Chuck Schmitt Student Bursary Fund

From the early years of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and the development of the MD program’s third-year Comprehensive Community Clerkship in Dryden, Chuck was eager to get involved. Over the years, he warmly welcomed hundreds of medical students, residents and other health learners to the community and made them feel at home. A great mentor to physician recruiters and NOSM University’s SACs across the North, Chuck was always thrilled to share his wealth of knowledge.

The supportive environment Chuck created in his hometown enabled him to recruit many physicians to the Dryden Regional Health Centre and the Dryden Area Family Health Team. He was proud of the NOSM University graduates who chose to practise in the community, and of their commitment to health equity—particularly for the Indigenous, Francophone and LGBTQ2S+ communities.

Chuck dedicated himself to fostering community through his passion for sports. Beyond sports, he was a devoted family man who understood the importance of individual connections. He prioritized one-on-one family time, creating special moments tailored to each person’s interests. Chuck leaves behind an incredible legacy and lengthy list of accomplishments across the North. Chuck embraced every aspect of life with a genuine and infectious enthusiasm, always stating that life is a gift and that you only live once. Without a doubt, he changed our lives, and we are better for having known him.