SLP and Audiology Preceptor Award Nominees

Winner – Sally Guillemette – Cochrane Timiskaming Children’s Treatment Centre

We are thrilled to present the Commitment to Clinical Education Award to Sally Guillemette in recognition of her outstanding dedication and contributions to the field of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) education. Since 2014, Sally  has welcomed at least one SLP student every year, offering them invaluable placement opportunities. Sally’s teaching approach is described as nothing short of exceptional. From the moment she steps into the office, she is fully prepared and eager to educate her students on a wide array of topics. Her students have consistently praised her ability to impart knowledge not only about the profession but also in all areas of clinical competencies. What truly sets Sally apart as an educator is her unwavering support and encouragement. Throughout the learning process, she fosters an environment where students feel empowered to attempt new interventions and assessments without hesitation. Her approachable nature and willingness to address any question, no matter how trivial it may seem, make her a standout clinical instructor. One of her students shared, “She started off the whole placement making me comfortable to ask questions about anything… I have never had a clinical instructor as receptive as she was.”

Nominees:

• Sally Guillemette – Cochrane Timiskaming Children’s Treatment Centre
• Sara King – Thrive Children’s Treatment Centre (Blind River)
• Lori Spicer – George Jeffrey Children’s Centre
• Susan Coulter – Children’s Centre Thunder Bay
• Theresa Le – FIREFLY
• Kelsey Belanger – George Jeffrey Children’s Centre

Winner – Carrie Linklater – North Bay Regional Health Centre

Since joining the North Bay Regional Health Centre in 2009, Carrie has been a cornerstone in the Speech Pathology department, touching countless lives with her expertise and compassionate care. However, what truly sets Carrie apart is her innovative approach to clinical education. Innovation is about finding new, better, and more effective ways to solve problems. Carrie embodies this spirit in her role as a preceptor. She has been nominated for this award due to her remarkable ability to adapt her teaching methods to suit the individual needs of each student. By doing so, she ensures that every student under her guidance receives the utmost learning experience, tailored to their unique strengths and challenges. Carrie’s dedication to fostering innovation in clinical education sets a gold standard for preceptors everywhere. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with her adaptability and student-centered approach, makes her truly deserving of this prestigious award.

Nominee:

• Carrie Linklater – North Bay Regional Health Centre

Winners – Brenda Liddle & Allan Gowan – Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare

We are thrilled to announce Brenda Liddle as this year’s recipient of the Interprofessional Collaborator Award. Brenda’s dedication to the field of Speech-Language Pathology and her commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration truly sets her apart. For over 22 years, Brenda has been an invaluable member of the Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare team. Her journey began after obtaining her Master’s in Speech Pathology from the University of Alberta. One of Brenda’s remarkable qualities is her ability to foster interdisciplinary learning. She has taken the initiative to arrange shadowing opportunities with individuals from various healthcare disciplines, enriching the learning experience for her students. Her commitment to interprofessional education extends beyond her immediate role, as she has provided educational sessions to NOSM University medical students on adult communication disorders and dysphagia. Moreover, Brenda has conducted workshops for community healthcare practitioners on Supported Conversation for Adults with Aphasia, sharing her expertise and enhancing the quality of care in the community.

Allana Gowan, a dedicated Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) at Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, is one of this year’s recipients of the prestigious Interprofessional Collaborator Award. With a career spanning over two decades in acute care and rehabilitation across multiple hospitals in Ontario, including Burlington, Toronto, Cambridge, Parry Sound, and now Muskoka, Allana has consistently showcased her commitment to excellence and interprofessional collaboration. Allana’s supervisory skills have left an indelible mark on her students. As one student aptly put it, “Allana is a fantastic supervisor. She encourages discussion, always answers questions, and demonstrates how to effectively collaborate as part of an interdisciplinary team.” She is known for her dedication to providing learning opportunities that foster the growth of clinical skills and a deeper understanding of healthcare provision in Northern Ontario.

Nominees:

• Brenda Liddle – Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare
• Allana Gowan – Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare

Winner – Rachel Pessah – Bright Spot Therapy Services

We are thrilled to present the Northern Ambassador Award to Rachel Pessah, a dedicated speech-language pathologist and the founder of Bright Spot Therapy Services Ltd. Born and raised in Timmins, Ontario, Rachel returned to her hometown to make a meaningful impact on her community’s well-being. Rachel believes that her expertise today is a testament to the incredible preceptors and supervisors she learned from as a student. With a deep sense of responsibility, Rachel actively mentors and supports aspiring speech-language pathologists, often welcoming students to her Bright Spot office. Her commitment to being a Northern Ambassador goes beyond her professional role. She embraces the beauty and culture of Northern Ontario, introducing her students to the wonders of Timmins and beyond. From exploring trails and beaches to experiencing paddle-board yoga, Rachel ensures her students have a rich and diverse experience. In a true display of ambassadorship, Rachel initiated a unique bingo game for her summer students. With a social media campaign engaging local residents, she encouraged them to share their favorite Timmins activities. This innovative approach not only promoted community involvement but also enriched her students’ Northern Ontario experience. Rachel embodies the spirit of the Northern Ambassador Award. Her passion, dedication, and commitment to her community, students, and profession make her a shining example of what it means to be a Northern Ambassador.

Nominees:

• Rachel Pessah – Bright Spot Therapy Services
• Myriam Bernier – FIREFLY
• Kelsey Belanger – George Jeffrey Children’s Centre
• Natasha Roy – One Kids Place