indigenous health...university of saskatchewan college of medicine alumni magazine indigenous health...

U N I V E R S I T Y O F S A S K AT C H E W A NC O L L E G E O F M E D I C I N E A L U M N I M A G A Z I N E

INDIGENOUS HEALTHNew Health Chair announcement

will address major national issues.

FA L L 2 0 1 7

FA L L 2 0 1 7

E D I T O R Dr. Dennis Kendel

C O N T R I B U T O R SKate Blau, College of MedicineAnne-Marie Cey, College of MedicineDaniel Hallen, University CommunicationsGirard Hengen, Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA)Marg Sheridan, College of MedicineAmanda Woroniuk, College of Medicine

P H O T O G R A P H YAnne-Marie Cey, College of MedicineGirard Hengen, SMAEvan Mah, Student, College of MedicineMaria Ryhorski, SMADavid Stobbe, David Stobbe Photography

D E S I G N Malary Cloke, University Relations

P R I N T E RMister Print

S E N D U S Y O U R S T O R I E SThis magazine is to highlight and inform alumni about successes, innovations and interesting news stories.

Please contact advancement at [email protected] with your ideas for future issues.

@usaskmeddean

01 DEAN’S MESSAGE

01 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT ’S MESSAGE

02 WHO’S WHO?

03 COLLEGE NEWS

07 ON CAMPUS NEWS

08 WHITE COAT CEREMONY

10 DONOR SUPPORT

12 ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS

19 CLASS NOTES

20 AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

23 2017 STUDENT BODY

26 COMING EVENTS

27 IN MEMORIAM

29 FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN

@uofscomalumniassoc

CONTENTS

medicine.usask.ca

A D V A N C E M E N T T E A M

ANNE-MARIE CEYALUMNI RELATIONS [email protected]

GAIL SHIVAK DIRECTOR OF [email protected] 306-966-2600

JEFF ARAMENKOMAJOR GIFTS [email protected]

STEPH HARTDONOR RELATIONS [email protected]

WENDY MATTHEWS CLERICAL ASSISTANT [email protected] 306-966-8864

Dr. Veronica McKinney (MD’98) speaks at the announcement appointing Dr. Alexandra King as the inaugural Cameco Chair in Indigenous Health. On the cover: A drum circle performs at the announcement.

See page four.

1C O N N E C T I V E I S S U E C O L L E G E O F M E D I C I N E FA L L 2 0 1 7

As you will see in the pages of this issue of your alumni magazine, there’s a lot going on at your college!

We did an incredible amount of work to prepare for our full-site accreditation visit October 29 to November 1,

and received great news recently that government funding of $20 million to support us for accreditation was restored to the college for 2017-18. You’ll find more information on both accreditation and the funding announcement in the following pages.

We had a very successful Highlights in Medicine Alumni Reunion Conference this past June. Our student, Josh Butcher, Class of 2018, was one of only three national

Youth Indspire Award recipients. Three of our graduates—two MDs and one Physio—received U of S Alumni Achievement Awards. Our faculty development unit organized its first annual medical education and research scholarship day. We signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining support for our Regina campus. Our School of Physical Therapy marked one year in October since the grand opening of its wonderful new space in the Health Sciences Building. Our Department of Anesthesiology, supported by our Postgraduate Medical Education unit, led the way in implementing Competence by Design in its residency program.

In 2017, we filled two highly significant research chair positions, with Dr. Michael Levin as our inaugural Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair in April, and Dr. Alexandra King as our

inaugural Cameco Chair in Indigenous Health in October. Our researchers are finding increased success, bolstered by internal research funding that supports and furthers their work to achieve external grant success. This past year, they have carried out amazing work in areas of treatments for breast cancer, infertility and childhood epilepsy, improved technologies and tools for rural and remote medicine, work in HIV/Aids, the food environment, and much more.

All this is just the tip of the iceberg. Continue reading to find out more about the activities of your college.

Dr. Preston Smith

Dean, College of Medicine

ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONPRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Here we are, already a few months into the 2017-2018 academic calendar and I am very excited to share with you the new developments at our college and at the U of S. The articles in this edition of Connective Issue tell of

these exciting changes, as well as document the initiatives your alumni membership has supported over the last year.

In August, a volunteer working group met to develop the five-year strategic plan for our alumni association. The plan details our values, principles, priorities and strategies, serving as a blueprint for future alumni activities. Key in this process was to align our planning with the college of medicine’s priorities. Three main areas of focus over the next five years are 1. Engaging with our alumni and the community, 2. Distributed outreach, and 3. Social accountability. I’m looking forward to working with our 2017-2018 board of directors to implement this tactical plan.

Last year our board once again engaged

with our students by supporting many of their initiatives including launching the White Coat Crusade, a fundraising drive to assist us with the purchase of the embroidered lab coats for this year’s White Coat Ceremony. Thank you to everyone who donated to this appeal in support of first year students. Details of a new initiative, the Stethoscope Campaign, are found on the enclosed postage-paid reply envelope.

Funds from your annual membership also supported the students vs. alumni Knuckle Cup (which the alumni won for a second year in a row!). Another way the association supports students was by subsidizing the cost of composites for the graduating class of 2017. Overall, the board awarded $7,600 towards sponsoring a variety of student activities including the Miles for Smiles Charity Walk/Run, Health Innovation & Public Policy Conference, the U of S Ultrasound Symposium, to name a few.

Our annual Highlights in Medicine Alumni Reunion Conference was very well received this past June, with representation from the class years ending in two and

seven. I’d like to give special thanks to Dr. Ayoub Dangor (MD’92), our volunteer conference chair and master of ceremonies. More than 150 alumni and guests attended the gala banquet, and more than $3,600 was raised at the art auction that evening for student sponsorships. In 2018 we’re taking a new approach to Highlights, holding more activities on campus. Mark June 21-23, 2018 in your calendar if your graduation year ends in a three or an eight—this is one event you’ll want to attend! And I’m very pleased to act as a representative for the class of 1968 celebrating 50 years.

Thank you to everyone who assisted with the development of this magazine—our volunteer board, college and U of S staff, and our editor Dr. Dennis Kendel. We sincerely hope that you enjoy the narrative within, and as always we encourage your feedback.

Dr. Craig Hubbard

President, College of Medicine Alumni Association

DEAN’S MESSAGE

2 C O N N E C T I V E I S S U E C O L L E G E O F M E D I C I N E FA L L 2 0 1 7

(L to R): Dr. Keith Ogle, vice-dean faculty engagement; Mr. Gregory Power, chief operating officer; Dr. Preston Smith, dean; Dr. Kent Stobart, vice-dean education; and Dr. Marek Radomski, vice-dean research.

Dean’s leadership team

Alumni Association Board of Directors

(L to R): Wendy Matthews, administrative assistant; Dr. Preston Smith, dean; Dr. Donna Skwarchuck (MD’93); Dr. Charlie Simpson (MD’71); Dr. Nora McKee (MD’93); Dr. Craig Hubbard (MD’68); Daniel Lee, SMSS junior representative; Dr. Pamela Myers (MD’2004); Odell Tan, SMSS senior representative; Anne-Marie Cey, alumni relations officer. Missing: Dr. Wayne Clarke (MD’72); Bob Hickie (BSP’58); Dr. Dennis Kendel (MD’71); Dr. Steve Sanche (MD’90); Dr. Karen Shaw (MD’83); Dr. Brian Ulmer (MD’83).

WHO’S WHO?

