The presentation of the 2024 Faculty Member Awards of Excellence marked the first highlight of the evening, recognizing 30 individuals for their exceptional contributions across the Faculty’s strategic pillars: research, education, engagement, Francophonie, internationalization and global health.
Dr. Bernard Jasmin, Dean of the Faculty, also took a moment to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of Dr. Michelle Chiu, Dr. Daniel Figeys, Dr. Alain Stintzi and Dr. Lorne Wiesenfeld, whose terms in Senior Leadership Team positions have ended this past year.
A tree will be planted to commemorate the impact of each recipient and their work – a gesture symbolizing the deep and enduring roots of their contributions to the Faculty’s growth and success.
“It's incredible to celebrate our successes together. This evening is a welcome respite from the everyday stresses of our work.”
Dr. Rashmi Kothary
— Recipient of the Researcher of the Year - Biomedical Award
Julia O'Gallagher and Elizabeth Philippe, co-presidents of the Pharmacy Students' Association, presented awards during the ceremony and spoke to the importance of the evening. "It is an honour to celebrate alongside our professors and colleagues," said O’Gallagher. "I'm proud to present the award to these remarkable recipients, and to be here to celebrate their efforts is truly amazing," added Philippe.
Dr. Jasmin reflected on the 2020-2025 Strategic Plan, emphasizing how the Faculty not only navigated unprecedented challenges but also accelerated growth in key areas. "We launched the Ottawa Academic Health Network, introduced new academic programs including the PharmD program in French and a graduate program in Clinical Science and Translational Medicine,” said Dr. Jasmin.
The Faculty has further distinguished itself through the development of world-renowned researchers, educators and leaders. Groundbreaking initiatives such as the Brain-Heart Interconnectome, the Canadian Pandemic Preparedness Hub and the Centre for Innovation in Medical Education highlight the Faculty's dedication to advancing forward-thinking medicine and healthcare.
In his address, Dr. Jasmin expressed gratitude to the entire community for their unwavering commitment.
“Thanks to your passion and dedication, we continue to innovate and shape the health leaders of tomorrow.”
Dr. Bernard Jasmin
— Dean of the Faculty of Medicine
Looking ahead, Dr. Jasmin provided an update on the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, set to launch in January 2025. "After more than a year of consultations within the Faculty and collective reflection, we have recently developed a draft version of our next strategic plan by answering a very simple question: What does a modern, forward-thinking, and responsive Faculty of Medicine look like in 2030 and beyond?” he asked. “The feedback we’ve gathered has been integrated into an updated version of the strategic plan, which we hope will be approved by the Faculty’s Council next month.”
The Faculty’s strategic ambitions are further supported by the Dean's Leadership Council, chaired by Dr. Jean Pineault, a 1993 graduate in biochemistry from the Faculty of Medicine.
Dr. Pineault, who works in biotechnology in New York City, has maintained a strong connection to his alma mater. He is passionate about contributing to the Faculty's growing international reputation by promoting its groundbreaking scientific research and innovations.
“The Faculty of Medicine has achieved many research firsts that the world still doesn't know about. It's emotional, for sure, and very personal: I want to give back to the Faculty that gave me so much.”
Dr. Jean Pineault
— Chair of the Dean's Leadership Council
The evening continued with a nice dinner enjoyed by all attendees, lively conversation and many opportunities to reminisce and forge new friendships.
A silent auction featuring a luxury week-long stay in a villa on the island of Great Exuma in the Bahamas generously donated by the WCPD Foundation, a long-time partner of the Faculty sparked excitement and enthusiasm among attendees.
The celebration continued with a performance by The Sway Band, turning the formal gala into a party. Professors, staff, students, alumni and friends filled the dance floor, highlighting the cohesive spirit that defines the Faculty of Medicine.
Photos of the event are available on the Faculty’s FlickR album.