Student Fall 2019-2020 ElectionsNOSMSC Executive Positions

Representatives Electoral Text

NOSMSC Year 1 Class Representative 1. East Rep – Year 1 (1 year term)

Candidates: Mathieu Rheault-Henry, Y1, EAST

2. West Rep – Year 1 (1 year term)Candidate: Lyndon Letwin, Y1, WEST

Mathieu Rheault-Henry, Y1, EASTHello friends! My name is Mat also known Jean-Claude (don’t ask, I don’t know). I hereby inform that I’m running as your class mascot for #classof2024 #lawschool. I mean president. Wait, Dean? CLASS REPRESENTATIVE that’s what it is. That’s what Jordan does! He’s a good guy. Shoutout to Jordan for being an awesome first/second year rep. Ok now that I’ve figured out what I’m supposed to be doing, let’s get down to business. As we’ve learned very quickly the most important CANMEDS role is the one of a great communicator. As your rep, I’ll make sure to spam all your inboxes with important news concerning drumroll please………..……..........parties. More specifically, med games, winter formal and the wicked awesome admissions interview video that we’re going to create for the incoming class of 2020! But most of all, all things that will help us in our future at NOSM! I guess I should stop cracking jokes and get to the real reason I wrote this text. I would say that it’s to make me stand out from my competitors (but that’s a lie as you can CLEARLY see). At the end of the day, I want to give each and every one of you an opportunity to voice your concerns to me so that I can talk to the big bosses and potentially make changes that are going to benefit us in the future. I hope that I have your vote for this year (hahaha my competitors don’t stand a chance) and that you don’t compare me to all the wonderful things Jordan set up for us in September. I’m still trying to figure out school .

Have an awesome day guys!

Mat

Lyndon Letwin, Y1, WEST

VP Global Health1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Year 1, 2,

or 3 (2 year term)Candidate: Chelsea Kubinec, Y3, WESTDanica Desjardins, Y1, EASTAidan Goertzen, Y1, EASTBeth Crawford, Y1, EASTKaty Albrecht, Y1, WEST

Chelsea Kubinec, Y3, WESTDear NOSM students,

I am honoured to have been nominated for VP Global Health.

Prior to medical school, I completed an undergraduate and master’s degree in microbiology and immunology with research focusing on Campylobacter jejuni, a major cause of severe gastroenteritis in humans. Since returning to Thunder Bay, I have been working on research specific to Haemophilus influenzae, an organism capable of causing serious invasive disease in humans (including meningitis, epiglottitis, and sepsis). Both C. jejuni and H. influenzae are prevalent bacteria worldwide and cause significant morbidity.

Student My overall interests include microbiology, immunology, virology, and parasitology. Currently, I would like to specialize in Internal Medicine (?infectious disease). Through this route, I’m hoping to get involved with global health initiatives, recognizing that many areas (even within Canada) lack equitable healthcare resources, making those living in these areas at increased risk of invasive infectious disease.

While I have not previously been involved with the Global Health Interest Group or Student’s Council, I am a quick learner and I am committed to doing the best job that I can. I have been involved with the Altitude Mentoring Program (both as a participant and as an executive member) and have been involved with the Internal Medicine Interest Group at the executive level since my first year at NOSM. I believe that the skills I obtained have adequately prepared me for the role of VP Global Health. I am organized, friendly, and enjoy working with others.

Thank you so much for your consideration!

Chelsea Kubinec, M.Sc.Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Class of 2021ckubinec@nosm.ca

Danica Desjardins, Y1, EASTMy name is Danica and I’m a first year student on the East campus. I’m originally from Sault Ste. Marie and have a Bachelor of Health Sciences and a Master of Public Health. My interest in global health stems from a practicum placement in Arviat, Nunavut during my MPH. This exposure to healthcare in a low-resource setting deepened my appreciation for global health as a field of work and study.

I am particularly passionate about global women’s health, having worked closely with the global health team at the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada for two years. This work gave me an inside look at the logistics of organizing global health work and the value of partnerships between Canadian and local medical specialty organizations for skills-sharing and capacity-building.

Beyond my interest in the field, I have lots of practical experience with organizing courses and meetings, which will certainly be an asset in fulfilling the responsibilities of VP Global Health. If elected, I would be interested in reaching out to various Canadian organizations that are currently involved in global health work to seek out opportunities for collaboration with NOSM students.