ANATOMY AND CELL BIOLOGYDR. ADEL MOHAMED

ANESTHESIOLOGY, PERIOPERATIVE MEDICINE AND PAIN MANAGEMENTDR. DAVID CAMPBELL

BIOCHEMISTRYDR. BILL ROESLER

COMMUNITY HEALTH AND EPIDEMIOLOGYDR. ANNE LEIS

DIVISION OF CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATIONDR. JAMES BARTON

EMERGENCY MEDICINEDR. JAMES STEMPIEN

FAMILY MEDICINEDR. KATHY LAWRENCE

MEDICAL IMAGINGDR. PAUL BABYN

MEDICINEDR. HAISSAM (SAM) HADDAD

MICROBIOLOGY AND IMMUNOLOGYDR. JO-ANNE DILLON

OBSTETRICS, GYNECOLOGY AND REPRODUCTIVE SCIENCESDR. JOHN THIEL

ONCOLOGY (DIVISION OF)(SHR HEAD)DR. MONICA BEHL

OPHTHALMOLOGY (SHR HEAD)DR. PAUL MURPHY

PATHOLOGY AND LABORATORY MEDICINEDR. FERGALL MAGEE

PEDIATRICSDR. LAURENTIU GIVELICHIAN

PHARMACOLOGYDR. VENKAT GOPALAKRISHNAN (GOPAL)

PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATIONDR. GARY LINASSI

PHYSIOLOGYDR. THOM FISHER

PSYCHIATRYDR. MARILYN BAETZ

SCHOOL OF PHYSICAL THERAPYDR. SOO KIM

SURGERYDR. IVAR MENDEZ

Department heads

ASSOCIATE DEAN REGINA CAMPUSDR. GILL WHITE

ASSOCIATE DEAN DISTRIBUTED MEDICAL EDUCATIONDR. TOM SMITH-WINDSOR

ASSOCIATE DEAN SASKATOON CAMPUSDR. GRANT STONEHAM

ASSOCIATE DEAN UGME (UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION)DR. PATRICIA BLAKLEY

ASSOCIATE DEAN PGME (POST GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION)DR. ANURAG SAXENA

ASSOCIATE DEAN SCHOOL OF PHYSICAL THERAPYLIZ HARRISON

ASSISTANT DEAN CME (CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION)DR. JAMES BARTON

College administrationASSISTANT DEANACADEMICDR. MEREDITH MCKAGUE

ASSISTANT DEANQUALITY (ACCREDITATION)DR. ATHENA MCCONNELL

ASSISTANT DEANCURRICULUMDR. REGINA TAYLOR-GJEVRE

ASSISTANT DEANSTUDENT SERVICESDR. BINDU NAIR

ASSISTANT DEANGRADUATE STUDIESDR. DAVID COOPER

DIRECTORADMISSIONSDR. BARRY ZIOLA

DIRECTORNORTHERN MEDICAL SERVICESDR. VERONICA MCKINNEY

DIRECTORFACULTY DEVELOPMENTDR. CATHY MACLEAN


The program is fully accredited, as are all programs in the college, and extensive efforts have been ongoing to address accreditation challenges identified in the UGME program in the past.

The college has worked across what Dean Preston Smith calls a “continuum,” starting with “beefing up” admissions, including requirements of a four-year degree and successfully taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). A highly successful Indigenous Admissions Program and a new Diversity and Social Accountability Program support accessibility and reflect Saskatchewan’s population. Extensive work has been done to improve the undergraduate medical curriculum, including a four-year transition to enhance clinical learning, as well as expanded learning across patient safety, clinical care research, and interprofessional and team-based settings.

Improvements were also needed to engage more medical doctors in teaching and research in the college, and results of efforts in this area have been positive, with an increase to 80 full-time equivalent (FTE) medical faculty engaged in teaching for the current academic year compared to about 35 FTE previously. The college has also been working on building capacity in medical research, investing in internal research awards to support faculty and graduate student success. As well, in 2017, the college established two significant new research chair positions in multiple sclerosis and Indigenous health.

Previous accreditation feedback also indicated the school needed to bolster its administrative infrastructure. College leadership now includes three vice-deans of medical education, research and faculty

engagement, while assistant dean positions have been added in biomedical sciences and undergraduate medical education. New department heads have also joined the team, while administrative staff have been added in key areas, including student services and advancement. The college community and key stakeholders also worked together through an extensive, fast-paced, collaborative process to develop a new five-year strategic plan, unveiled in early 2017.

“We have changed dramatically our approach to supporting students,” Smith said. “We have a new curriculum that’s fabulous. We have the structure now to continuously improve in these and other areas, and we are committed to doing this for our students long after the accreditors are gone. What UGME accreditation really wants to know: are the people of Saskatchewan getting really well-trained doctors and are the students supported in that journey? And I feel that the work that we’ve done, it adds up to a resounding yes.”

As well, over the past year, students, faculty, staff and administrative leaders have worked extensively to submit, this past July, more than 1,000 pages of documentation to the accreditation visitors. After that, the focus shifted to preparing for the visit, which involved about 200 students, faculty and staff from the college and some external stakeholders, who met with the accreditation visitors over the course of three days.

The accreditation visit occurred just prior to printing of Connective Issue therefore no visit details were available for release at this time. For ongoing accreditation updates go to medicine.usask.ca

The College of Medicine full-site accreditation visit for its Undergraduate Medical Education (UGME) program took place Oct. 29 to Nov. 1, 2017.

COLLEGE NEWS

Medical school awaits results of accreditation visit


Cameco led the way with a forward-looking donation of $1.5 million in 2006 that was instrumental in creating the chair.

Those funds are part of a $3-million endowment established for the chair by the Royal University Hospital Foundation through its Royal Care Campaign. King, an internal medicine specialist, will be based at the College of Medicine for a five-year term beginning October 16, 2017.

A respected medical researcher, physician and teacher, King will work with Indigenous communities and all relevant stakeholders to understand the health and wellness needs of Indigenous peoples and the structural changes that may be needed for improved health outcomes. As well, she will lead work to enhance Indigenous health education; advocate for improvements and funding; ensure sustainability of effective services and supports; and facilitate the sharing and use of knowledge and resources to support improved Indigenous health and wellness.

King will bring leadership skills in culturally responsive research and care, reconciliation, Two-eyed Seeing (understanding the integration of Indigenous and Western worldviews or forms of

knowledge) and ethical space—which needs to be created when peoples with disparate worldviews are poised to engage each other. Ultimately, the goal of the chair is measurably improved health outcomes in Indigenous populations in Saskatchewan and the North.

King is from the Nipissing First Nation in Ontario. A specialist in internal medicine focusing on HIV and hepatitis C, she works with patients in a culturally safe way to help them heal from these acute and chronic conditions. She also teaches Indigenous health and has mentored former and current students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels at Simon Fraser University, focusing on wellness intervention research with Indigenous people in the areas of land-based healing, health determinants, mental health and addictions, blood-born and sexually transmitted infections, and justice health.

King serves on many local and national initiatives, including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Strategy for Patient-oriented Research (SPOR) Patient Engagement and Ethics Working Group, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research HIV/AIDS Community-Based Research Steering Committee, and the Canadian Network on Hepatitis C (CanHepC).

New Cameco chair to improve Indigenous health outcomes

The University of Saskatchewan has appointed its first research chair in Indigenous health. As the inaugural Cameco Chair in Indigenous Health, Dr. Alexandra King is set to lead work to improve Indigenous health care in Saskatchewan.

C O L L E G E N E W S

Dr. Alexandra King, Cameco Chair in Indigenous Health



“The decision to restore this is critical to our ability to maintain the strong medical school that Saskatchewan deserves,” said Tony Vannelli, U of S provost and vice-president academic. “We are grateful to the government for making a decision that is essential to our success.”

Vannelli said this financial commitment from the government sends a strong signal of support to, not only the U of S and the College of Medicine, but also the people of Saskatchewan and medical education accreditors—namely, the Committee on the Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools (CACMS) and its American equivalent, the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME).

“This is necessary for us to deliver high-quality medical education and research that is vital to the province,” he said, adding that in combination with the hard work and focus of the College of Medicine faculty, staff and students, restoration of these funds will contribute to a successful accreditation review.

“This is a timely and positive decision that will also be significant to the accreditation review,” the provost remarked. “Accrediting agencies expect appropriate level of funding from government, so this restored necessary funding is a very encouraging outcome.”

Vannelli said funding from the provincial

government was the “final piece of the puzzle as we make final preparations for the review of our medical school by accreditors. This is the type of financial commitment accreditors want to see from government.”

In October 2015, the College of Medicine was taken off of probation as a result of a May 2015 site visit when accreditors evaluated progress on specific standards previously cited as deficient. Almost all standards were partially or completely compliant and since that visit the college has continued to address all standards in preparation for the recent review.

“Having a strong College of Medicine is critical to our university as a research-intensive member of the U15, but beyond that, it is critical to the province of Saskatchewan,” Vannelli explained. “We educate the medical professionals who look after the sick and injured, and we conduct research that improves treatment and cures disease.”

Vannelli said the restored funding allows for “some predictability in our financial situation this fiscal year. It also means that we are partners in providing healthcare to the province of Saskatchewan.”

CACMS and LCME visited the college Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2017 and evaluated 12 standards of accreditation (subdivided into 93 elements) under which all medical schools must operate.

“The decision to restore this is critical

to our ability to maintain the strong

medical school that Saskatchewan

deserves … We are grateful to the

government for making a decision that is essential to

our success.”TONY VANNELLI

Province restores College of Medicine funding

On September 21, the Government of Saskatchewan restored $20 million in funding to the College of Medicine for the 2017-18 fiscal year.

