Amplifying Impact Through Community Engagement

As I sit down to write this, I can’t help but reflect on the wild and unpredictable weather we’ve experienced in Northern Ontario since the official start of spring. From snowstorms that seemed to come out of nowhere, to freezing rain, followed by bursts of sunshine quickly replaced by cold winds, it’s been a reminder of how quickly things can change. But, just like the weather, our progress at NOSM University is resilient, driven by the passion and determination of our community. Despite the challenges, we continue to build a brighter, more equitable future together.

One of the significant moments since my last update was NOSM University’s participation in the 2025 International Congress on Academic Medicine (ICAM) Conference in Halifax, where representatives from all Canadian medical schools gathered to exchange ideas, address shared challenges, and celebrate successes in medical education. For NOSM University, this conference was an important opportunity to reflect on our unique role in Canadian medical education. As the only stand-alone medical university in the country, we are proud of the distinctive position we hold. But what truly sets us apart is not just our independence—it’s our commitment to collaboration. Our mandate to provide equitable health care in underserved regions, combined with our deep relationships with other medical schools, places us at the forefront of innovation, education, and health-care solutions.

Our vision is shaped by the leadership that has guided us along the way. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, I reflect on the exceptional work of Founding Dean, Dr. Roger Stasser and the leadership of founding President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean, and CEO, Dr. Sarita Verma. Their vision has helped propel NOSM University into a national leader in health professions education with a focus on serving rural and remote communities. Their contributions laid the groundwork for an institution that not only educates health-care professionals but also leads with purpose, serving as a model for what a medical university can achieve. I had a chance to meet with Dr. Strasser at ICAM and share thoughts about the past and future for NOSM at this 20 year anniversary.

As we reflect on our past, we also look ahead. We’re in the early stages of planning for our 2026-2030 strategic plan, and I’m excited to share that community engagement will be at the heart of this process. Strategic planning isn’t just about setting goals—it’s about ensuring those goals reflect the voices, needs, and values of the people they impact. A plan is only as strong as the community behind it, which is why we’re committed to hearing from you. Whether it’s a story about a local issue, a suggestion for improvement, or a shared hope for the future, every voice adds depth to the conversation.

Our community engagement is about recognizing and valuing the lived experiences of individuals. Through online surveys, virtual and in-person meetings, we are ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to share their thoughts, no matter where they are or how busy their schedules may be. This is our chance to amplify our collective impact by working together to create a future that is meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable.

As we embrace this next chapter of strategic planning, I invite you to join us in making this process as inclusive as possible. In April, we’ll be holding a series of community visits, and I encourage all those who can participate to join us and if you are not able, please contribute your thoughts through our survey. This is an opportunity to connect with NOSM University, share your thoughts, and contribute to our vision.

March was an incredibly busy month, filled with significant milestones. From celebrating the International Day of La Francophonie to supporting our learners through Match Day, we’ve seen resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to health equity. It’s these moments that remind us of the strength of our community and our shared mission to provide equitable health care and education.

As we continue to build on the legacy of those who have come before us and shape a future that is inclusive, innovative, and focused on real-world solutions, I’m incredibly excited for what lies ahead. Together, we are creating a vision that not only serves the North but can also serve as a model for health care education across Canada.

Thank you for your continued commitment and engagement in this important journey. Your voice matters, your experiences matter, and together, we will create meaningful change.

Warm regards,

Dr. Michael Green
President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean, and CEO
NOSM University

If you have any feedback or comments, please reach out at president@nosm.ca and follow me on X (formerly Twitter) @DrMichaelGreen1.

Join us as we Shape the Future of NOSM University

Over the coming months, these in-person gatherings will provide an opportunity for faculty, preceptors, staff, learners, partner organizations and community members to engage in meaningful discussions about our shared successes and challenges. Join us at a location near you.

Join us at the Society for Rural Physicians of Canada (SRPC) Reception

Please join us for a reception at the SRPC Conference in Winnipeg to connect and discuss the exciting developments happening at NOSM University.

April 24, 2025
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
RBC Convention Centre
375 York Avenue
Winnipeg, MB
RSVP

Register for Northern Constellations & Connections & Northern Lights 2025

Join us for Northern Constellations & Connections 2025, Northern Ontario’s premier faculty and preceptor conference. Register for Northern Constellations & Connections 2025 and/or join us at the NOSM University Achievement Celebration where we honour this year’s award recipients. Visit the conference website to explore the full agenda!

Save the Date: Northern Health Research Conference

The 20th annual Northern Health Research Conference will be held from Monday, June 16 to Tuesday June 17, 2025, in Thunder Bay. The conference will be offered in a hybrid format, with the option to attend in-person or online. Registration is opening soon. Visit the NOSM University website for more information. Dr. Kristen Morin, an Assistant Professor at NOSM University, is the Keynote Speaker. Dr. Morin is an affiliated Researcher with the Health Sciences North Research Institute, and an ICES North Fellow. Her keynote address is titled ‘Respecting Lives, Enhancing Care: Addressing the Opioid Crisis with Compassion.’