Northern Routes

Philanthropy for Social Accountability

“Philanthrōpos” is a Greek word that means love of humankind. It brings people together and has the power to unite groups in a collective manner, inspiring improvements based on social accountability. In many ways this is NOSM’s mantra as we embark on a new strategic path and renew our commitment to social accountability. NOSM is more than a medical school; it is a government strategy to address the health needs of Northern Ontarians, improve access to quality care, and contribute to the economic development of Northern Ontario. Your medical school –in the north, for the north, by the north– was established with...

Demonstrating impact and leading for change

Foremost on in our minds these days is the filing for court protection under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) by Laurentian University. Many of you, our friends and partners, have expressed concern for NOSM and the effect this may have on us. As NOSM’s degree-granting institutions, both Laurentian University and Lakehead University hold endowments, tuition and research funds for our School. These are complex relationships that I am managing with Ray Hunt, Chief Operating Officer, Grace Vita, Director of Risk Management, and our legal counsel. We are working collaboratively to ensure our assets are protected. NOSM is...

Winter is here with purpose.

A truly powerful purpose statement is one that achieves two objectives: it must clearly articulate strategic goals and it must motivate the workforce. These objectives are equally important, both individually and synergistically. That is to say, when we understand and embrace our organization’s purpose, we’re inspired to do work that not only is good, but great. The NOSM mission is to improve the health of Northern Ontarians by being socially accountable in our education and research programs and advocating for health equity. This vision is the inspiration and motivation for the School’s new initiatives, including founding NOS...