Tony Vannelli, U of S provost and vice-president academic



“Dr. Smith is highly respected as a medical educator and health care administrator with extensive experience in Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia,” Reiter said in a government news release. “His unique perspective is a valuable addition to the 10 member board as it helps guide the formation of the Saskatchewan Health Authority.”

The Saskatchewan Health Authority Board is currently acting in an advisory capacity to help guide the transition from 12 Regional Health Authorities (RHAs) to a single provincial health authority. During the transition period, the current RHA boards remain in place to govern RHA operations.

Since starting as dean in 2014, Smith has led the college’s extensive restructuring to improve all facets of medical education and research, and leads collaboration and innovation across the university’s

Dr. Preston Smith, dean of the College of Medicine, has been appointed as a member of the Saskatchewan Health Authority Board of Directors. The announcement was made August 23 by Health Minister Jim Reiter.

Medical dean named to provincial health board

health sciences. Smith also serves as the university’s vice-provost health; in both capacities, he has built effective relationships and partnerships across Saskatchewan’s healthcare system.

Before coming to Saskatchewan, Smith was the senior associate dean of education at Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine. He played a key leadership role in developing the new Dalhousie medical education program in New Brunswick, which required critical relationship-building with health system partners. As part of his commitment to rural healthcare, he was instrumental in starting four new family medicine residency programs in P.E.I., N.B. and N.S.

Leading the board is Scott Livingstone, a U of S alumnus (BSP’88, MSc’94) and new CEO of the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

Since starting as dean in 2014, Smith has led the college’s extensive

restructuring to improve all facets of

medical education and research, and

leads collaboration and innovation across the university’s health

sciences.

Dr. Preston Smith


U of S alumna Jacqueline Ottmann, who is Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) and a member of Saskatchewan’s Fishing Lake First Nation, is the university’s first vice-provost, Indigenous engagement beginning October 1. Ottmann was previously the Director of Indigenous Education Initiatives and an associate professor in the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary (U of C) while also serving as co-chair of U of C Indigenous Strategy.

Ottmann said she is looking forward to returning to her home province and to the university where she earned her master’s in education (2002) and her PhD (2005) in the Department of Educational Administration in the U of S College of Education.

“I am very excited to be coming back to the University of Saskatchewan and to Saskatoon in general, to contribute to the Indigenous strategy at the U of S. It’s a great privilege,” said Ottmann, who is also a member of a number of national post-secondary organizations.

“Because I am an alumna, I have kept in touch with what was happening at the University of Saskatchewan in terms of their Indigenization and decolonization initiatives and processes and I have been encouraged by the leadership that they have taken in this over the years.”

Ottmann will lead the university’s ongoing commitment to respond to the National Truth and Reconciliation

Commission’s calls to action for post-secondary institutions.

“We are extremely excited to bring back Dr. Ottmann to take a senior leadership role in focusing on Indigenous scholarship and student success on campus while also helping us engage and connect with the community,” said U of S President Peter Stoicheff.

“We are encouraged to be attracting and graduating more Aboriginal students than ever before, and that certainly is a good measure of success. However, there is much more work to be done and we look forward to Jacqueline’s leadership as we strive to be the best place we can possibly be for Indigenous students and communities in the province and across the country.”

There were 2,831 Indigenous students pursuing degrees at the U of S in the 2016-17 academic year, making up 12 per cent of the total student population of 24,227.

The university has actively been working on building Indigenous content and experiences grounded in Indigenous world views into degree programs, an initiative that will be a priority area for Ottmann to support moving forward.

“Definitely I think Indigenous knowledges and Indigenous content does have a primary place within university curricula and this kind of inclusion will only strengthen the overall fabric of the university,” she said.

U of S names vice-provost of Indigenous engagement

“I have been encouraged by the leadership that the U of S

has taken in their Indigenization and

decolonization initiatives and

processes over the years.”

JACQUELINE OT TMAN

ON CAMPUS NEWS

The U of S has brought back a nationally recognized leader in providing educational opportunities for Indigenous students.

Jacqueline Ottman, vice-provost of Indigenous engagement


W H I T E C O A T S

On September 29, the College of Medicine welcomed 100 first year students into the profession during the White Coat Ceremony at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon. The annual tradition marks the entrance into medical education for students and marks the first step the students will take in their medical career.


W H I T E C O A T S

The theme of the White Coat Ceremony has traditionally been about professionalism. The gift of an embroidered white coat presented to the year one class by alumni and members of the profession marks a momentous occasion for the new class. This ceremonial cloaking of future doctors welcomes students to the community of physicians through a powerful representation of compassion and honor, with all the rights and responsibilities which accompany it.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Kathy Lawrence, shared her thoughts on the importance of professionalism as well as making a commitment to continuous learning

throughout their career. In addition to cloaking, the students read the medical student oath of commitment.

Since 2005, the college’s alumni association has supported the White Coat Ceremony by purchasing and preparing the coats. Thank you to everyone who generously donated $250 to last year’s White Coat Crusade. Your gift not only helped welcome a first-year student with their own white coat, it also supported a bursary for much needed financial aid during their years of study.

Special thanks to the Saskatchewan Medical Association for financial support and purchasing the students’ lunch.

W H I T E C O AT C E R E M O N Y


Using an Integrative Medical approach to mental illness, this method takes into account the whole person (body, mind, spirit and community), including all aspects of lifestyle.

Led by Drs. Anne Leis and Shirley (DeeDee) Maltman (MD’85), the project is a collaboration between members of the Centre for Integrative Medicine, the Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, and the Neuroscience Research Cluster.

Since last year much activity has occurred behind the scenes to move this project forward, including meetings to get unified directives between the experts involved in the project. This past summer the project was approved for ethics trials by the University of Saskatchewan’s ethics board.

One of the five areas of the project, the trials will attempt to show that an Integrative Medical approach will be effective in reducing depression for patients, through things like exercise,

meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction, reducing environmental toxins, community, and changes to diet, to name a few. The researchers hypothesize that this integrative approach will be as effective as conventional medicine in many people. The study also looks to evaluate the possibility of developing biomarkers to better define the subpopulation of patients that would benefit the most from an integrative approach.

Along with the ethics trials, funding was approved to conduct a one-year pilot study. However, additional funding is still required to extend the project beyond this pilot timeframe.

Thank you to all supporters who have contributed to this exciting research initiative. It is important to continue this work in the field of mental health by studying outcomes using an Integrative Medical approach. The ongoing support of Mike Babcock, 2016 Honorary Doctrate and coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, is appreciated.

The Neural Health Project’s whole person approach provides keys to unlocking better mental health. The development of the project came from the need to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families touched by mental illness.

DONOR SUPPORT

Keys to unlocking better mental health: neural health project update

Dr. Shirley (DeeDee) Maltman (MD’85)

1 1C O N N E C T I V E I S S U E C O L L E G E O F M E D I C I N E FA L L 2 0 1 7

Dr. Yuen has named the scholarship fund in memory of his mentor Dr. Donald Baxter, who taught neurology at the U of S medical school when Yuen was a medical student.

“This $40,000-a-year award is the largest donor-funded graduate scholarship ever offered at the U of S and we are extremely grateful to Dr. Yuen for making this major investment in young academic talent that will advance our global research collaboration in our signature area of food security,” said U of S Vice-President Research Karen Chad.

The gift will be matched by the U of S Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) through an annual contribution over 25 years. One to two graduate students from either mainland China or Hong Kong will be awarded $40,000 a year to study at the U of S for up to three years under the supervision of a GIFS researcher.

Maurice Moloney, GIFS executive director and CEO, noted that China has become an international leader in the area of agricultural research.

“This very generous gift will ensure that we make the most of productive collaborations and the talents of graduates from both countries working together in pursuit of a common goal—to bring global food security to both developed and developing regions for future generations,” he said.

U of S alumnus establishes major graduate scholarship in global food security

Back in 1963 at the U of S medical school, Yuen and Baxter co-authored a research paper, published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, on age-related neurodegeneration in brain cells.

“I was completely thrilled,” Yuen recalled. “I learned from him the great importance of being meticulous and taking great pride in everything you do.”

Yuen returned to Hong Kong in 1974 and became a pioneer in the fields of pediatric oncology and hematology, serving as founding chair of the Hong Kong Paediatric Hematology and Oncology Study Group in 1993. In 1995, he became the pediatrician in charge of The Lady Pao Children’s Cancer Centre, a leading cancer centre in South East Asia. In 2006, he was elected the Outstanding Asian Paediatrician by the Asian Pacific Pediatric Association.

Baxter went on to become director of the Montreal Neurological Institute where he made a significant contribution to the field of neurology and brain research.

“Dr. Baxter will always be a great teacher to me. I owe him a great deal,” Yuen said.

