1, 2022. One of Canada’s leading dental public health experts, his research centres on the politics and economics of dentistry, with a special focus on health and social equity. His vision is to build Schulich Dentistry into Canada’s premier dental school through excellence in education, research and service.
Alumni awarded honorary degrees
Four outstanding alumni were awarded honorary degrees at Western University’s 319th Convocation. Celebrated for their contributions to Canadian health care, they are leading the way as health professionals, mentors and health advocates. Congratulations to Dr. Patrick Gullane, Resident Alumnus; Dr. Gillian Kernaghan, MD’82; Dr. Danielle Martin, MD’03; and Dr. Jeffrey Turnbull, Resident Alumnus.
Blazing a trail of excellence
Dr. Roberta Bondar, MSc’71, Resident Alumna, is the inaugural recipient of the Dr. Stephen Blizzard Trailblazer Award. Thirty years after her historic space flight aboard NASA’s Space Shuttle Discovery, she is inspiring people to explore and protect Earth as a nature photographer and conservationist. The Award honours Dr. Stephen Blizzard, MD’63, a physician, flight surgeon and military pilot who displayed extraordinary grit and determination throughout his life and career.
Alumni of Distinction
The 2022 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients are international leaders, accomplished scholars, community advocates and trailblazers in their fields. They have distinguished themselves as role models and an inspiration to all. Congratulations to Dr. Franco DeMonte, MD’85; Dr. Bertha Garcia; Dr. Gustavo Gusso, MClSc’10; Dr. Anthony Jevnikar, MSc’78, MD’81; Dr. Marilyn MacLoghlin, DDS’70; Dr. Jonathan Mahn, DDS’07; Matthew Miller, BMSc’07, PhD’12; Dr. Samir Sinha, MD’02; and Anita Woods, PhD’07.
New Strategic Plan embraces the future
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry launched a bold five-year Strategic Plan that will propel the School to the forefront of health education, research and innovation for generations to come. The Plan focuses on five priority directions: Educational Excellence; Research Impact; Social Accountability; People; and Partnerships. It came together through one of the most comprehensive planning and consultative processes ever undertaken at the School.
Western welcomes first Indigenous scholarship recipients
Delainey Mattern, Dentistry Class of 2025, was one of three inaugural recipients of Western University’s National Indigenous Scholarships. Established as part of the University’s expanded investment in Indigenous recruitment and financial aid, the Scholarships recognize academic excellence and contributions to Indigenous communities.
International honour for Dr. Vladimir Hachinski
Dr. Vladimir Hachinski is the 2022 recipient of the Potamkin Prize, recognizing his scientific achievements and ground-breaking discoveries in stroke, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Described as the ‘Nobel Prize of Alzheimer’s research,’ the Potamkin Prize is bestowed in partnership with the American Academy of Neurology and the American Brain Foundation.
SEED cultivates education innovation and capacity
The Schulich Education Enhancement Division (SEED) is creating high-impact, innovative and student-centred learning experiences to ensure students can thrive and grow. Sarah McLean, PhD’12, is the inaugural Director of SEED, which is a key deliverable in the School’s five-year Strategic Plan.
Addressing barriers in medical school admissions
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is a partner in the Community of Support, a collaborative effort at medical schools across Canada to support students from under-represented and equity-deserving groups during the preparation, application and admission to medical school.
Alumni top lists of inspiring young leaders
Dr. Teresa Purzner, MD’09, was named among Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, celebrating her achievements in research, neurosurgery and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Caitlin Symonette, BMSc’06, MSc’08, MD’12, MSc’15 (Surgery), was named as one of London’s 20 Under 40, celebrating younger Londoners who are moving the city forward.
