NOSM Announces Two Appointments

The Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) is pleased to announce two new appointments. Jonathan Barrett will serve as Director, Human Resources, and John Shea as Clinical Coordinator, Physician Assistant (PA) Program.

Mr. Barrett, in his capacity as Human Resources Director, will assist in the support, management, and direction of the unit as it relates to administrative functions, the development of hiring practices, and the promotion and retention of skilled talent. Mr. Barrett has held senior positions with the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines & Forestry and the Ontario Public Service. Mr. Barrett’s previous employment experiences demonstrate an understanding of, and sensitivity to, the service needs of the people of Northern Ontario which he has represented during various stages of policy and legislative development. He is also well versed in the demands of a client and labour pool which includes Aboriginal and Francophone populations, and Persons with a Disability.

His notable achievements include the provision of strategic leadership, motivation, and support to a large staff responsible for government services to citizens in 33 Northern Ontario communities. Accompanying these strengths are the leadership qualities he has shown in consultative employee relations, collective agreement administration, labour relations, and workforce planning.

NOSM is also pleased to welcome John Shea to the position of Clinical Coordinator, Physician Assistant (PA) Program. This new position was created in response to the administration, teaching and scholarly demands of the Physician Assistant program, a unique collaboration between NOSM, The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences, and the University of Toronto.

Mr. Shea has a portfolio of diverse experiences, which includes being a practicing Physician Assistant in the Canadian Armed Forces. He has held various posts as a Physician Assistant instructor and, more recently, has been involved in the development and implementation of the Canadian Forces Physician Assistant program in Borden, Ontario.

His skills in administration and development are well suited to developing components of the PA program, monitoring student progress, and overseeing clinical experiences of second-year students.

NOSM Dean, Dr. Roger Strasser, acknowledged the significance of the candidates’ participation in the School. “I am pleased to welcome Jonathan Barrett and John Shea to the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. The extensive and relevant experience they bring to their respective positions will assist the School in meeting its administrative responsibilities and in providing essential services to NOSM learners,” he said.