Yuen’s experience as a pediatrician has led him to believe that food security and nutrition are of utmost importance to the health of future generations.

D O N O R S U P P O R T

The University of Saskatchewan celebrated the establishment of the Dr. Donald Baxter Scholarships in Global Food Security, made possible by a $1-million gift from Dr. Patrick Man Pan Yuen (MD’64), a distinguished pediatrician and U of S alumnus living in Hong Kong.

“Throughout my medical career, I have come to the conclusion a medical doctor can really save relatively few of his patients in his lifetime. By offering to help set up research in increasing food production to combat hunger, far more lives can be saved,” he said. “I cannot think of a better place in the world than the University of Saskatchewan in fulfilling my wishes, since the place is well known as a major player in global food security.”

The scholarships will be awarded to high-achieving graduate students undertaking research at the U of S in areas such as seed and developmental biology, root-soil-microbial interactions, and related digital and computational agriculture. In the event that there are no suitable candidates from China or Hong Kong, the scholarships can be awarded to qualified Canadian students to carry out research in China.

Applications will be accepted starting July 10 through the College of Graduate and Post-Doctoral Studies.

“I know that my husband would be very honored that Dr. Yuen has named this scholarship after him and that the legacy of their work together at the U of S will be exciting research opportunities for graduate students from China today,” said Dr. Baxter’s widow Anne Baxter, who attended the celebration.

Dr. Patrick Man Pan Yuen (MD’64)


ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS

Reunion and conference June 21-23, 2017

H I G H L I G H T S IN MEDICINE


The 32nd annual Highlights in Medicine Alumni Reunion Conference took place June 21-23, 2017 at the Sheraton Cavalier Hotel, Saskatoon SK.

This year’s honoured classes were every five-year class from 1957 to 2012. For the first time a class celebrated 60 years.Congratulations to the class of 1957!

The conference included lectures from

H I G H L I G H T S IN MEDICINE

A L U M N I H I G H L I G H T S , H I G H L I G H T S I N M E D I C I N E

international alumni and guest speakers, a dean’s welcome reception, class parties, campus tours, all culminating with a banquet and silent art auction. The auction, titled The Knowledge Lies Within in memory of the Jordan van der Vorst family, raised more than $3,600 for student sponsorships. Special thanks to this year’s generous sponsors Scotiabank, the Saskatchewan Medical Association and SaskDocs.

Top: The Knowledge Lies Within art auction raised funds for student sponsorships.Bottom: Dr. Ayob Dangour (MD’92) was the Highlights Honourary Chair and Master of Ceremonies.



(L to R): Rachel Ottenbreit, Emily Sullivan and Caitlin Laughlin.

Class of 2012

(L to R): Robert Seidlitz and Natasha Frolic.

Class of 1997

Class of 1992

Front row (L to R): Anil Patel, Sharla Ernst, Mark Ernst, Kathleen Negraeff, Mike Negraeff, Debra Shepherd, Paul Harasen, Rehanni Khaseipoul, and Mark Gulka.

Back row (L to R): Cam Molder, Todd Buglass, Tiffany Buglass, Kevin Ewanchyna, Ayoub Dangor, Brenda Lougheed, Sandy Gabruch, Tom Gabruch, Kelly Malach, Jaye Malach, and Nora McKee.

Class of 1987

Front row (L to R): Paula Schwann, Laura Peters, Connie Woo, Holly Wells, Jaime Scott, Beverly Adams, and Elizabeth Varughese.

Back row (L to R): David Skarsgard, Lance Atton, Joanne McLeod, Maureen O’Donnell, Ruth Grimes, and Werner Spangehl.

Class of 1977

Front row (L to R): Donna-Marie Worobetz, Ron Koltun, Lynn Koltun, Robert Herman, Doris Herman, Lisa Stalder, Paula Mckechnie, Carol Geddes, Wendy Stefiuk, Don Stefiuk and Mike Trew.

Second row (L to R): Lawrence Worobetz, Norwood Kavanagh, Lois Kavanagh, Sandra Allaire, David Brook, Andy Stadnyk, Lois Stadnyk, Dennis Lanigan, Sharon Lanigan, Carla Read, Doug Read, Marta Kazymyra, and Katie Tihanyi.

Third row (L to R): Jill Yemen, Royce Johnson, Mary Ann Johnson, Jim Sunstrum, Marnie Jacobsen, Linda Smith, Woodrow Wells, Colin Walker, Betty Feick, Dave Warden, Kelly Warden, Wendy Ehman, Bill Ehman, Nan Schuurmans, Dave Allan, and Jim Rice.

Back row (L to R): Alex Hurrell, Mike Hurrell, Jacqui Gardner, Les Klein, Toby Rose, Debbie Mathias, Lynn Sheridan, Dave Sheridan, Dave Surkan, Reg Yeske, Nancy Taite, Neil Rooke, and Laslo Kolta.

Save the dateHighlights 2018, June 21-23, 2018H O N O U R E D Y E A R S

1948, 1953, 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983 , 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013



Class of 196750 year reunion

Front row (L to R): Beth McHattie (standing), Beryl Gibbings, Maitland McNeil, Bonnie Hedley and Robert Hutcheon.

Back row (L to R): Jim McHattie, Grant Gibbings, Brian Ready, Audrey Ready, Bob Mulder, Diane Mulder, Glenn Veeman, Susan Hannah, and Philip Gutek.

Class of 1962

(L to R): David Mulder, Norma Mulder, Carl Zylak, Justina Heese and Heinz Heese.

Class of 195760 year reunion

Front row (L to R): Marie Krochak, Lois Kavanagh, Pat Pendleton, Bonnie Paetkau, and Anne Cooper.

Back row (L to R): Michael Krochak, Norwood Kavanagh, Ralph Pendleton, Eric Paetkau and Bob Cooper.

Class of 1972

Front row (L to R): Hannelore Ritenburg, Elaine Stakiw, Rosy Gilliland, and Margaret Anne Clarke.

Back row (L to R): Harry Clarke, Francis Clarke, Terry Shewchuk, Kent Stakiw, Barry Gilliland, Lawrence Gelman, Sarah Jones, Wayne Clarke, Jane Maksymiuk and Andrew Maksymiuk.

Front row (L to R): Ayoub Dangor, Anne-Marie Cey, Paula Schwann,

Nora McKee and Charlie Simpson.

Back row (L to R): Glenn Veeman, Heinz Heese,

Wendy Matthews, Tom Gabruch, Don Stefiuk, and

Norwood Kavanagh.

Highlights 2017Planning committee

If you’re interested in being a class representative contact Anne-Marie Cey, alumni relations officer at 306-966-5763 or [email protected].

Missing: Barry Gilliand, Michael Goldney, Cheryl Mitchell, Ashley Sasbrink-Harkema


Trained in family medicine and orthopedic surgery, Young’s career path has been anything but typical for a medical school graduate. Young serves as an orthopedic surgeon with the Maritime Operational Health Unit in the Australian Navy. He’s been deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, and in non-combat roles to Southeast Asia and Australia. To maintain his surgical and clinical skills, Young is a full-time consultant orthopedic surgeon at Frankston Hospital in Melbourne and is the professional liaison officer for surgeons in the Navy. His civilian roles include the deputy director of surgery, adjunct senior lecturer for Monash University, supervisor of orthopedic

Honourary alumnus commanderDr. Ian YoungNot many budding physicians envision themselves one day joining the military, moving halfway around the world and being deployed to Middle East war zones. But that’s exactly the path Commander Ian Young (MD’92) took.

training and member of the Victorian Trauma Committee.

Young gave the Honourary Alumni Lecture at this year’s Highlights in Medicine Alumni Conference. The event gave him time to reconnect with friends, and he reflects positively on his time in the college.

“The fondest memory really was the people,” said Young. “My classmates were all pretty awesome, we had a really good time. A very tight group. Knowing we were all working toward the same goal and at that point, although there might have been a bit of competition within the college, doing well on the exams, it really wasn’t like that. We had the competition to actually

“What the U of S did was provide me with a good

foundation in basic medicine. Even

though we weren’t a self-directed

program we really had to put in (our)

own effort and that set me up for

success.”DR. IAN YOUNG

Dr. Ian Young (MD’92)


A L U M N I H I G H L I G H T S , D R . I A N Y O U N G

get into medical school and once we were in, everyone was really helpful and helped each other along.”

Becoming a physician fulfills a lifelong dream for Young—he recalled wanting to be a doctor when he was about 12 years old. Growing up in Regina, Young completed his anatomy degree prior to entering medical school at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S). He had an interest in sports medicine and orthopedics, and participated in a trauma orthopedic placement during his JURSI year at McMaster University. There, his surgical counterparts were surprised at his strong grasp of anatomy and medical knowledge, which he credits to a structured U of S learning model involving labs, exams and lectures; a contrast to McMaster’s program of independent, self-directed learning.

“What the U of S did was provide me with a good foundation in basic medicine,” continued Young. “Even though we weren’t a self-directed program we really had to put in (our) own effort and that set me up for success.”

Young completed his family medicine residency at Ottawa, followed by a surgical residency at the National Defense Medical Centre (NDMC), and stints at the National Defence Headquarters and the nautical vessel HMCS Provider.

“When I was doing family medicine training I did some orthopedic medical work just because I was interested in that aspect—injections, diagnoses, sports medicine. I became a member of the former Canadian Academy of Sports Medicine and that was a focus that I liked,” said Young. “Once I started working full-time in the military my first year was as a surgical resident at the NDMC, I think six months of my time was doing orthopedics, so that fostered my interest in orthopedics even further.”

By this time, he decided to transition to the Australian Navy to be closer to his wife’s family, and pursue his certification through the Royal Australia College of Surgeons. He recalled a visit from a recruiter during his first-year that sparked his interest in a military career. The officer talked about what the Canadian Armed Forces had to offer in terms of paid education and training.

For Young, the option to graduate without a huge financial debt was appealing. That,

World War ITwo alumni from pharmacy served in WWI, one in the first Field Ambulance unit and the other in the eighth Sask. Hospital.

World War II127 medical alumni from class years 1929 to 1952 enlisted with many serving in the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps. A few other alumni served in the Navy, and one in the U.S. Army Air Corp. University records indicate that three alumni were killed in the line of duty during WWII in 1942 and 1944.

Iraq and AfghanistanTwo medical alumni served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

coupled with a trip to Europe after his first year, “gave him a taste of travelling life” and propelled Young to join Canada’s military program in his second year of medical school.

Young doesn’t mince words when talking about life in a war zone, but admitted at some point you learn to accept what’s beyond your control, even if there are some uncommon precautions you take.

“It’s scary (at) times when you know there are rocket attacks coming into your base or that there’s a high threat of a complex attack coming to your base,” said Young. “I can recall a few times even going to sleep with my body armour on because you’re just not sure what’s going to happen.”

Young indicated that his medical school training prepared him in some aspects for a military career. He admitted that while he wasn’t a frontline officer, doctors still deal with horrendous trauma. Young also cited the parallel between sleep deprivation as a physician and as an officer—you grab a nap when you get a chance.

Still, despite the challenge it can be to transition between military and civilian roles, Young said as a doctor, he really just likes to help people. Whether that’s the satisfaction of getting a good outcome in treating a patient, or training other health-care professionals, he likes to see others do well.

“I like to see other people achieve. I like to develop others. That gives me joy,” expressed Young. “When I see other people do well, that they’ve learned, that they’re enjoying their career, helping them along their journey, I get a lot of satisfaction out of that.”

What advice or words of wisdom would he pass on for current students attending the College of Medicine?

“Just that they are extremely fortunate to be in that college. Their degree opens doors to them and that really the sky’s the limit,” said Young. “If there is any aspect of medicine or even a different career outside of medicine, that they will get the skills at that university to achieve those goals. And have a rewarding career and rewarding life. Just grab the opportunities as they come.”

Medical alumni with military serviceWe would like to thank all medical alumni who have served in the Canadian Armed Forces and remember those who gave their lives as a sacrifice for our freedom.

The following numbers indicate alumni who completed military service and received either an MED (medical certificate before 1957) or MD from the U of S:


A L U M N I H I G H L I G H T S , D R . V O L K E R R I N I N S L A N D

Meet Saskatchewan Medical Association Physician of the Year Dr. Volker Rininsland (MD’81)

“It’s very unexpected and it’s humbling,” said Dr. Rininsland. “I’m humbled because there are so many colleagues in the province doing so many good things. To be selected is a huge honour.”

Dr. Rininsland has been a family physician in Moose Jaw for about 34 years, after graduating from the University of Saskatchewan in 1981. Born in Austria, he grew up in Lanigan, where his family relocated when he was 10.

He has been an SMA member since his university days, served on SMA committees and has served as president of the Five Hills Regional Medical Association. He was also twice president of the Saskatchewan chapter of the College of Family Physicians of Canada. He helped develop the family medicine residency program in Moose Jaw and is now the program’s site director.

“I’ve pretty much held every job that you can and tried to serve the medical community,” he said, “and five years ago I became what I call a reluctant academic when I agreed to help start a family medicine training program and then heading it, and that’s been very successful.”

At the same time he has maintained a full-service practice, including obstetrics and ER coverage. And he has been known to lighten the mood by breaking out into what he calls his “medical songs.”

“He can often be seen playing in the church worship band on a Sunday morning and at various events including retirement

parties and SMA presidential installations,” Dr. Mark Brown wrote in nominating Dr. Rininsland for the award. “He is known locally as the Singing Doctor and loves to entertain with his medical songs.”

Dr. Brown, who has worked alongside Dr. Rininsland since 2001, also describes his colleague as “a mentor who exudes wisdom and kindness,” and who is a respected medical leader.

In his nomination paper, Dr. Kevin J. Dautremont cited Dr. Rininsland’s “tireless dedication” to his patients and to the city of Moose Jaw.

“Besides being a full service family physician in the truest sense of the word, he has devoted countless hours to the city and the health district, including fundraising, health promotion, volunteer activities,” Dr. Dautremont writes. “Volker Rininsland is a kind, humble, hardworking and most of all entertaining individual. His entertaining nature can lift a room with laughter and positivity,” noted Dr. Janet Tootoosis in her nomination paper.

Patient Brenda Humphrey writes she “couldn’t wait to sing his praises” when she heard of Dr. Rininsland’s nomination for SMA Physician of the Year Award.

When her grandmother suffered several strokes, he rode in the ambulance on every trip to Regina. “He didn’t have to do that but was keeping his promise that he would treat her as his own,” Humphrey writes. And when her daughter went into labour and

the baby was in distress, he rode in the ambulance to Regina to ensure the best possible care.

“Dr. Rininsland, or as my family fondly refers, Dr. R, has been our family physician through five generations. While doctors must take an oath to the highest degree, Dr. R.’s personal commitment to his patients is extraordinary. His empathy, understanding, courage, knowledge, humility, humour, but most of all love for healing, is what makes this man worthy of this honour.”

The SMA Physician of the Year award, first presented in 2002, recognizes the valuable contribution and service of an outstanding Saskatchewan physician. The nominee must be an SMA member and be living in Saskatchewan at the time of the nomination. The physician’s contributions can be made in the medical profession or volunteer sector and can be to a community or district, or at the provincial, national or international level, either during a particular time or throughout that physician’s career.

“He has devoted countless hours to the city and the health district, including

fundraising, health promotion, volunteer activities. He is a kind,

humble, hardworking and most of all entertaining

individual. His entertaining nature can lift a room with

laughter and positivity.”DR. JANET TOOTOOSIS

Dr. Volker Rininsland (MD’81)


Share your story. Tell us the recent highlights of your career, achievements and personal updates. Your story may be shared

and published in the next Connective Issue.

Alice Briggs (MED’55)Part-time consulting practice, involved in committees for a parent-support group (HOPE), and dog obedience club. Volunteer in the health clinic for street kids. Happy grandparent to six children.

Ralph Pendleton (MD’57)During a lecture on infertility, classmate Walter Munholland dozed off. He was awakened by a loud question from the professor, “Dr. Munholland, what is the best method for sterilization?”… “Steam under pressure, sir.”

Thomas Hourigan (MD’59)I remain very active with golf and woodworking. One granddaughter graduated from U of S in medicine in 2016 and is now doing an internal medicine residency through UBC at the Royal Jubilee in Victoria.

1950s

1960sArnold Nickel (MD’60)Enjoying retirement since 2010 with travel, cycling, biking, skiing, diving, and flying, as well as golfing and curling.

Garth Wagner (MD’64)I have reduced my medical practice to part-time. Marlene and I have been blessed with a lovely great granddaughter.

Larry Cram-Howie (MD’65)Continue to enjoy travel, golf, lazy days at the lake, and painting and photography.

David Peto (MD’66)Retired with six grandchildren. Volunteer at the humane society. Staying active with tennis and golfing.

Robert H Buhr (MD’68)Live in Stratford, Ontario and just wintered in Phoenix, Arizona. Have three children and five grandchildren.

Bill Hodge (MD’68)Retired from Dermatology practice in 2006. Reside in Kelowna with Dianne, enjoy biking on the lakeshore, climbing Knox Mountain (when my knees allow me), and golfing. Spend winter in the Palm Desert.

Leighton B. Smith (MD’68)Living in Florida, working as Chief Medical Officer at a hospital north of Orlando.

John F. Green (MD’69)Retired from anesthesia. My daughter is an anesthesiologist in Vernon, BC and my son completed Engineering in Sydney, Australia. Still sailing and racing a 31’ Trimaran.

1970sDennis Kendel (MD’71)Served on Advisory Panel for restructuring health system in Saskatchewan.

David H. Clarke (MD’72)Retired in 2013.

Adele Evans (MD’72)Retired in 2008, widowed in 2003. One son, two granddaughters, and one great granddaughter in October 2016.

Hannelore Ritenburg (MD’72)I am still practicing medicine as a GP in Kamloops.

James G. Herman (MD’73)On July 11, 2017, the new Herbert-Herman Cancer Center will open at Sparrow Hospital Health System in Lansing, Michigan. The center is named in my honor. I have spent 40 years in cancer care and was the driving force in advancing cancer care, and developing cutting edge care and programs in the community.

Stewart Nutting (MD’75)My three daughters, 24-year-old twins are going into the healthcare field, one into medicine and one into nursing. My youngest daughter, who is 23, is finishing her Master’s degree in finance and business.

Jan M. Salat (MD’75)Retired in January 2017. Travelled to Salamanca, Spain in May to continue walking Via de la Plata to Santiago de Compostella.

Doris A Nelson (MD’77)Moved from Camrose to Edmonton in October 2015 into a seniors’ residence. My move was to recuperate from metastatic breast cancer.

Michael Trew (MD’77)Alberta Chief Addiction & Mental Health Officer, 2013-2015. Currently doing clinical and administrative work in psychiatry. Married to Dianne with six children (natural and step-kids) and three grandchildren.

John Conly (MD’78)Practice Infectious Diseases at Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary and engage in multiple research studies. Awarded the Medal for Distinguished Service by the AMA in 2016 for outstanding personal contributions to the medical profession. Honoured with a U of S Alumni Achievement Award in 2017. My wife and I are proud grandparents of two granddaughters aged two and four years.

Cyrus A. Kotwall (MD’78)Finally retired in May of 2017, wonderful! Travelling, golfing and pleasure reading.

Magdalena Kuhn (MD’78)Retired in 2015 at age 67. Enjoy cycling and numerous trips to Vietnam, South Africa, USA, and Europe.

Gaylene Soloniuk-Tays (MD’78)Still practicing full-time in Central Valley of California. I am now a proud grandmother!

Gay Wardell (MD’78)Awarded the FRCP in Pain Medicine in September 2016 and was honoured to make the U of S one of the first medical schools in Canada to produce a pain specialist. This was the first examination in history for the subspecialty of Pain Medicine. Until then, I was practicing under the umbrella of FRCP in Anesthesia since November 1988. This represents the first of a cohort of Royal College certified pain specialists.

1980sSheila Fergusson (MD’80)Retired from office practice in 2016. Currently teaching with the UBC Southern Medical Program in Kelowna. I am enjoying travel, skiing, gardening, hiking and volunteering with Girl Guides of Canada.

1990sDarryl Adamko (MD’93)Granted professor title. Still working 50% clinical and 50% research.

CLASS NOTES


AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Adewumi Adanlawo 2017 Bob Sollars Award Excellence in Residency Teaching in Obstetrics and Gynecology

William Albritton2017 Louis Horlick Spirit of the College of Medicine Award

Daniel AltmanPGME CSCI-CIHR Research Award

Karen BaderPGME Program Administrative Assistant of the Year

Leane Bettin (MD’00)2017 Award of Excellence, Saskatchewan College of Family Physician

Rashmi Bhargava (MD’91)2017 Peter Woodrow Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Jacqueline CarverhillU of S College of Medicine Political Advocacy RepresentativeCBC Top 40 Under 40

John Conly (MD’78) 2017 U of S Alumni Achievement Award

Marla Davidson (MD’04)2017 Certificate of Merit Award, Canadian Association of Medical Education (CAME)

Sandor Demeter (MD’89)Member, Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) (Feb. 17, 2017 - Feb. 17, 2018)

Paul Dhillon 2017 Award for Young Leaders in the Early Career/Physician, Canadian Medical Association

Jennifer Duda (MD’07)2017 David Popkin Award, Excellence in Residency Teaching in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Sandra Dumanski First place, Top Poster Awards – What Works, Resident Research Day Awards

Richard Ehman (MD’79)President, Board of Directors Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) (Dec. 1, 2016 - present)

Bryan Evans Third place, Top Poster Awards – What Works, Resident Research Day Awards

Sherril Gelmon (PT’76)2017 Filerman Prize for Educational Leadership, The Association of University Programs in Health Administration

Donna Goodridge and team 2016 Santé Award, Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF)

John Gordon 2017 Award of Innovation, Saskatoon Achievement in Business Excellence (SABEX)

Emmett HallCanadian Medical Hall of Fame

Emmett Harrison2017 College of Medicine MD Excellence in Research Award

Student Leadership Award, Society of Rural Physicians Conference (SRPC)

James Herman (MD’73)Herbert-Herman Cancer Center naming

Vicki Holmes (MD’73)YWCA Women of Distinction Award

Gary Hunter (MD’04)PGME Program Director of the Year

Jay Kalra U of S Canada 150 Citizens

Neil Kalra (MD’14)PGME Award for Excellence in the CanMEDS Communicator Role

Kasie Kelln (MD’15)PGME Medical Class of 1939 Resident Teacher Award

Dennis Kendel (MD’71)Advisor, Saskatchewan Health Care System Restructuring

Serene Kerpan 2016 Santé Award, Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation

Alexandra KingCameco Research Chair in Indigenous Health, College of Medicine, U of S

Peter Kuling (MD’82) Sir Charles Tupper Award for Political Action, Canadian Medical Association

Jennifer Kuzmicz (MD’99)2017 Family Physician of the Year, Saskatchewan College of Family Physician

Alika LaFontaine (MD’06)2017 Emerging Indigenous Leader Award, Public Policy Forum

Paul Lee2017 Provost’s College Awards for Outstanding Teaching, College of Medicine, U of S


Benjamin Leis Second place, Top Poster Awards – What Works, Resident Research Day Awards

Marion Le Roux2016 Reg L. Perkin Award, College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC)

Magdalena Lenartowicz (MD’12) Medical Director, SCAN (Aug. 14, 2017 - present)

Michael LevinMS Chair in Clinical Research, College of Medicine, U of S

Sarah Lohrenz 2017 College of Medicine MD Excellence in Research Award

James MacMillan (MD’09)2017 PAIRS Excellence in Teaching Award

Kristen Marciniuk2017 College of Medicine MD Excellence in Research Award

Razawa Maroof2017 Award of Excellence, Saskatchewan College of Family Physician

Ryan Meili (MD’04)Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Saskatoon-Meewasin, Government of Saskatchewan (March 2, 2017 - present)

AW A R D S A N D A C H I E V E M E N T S

Melissa Mirosh2017 Tom MacLachlan Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology

David Mulder (MD’62)2017 U of S Alumni Achievement Award

Vincent Niccoli (MD’17)2017 Aboriginal Student Achievement Award, U of S

Carol Norman (MD’75)2016 Saskatchewan Senior Life Designation

Arash Panahifar 2016 Santé Award, Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation

Nishma PatelPGME Award for Excellence in the CanMEDS Manager Role

Annette Pegg 2017 Aboriginal Student Achievement Award, U of S

Zafrina Poonja (MD’14) Resident Doctors of Canada Award for Resident Wellness

Jenna Pylypow First place, Top Poster Awards – Clinical, Resident Research Day Awards

Mateen RaaziUnified Dept. Head of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine, and Pain Management U of S, College of Medicine (Jan. 1, 2018 - present)

Heinrich Rininsland (MD’81) 2017 Physician of the Year The Saskatchewan Medical Association

Michael Schwandt and team 2016 Santé Award, Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation

Paula Schwann (MD’87)2017 Michael Krochak Award for Contributions to Family MedicineSaskatchewan College of Family Physician

Nerusha SelvendrarajahPGME Award for Excellence in the CanMEDS Collaborator Role

Raymond M Sherman (MD’80) 2017 Top Doctor in Dakota Dunes, South Dakota

Joanne Sivertson (MD’04)President, Saskatchewan Medical Association

Preston SmithBoard Member, Saskatchewan Health Authority (Aug. 23, 2017 - present)

Canadian Certified Physician Executive (CCPE) designationCanadian Medical Association and the Canadian Society of Physician Leaders

Ben Tan Certificate of Merit, Canadian Pediatric Society

Mark Taylor 2017 PAIRS Excellence in Teaching Award

Brandon Thorpe2017 Community Teacher of the Year, Saskatchewan College of Family Physician

Janet Tootoosis (MD’99)Director, Saskatchewan Health Authority (June 14, 2017 - present)

Ryan Verity2017 College of Medicine MD Excellence in Research Award

Grace Walker (MD’83) Director, St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation (2017/2018)

Hui Wang Second place, Top Poster Awards – Clinical, Resident Research Day Awards

Tanche (Jimmy) Wang Third place, Top Poster Awards – Clinical, Resident Research Day Awards

Sanchea Wasyliw (MD’14)PGME Award for Excellence in the CanMEDS Professional Role

Stuart WiberPGME Medical Class of 1939 Resident Teacher Award

Kurt Williams 2017 Dr. John M. Embil Mentorship Award in Infectious Diseases Canadian Foundation for Infectious Diseases


Three College of Medicine grads honoured with alumni achievement awards

Presented annually, the Alumni Achievement Awards recognize the outstanding achievements of University of Saskatchewan graduates. The awards recognize contributions in fields such as Indigenous initiatives, research, community leadership, education and volunteer service, and have been awarded annually since 1978 by the University of Saskatchewan Alumni Association.

On October 26, three College of Medicine graduates were recognized for their work—congratulations to Dr. John Conly (MD’78), Dr. Sherril Gelmon (PT’76), and Dr. David Mulder (MD’62).

Dr. John Conly (MD’78)Presented for his commitment to advancing the medical profession and his dedication to public service.

Dr. John Conly is internationally recognized as one of the world’s leading infectious diseases specialists and a pre-eminent expert on antimicrobial resistance, serving on advisory groups within the World Health Organization in this capacity. John was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal from the Alberta Medical Association, which is awarded for outstanding personal contributions to the medical profession.

Dr. Sherril Gelmon (PT’76)Presented for her outstanding contributions to education and research.

Dr. Sherril Gelmon’s career has been devoted to developing management, policy and organizational research in health care. She received the 2017 Filerman Prize for Educational Leadership from the Association of University Programs in Health Administration for her contributions to health administration, education and leadership. She is currently a professor at the Oregon Health and Science University and Portland State University School of Public Health.

Dr. David Mulder (MD’62)Presented for his commitment to athletics, sports, wellness, education and research.

Dr. David Mulder became surgeon-in-chief at the Montreal General Hospital in 1977. Among the positions he holds are medical director of the McGill Sports Medicine Centre and consulting staff for the Montreal Canadiens and Montreal Alouettes. David helped develop a trauma care system in Quebec based on regionalization of care. In 1997, he was recognized as a member of the Order of Canada.

AW A R D S A N D A C H I E V E M E N T S


We are extremely excited to kick off the new 2017-2018 academic year. Joining the College of Medicine this year is the Class of 2021, who will experience the fourth iteration of the new 2+2 curriculum. As the old curriculum is being phased out, the overlap period between the old and new curriculum has presented some challenges for both learners and teachers.

There have been space and time constraints, and the students greatly appreciate the extra mile that many preceptors have taken in order to accommodate the increased influx of learners. The transition could not have been done without the amazing contributions from physicians in Saskatchewan, many of whom are College of Medicine alumni.

This year also highlights the accreditation visit of our College of Medicine. The SMSS, representing all College of Medicine students, would like to thank each and every one of the physicians, administrators, and staff who have stepped up to help during this challenging time. We are confident that

(L to R): Jeff Elder (president), Trevor Poole (VP internal jr), Ashley Tshala (VP Regina), Adrianna Gunton (VP academic), Isabel Hedayat (VP internal sr), Braydon Hager (VP finance), Odell Tan (VP external sr). Missing: Daniel Lee (VP external jr), James Hill (VP communications)

Student Medical Society of Saskatchewan

2017 STUDENT BODY

their collective efforts will be rewarded.

To celebrate the achievements of both staff and physicians in this transition phase, we recognized many of them at our Fall Formal celebration. Fall Formal was also an evening to celebrate the many achievements of our current students in the areas of academia and leadership. Many of the Fall Formal awards were generously endowed by previous alumni, and for that, the SMSS would like to thank the alumni for their tireless contributions to our educational experience.

Awards and bursaries provided by the alumni, as well as the donations that provide us with the great learning environment we have, are what make our medical education possible. From the student-organized Global Health Conference to the USask Sono Symposium, the Alumni Association has also been an amazing supporter for student initiatives that provide educational opportunities and encourage a socially accountable College of Medicine.

This coming year, we as students would

like to extend an invite to alumni to increase their face-to-face involvement with the students. We would be happy to meet you at our events, so that we can start getting to know our future colleagues. Coming up in Regina, we have Integration Weekend (November 3-5) and the 3rd Annual Curling Bonspiel (February, 2018). In Saskatoon, we have the Charity Date Auction (January, 2018) and the Alumni-Student Hockey Game (April 2018). There are also plans for an SMSS, SMA and Alumni Association Golf Tournament next summer/fall! If any of these events interest you, be sure to keep an eye out for an invite from Anne-Marie. You are also more than welcome to email Odell Tan, our VP External at [email protected] or visit our SMSS website at www.saskmedstudents.com.

We look forward to seeing you at our events. Thank you again for all of your support.

Sincerely,

The SMSS Executive


PGME celebration night

On September 8th Post Graduate Medical Education held their annual Celebration night. This event celebrated the successes of residents, program directors and program administrators.

Year one orientation

New College of Medicine students enjoy snacks, refreshments and presentations. Pictured above are Alumni Association Board President Dr. Craig Hubbard and Donor Relations and Leadership Giving Officer Steph Hart.

2 0 1 7 S T U D E N T B O D Y

College of Medicine

student statsClass of 2021 (year 1)105 students in Saskatoon14 students who self-declared as AboriginalOne student from the USAStudent Residence: 81 students in SK, one in MB, 11 in AB, seven in BC, three in ON, one in NWT and one in NB

Class of 2020 (year 2)103 students (63 in Saskatoon and 40 in Regina)Seven students who self-declared as AboriginalOne student from Egypt Student Residence: 82 in SK, two in MB, eight in AB, two in BC, eight in ON, 1 in YT

Class of 2019 (year 3) 97 students (61 Saskatoon, 34 Regina and two in Prince Albert)Four students who self-declared as AboriginalOne student from Pakistan Student Residence: 78 in SK, four in AB, four in BC, ten in ON, one in NU

Class of 2018 (year 4)94 students (56 Saskatoon, 35 Regina, and three in Prince Albert)Six students who self-declared as AboriginalTwo from South Korea, one from India Student Residence: 88 in SK, two in AB, two in BC, two in ON

Fall formal 2017

Ashley Tshala presents David Anthony Patrishen with the Spirit of the Class award.

Dr. Jon Dean delivers the keynote address at the Fall Formal.

Fall Formal 2017.


2 0 1 7 S T U D E N T B O D Y

Studies have shown that mentoring is a valuable resource in the life of a learning physician. The knowledge and experience that is shared during the mentoring process is invaluable to students as they navigate their own career path. Having a senior member of the profession come alongside a student to provide support can make the journey of becoming a doctor less difficult.

The College of Medicine facilitates mentorship opportunities through the Synergy Mentorship Program, which matches a practicing physician with a medical student in a one-one-formalized mentoring relationship. Currently the college is looking to pair 41 students with physician mentors, a number that has steadily increased each year since the program’s inception in 2005.

“I’ve noticed the most impact is when a student sees something they think isn’t possible,” said Stephanie Marshall, coordinator of the Synergy Mentorship Program. “They have doubts and it’s overwhelming to them. Then they have a chat with someone senior and then they have hope.”

Coordinated by the Office of Career Advising and Mentorship, the program is intended to be beneficial for both mentor and mentee. As a mentor, you have the opportunity to make a profound impact in the life of a student and shape who they are as a physician. There are many informal things mentees can learn too—finding life balance, choosing and establishing a career and the wisdom gained from an experienced physician.

“We’ve found that mentorship is a great career tool,” continued Marshall. “For mentors it’s the satisfaction of building into a learning physician, being able to instill greater confidence in them and having a renewed interest in their careers. The mentors are helping them achieve their potential.”

While the mentor-mentee relationship can last a lifetime, it begins with dedicating only an hour per month of your time to an open conversation between mentor and mentee, which can take any number of forms—text, phone call, face-to-face, or even a chat tool such as Skype or FaceTime.

For second-year student Cheyenne Lawton, who was paired with surgical oncologist Dr. Gary Groot (MD’82), the insight she gained from her mentorship experience was significant.

“My mentoring relationship has been very valuable to me with

my mentor’s insights and recollections helping to paint a more complete picture of what a medical career entails,” said Layton. “The ability to comfortably discuss personal aspects of my mentor’s career such as work-life balance, and what keeps him passionate about his job years into his career, have made me feel much more comfortable approaching the career defining decisions leading up to residency applications.”

Alumni Association board member Dr. Brian Ulmer (MD’83) is the Synergy Mentorship Ambassador. In this volunteer role he is a liaison between the Office of Career Advising and Mentorship and physicians, and helps facilitates introductions between students and physicians. Although recently retired, Ulmer has mentored several students himself, and enthusiastically champions the career benefits of the program.

“We’re trying to do lifelong learning,” said Ulmer. “Given the job market, it’s extremely important to develop the career path, especially where a small number of residencies exist.” He gave limited residencies in specialities such as plastic surgery and ophthalmology as examples. Ulmer acknowledged that’s it’s not a big time commitment (once a month) and mentors will make a huge impact on their mentees.

“Once the physician puts their name down as a mentor, then it’s a domino effect, they can make a positive effect,” said Ulmer. “Mentors serve as a role model for students to learn about the medical field.”

You can find more information on the Synergy Mentorship program, including how to participate as a mentor, by visiting the College of Medicine website at medicine.usask.ca or by contacting the Office of Career Advising and Mentorship at 306-966-7275.

Guiding a path to successMany successful people can name a mentor who helped guide them on a path to success. It’s no different in medicine.

“Mentorship is a great career tool. For mentors it’s the satisfaction of building into a learning physician, being able to instill greater confidence in them and having a renewed interest in their careers. The mentors are helping them achieve their potential.” STEPHANIE MARSHALL


College of Medicine Career DayWed., Nov. 15

College of Medicine exams (Saskatoon and Regina)Fri., Dec. 1 – Mon., Dec. 11

For more information contact [email protected]

COMING EVENTS

2017

2018Knuckle cup alumni vs. students hockey gameSat., April 7

The Canadian Conference on Medical Education Dean’s Reception (Halifax)Sun., April 29

College of Medicine exams (Saskatoon and Regina)Mon., April 30 – Fri., May 11

University of Saskatchewan ConvocationMon., June 4 – Thurs., June 7

College of Medicine Convocation and Graduation Banquet Thurs., June 7

Highlights in MedicineThurs., June 21 – Sat., June 23

Alumni Association AGMFri., June 22

SMSS, SMA and Alumni Association Members Golf Tournament (Regina)Sat., Aug. 25

University of Saskatchewan Alumni Association centennial dinner in Regina on February 6, 2017.

Knuckle Cup alumni vs. students hockey game March 17, 2017.


Donald (Don) WilsonBA’37, MED’39 Mono, ON d. January 4, 2017

Let us remember those who have walked through our doors, and have since passed on.

IN MEMORIAM

Thomas JohnsonMD’80Medicine Hat, ABd. March 8, 2017

Laurie VassosBSc’75, MD’80Saskatoon, SKd. December 4, 2016

Garth BruceBA’66, MD’70Saskatoon, SKd. November 30, 2016

Wesley (Hugh) McKeeMD’71Saskatoon, SKd. September 13, 2017

Thirza SmithMD’73Saskatoon, SKd. February 27, 2017

John (Jack) HaverBA’46, BEd’49, MD’60 Saskatoon, SKd. January 24, 2017

Geoffrey JamiesonMD’65Calgary, ABd. August 5, 2015

Clive DeutscherMD’67Edmonton, ABd. January 17, 2017

James (Paul) BarschelMD’68Moosomin, SKd. November 30, 2016

Bruce GutzmannMD’68Fairbault, MNd. June 1, 2012

Lee PennerBA’64, MD’68Salmon Arm, BCd. November 4, 2016

Frederick (Fred) BoughenMED’51, BA’51Victoria, BCd. December 25, 2016

Harold LaimonBA’49, MED’51Vancouver, BCd. January 19, 2017

John VarleyBA’48, MED’51Langley, BCd. February 10, 2017

Jack AdolphBA’50, MED’52Saskatoon, SKd. June 29, 2017

Patrick Dolan BA’46, MA’48, MED’52Mariette, GAd. June 18, 2016

William KlassenMED’52Regina, SKd. March 23, 2017

Gordon PirieBA’49, MED’52Vancouver, BCd. December 1, 2016

Frederick MorrisBA’51, MED’54Moose Jaw, SKd. January 28, 2017

George ElliottBA’55, MD’58Kelowna, BCd. September 18, 2016

Melvin OpsethBA’55, MD’59Saskatoon, SKd. January 5, 2017

Robert Logan BA’42, MED’42 New Westminster, BC d. July 1, 2017

1930s

1940s

1950s 1960s 1970s

1980s

There are countless opportunities for new physicians across Saskatchewan, from big cities to small towns, southern grasslands to northern lake country. Trying to decide between these options can be overwhelming so the SMA’s Committee on Rural and Regional Practice and the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee launched the Roadmap Program. Every year the Roadmap Program takes students and residents on tours of rural and regional communities around the province to give them a taste of life and practice in rural Saskatchewan. They connect with local physicians, see a variety of practice choices and get a snapshot of what they can expect out of life in each community.

EXPLOREtheirOPTIONS

www.sma.sk.ca/roadmap

[email protected]

helping students and residents

HOW CAN YOU HELP?• Host a Roadmap Tour in your community• Welcome students to shadow in your rural/regional practice• Become a preceptor

If you’re interested, please contact us at: [email protected] 306.244.2196


There are countless opportunities for new physicians across Saskatchewan, from big cities to small towns, southern grasslands to northern lake country. Trying to decide between these options can be overwhelming so the SMA’s Committee on Rural and Regional Practice and the Specialist Recruitment and Retention Committee launched the Roadmap Program. Every year the Roadmap Program takes students and residents on tours of rural and regional communities around the province to give them a taste of life and practice in rural Saskatchewan. They connect with local physicians, see a variety of practice choices and get a snapshot of what they can expect out of life in each community.

EXPLOREtheirOPTIONS

www.sma.sk.ca/roadmap

[email protected]

helping students and residents

HOW CAN YOU HELP?• Host a Roadmap Tour in your community• Welcome students to shadow in your rural/regional practice• Become a preceptor

If you’re interested, please contact us at: [email protected] 306.244.2196

2017–22S T R AT E G I C P L A N

We are leaders in improving the health and well-being of the people of Saskatchewan and the world.

V I S I O N

M I S S I O N

As a socially accountable organization, we improve health through innovative and interdisciplinary research and education, leadership, community engagement, and the development of culturally competent, skilled clinicians and scientists.

Collaborative and mutually beneficial partnerships with Indigenous peoples and communities are central to our mission.

VA LU E S A N D P R I N C I P L E S

ValuesCollegiality, fairness and equitable treatment, inclusiveness, integrity, honesty and ethical behaviour and respect.

PrinciplesAcademic freedom, collaboration, commitment to community, different ways of knowing, learning and being, diversity, equality and human dignity, excellence, a healthy work and learning environment, innovation, curiosity and creativity, openness, transparency and accountability, reconciliation and sustainability.

The College of Medicine will focus on the following seven strategic priority areas.

The following three enablers are instrumental to advancing the College of Medicine strategic plan.

S T R AT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

Strengthen research capacity

Education

Social accountability and community engagement

Indigenous health

Empower and engage faculty

Distributed medical education

Integration and alignment with the health system

E N A B L E R S

PeoplePartnerships and relationshipsOrganizational capacity

Visit medicine.usask.ca/strategic-plan to learn more.

R E T U R N U N D E L I V E R A B L E C A N A D I A N A D D R E S S E S T O :

C O L L E G E O F M E D I C I N EU N I V E R S I T Y O F S A S K AT C H E W A N5 D 4 0 H E A LT H S C I E N C E S B U I L D I N G , 1 0 7 W I G G I N S R O A DS A S K AT O O N , S K S 7 N 5 E 5

C A N A D I A N P U B L I C AT I O N S M A I L A G R E E M E N T 4 0 0 0 5 6 1 4

Established in 1907, the University of Saskatchewan has a long history of excellence. We are a member of the U15 group of Canada’s top research-intensive universities, offering unique facilities such as the Canadian Light Source, VIDO-InterVac and the

Global Institute for Water Security. The university is committed to First Nations, Métis and Inuit student success and to welcoming diverse perspectives and ways of

knowing, both from across Saskatchewan and around the world.

indigenous health...university of saskatchewan college of medicine alumni magazine indigenous health...

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