Aidan Goertzen, Y1, EASTHey y’all - Aidan from the East here! I was born in rural Manitoba, raised in Thunder Bay, went to school in Quebec, and recently added Sudbury to the list of places I call home. I am interested in global health because of the idea that where people live and what they do impacts their health and wellbeing. I have an undergrad from McGill University (Montreal) in Sustainability, Science, and Society. My degree focused on the impact of climate change, poverty, and development on individuals and society. After that, I did a Master’s of Environment and Health at U of T where I researched the impact of climate change on Arctic food security. I love to step back and look at the big picture in order to understand how we can understand different health issues across the globe. I have

Student studied a variety of global health issues across the world including:•           Malnutrition, mental illness, and disease due to political conflict•           Rise in prevalence of Zika and Chikungunya virus due to flooding in BarbadosAs VP Global Health I want to use my non-traditional background to bring in global health topics from medical and non-medical disciplines, coordinate global health opportunities at NOSM and beyond (did I mention I love administration!), and get people interested in the subject of Global Health.

Beth Crawford, Y1, EAST

Katy Albrecht, Y1, WEST Hi guys, I’m Katy! I am applying for the VP of Global Health. Global Health has been a near and dear topic to my heart since graduating from nursing school in 2015. I sought out a Third World Medicine course soon after becoming an RN, which led to an opportunity to volunteer in Ethiopia in a rural clinic, as well as in Haiti at a children’s clinic. The experiences I had in these countries opened my eyes to the health needs around the world and how much tangible help we can give to so many people through medicine. Seeing vaccine-preventable diseases first hand, as well as so many other conditions that are mostly eradicated in the first-world, makes you thankful for where you grew up, but also gives you a sense of duty to use the privilege that you’ve been given to bridge some of the gaps.

After my trip to Ethiopia, I decided that becoming a doctor was what I wanted to do, but not before gaining some more medical experience. So, after working in Timmins for almost 3 years, I was able to get a fly-in position as a nurse in Kashechewan First Nation, where health disparities were once again very evident. This experience allowed me to realize that global health also meant our back door. When Canada isn’t healthy, we can’t help out the rest of the world.

All that to say, I would love to be the VP of Global Health to raise awareness regarding the healthcare needs of those in foreign countries, but also to raise awareness of the health disparities that are right in our own communities and sister communities, and to encourage medical students to consider practicing in Northern Ontario and taking initiatives to volunteer when possible.

NOSMSC Recording Secretary1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Year 1, 2,

3 or 4 (1 year term)Candidate:Brittany Pennock, Y2, WEST

Brittany Pennock, Y2, WEST

VP External Jr.1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Year 1, 2 or 3 (2 year term)Candidate:Chelsea Rehak, Y1, EASTChandy Mensour, Y1, EAST

Chelsea Rehak, Y1, EASTHey Guys! You really can’t go wrong with choosing either candidate for VP External Jr, but I can share with you a little bit

about myself in hopes that you might pick me. I am currently a nurse and I still work casually in North Bay. Aside from that I have been active in volunteering with victims of sexual assault and poverty. As your rep for VP External Jr, I believe that my background is a great asset to have when corresponding and working with other medical schools and sitting on OMSA and CFMS.

I want to try and make this a great year for everyone! I would be acting as a representative for all of you. So that means your opinions and ideas matter and will be the basis of my platform and work for the 2-year term. I know lots of us want to get involved and get out into our communities to build connections and have some great experiences. I plan on making that easy for you by actively finding out what events are going on and making sure that NOSM can be in attendance.

Student If you guys have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Chandy Mensour, Y1, EASTHello everyone! I am a first year student from the East and I am applying for the VP External Junior position to be part of the Student Council. As a NOSM representative sitting on the OMSA and CFMS I would ensure that we as students are well represented at the provincial and federal level by listening to your opinions and concerns. While collaborating with other medical students, I will strive to advocate for the issues unique to us students learning in Northern Ontario. My goals in this role would include advocating for adequate residency positions and improving access to health care services for priority populations. I further hope to use my proficient communication and leadership skills to accomplish these objectives.

Hope you have a good weekend!Chandy

NOSM Committee Positions

Representatives Electoral Text

Academic Council Representative 1. Year 1 Rep ANY campus (2 year

term) Candidate:Imran Bagha, Y1, WESTAdam Ritchie, Y1, EAST*Preferably an Indigenous or Francophone student

Imran Bagha, Y1, WESTThe main role of the Academic Council is to guide the development of NOSM’s academic program under both Laurentian and Lakehead Universities. This means understanding how both universities operate, and from there, negotiating the needs of our med school. It also means understanding best practices in academic and medical education to make decisions that will improve our medical program.I believe I am best suited in this role because I have experience with both Lakehead and Laurentian, as well as a breadth of academic best practices.Sudbury

I grew up in Sudbury and have partnered with Laurentian University both a student, and later in my career in business development. I’ve taught at Laurentian and I personally know the leaders of several academic programs, so I know their priorities when it comes to students and staff. Because I intimately understand Laurentian’s relationship with NOSM, I will ensure Laurentian continues to give priority to NOSM and NOSM students in Sudbury.

In order to continue improving our medical education, you need a committee representative that is aware of the resources that exist for students. I’ve served on the Board and several Committees at Health Sciences North, and have held several positions in the healthcare field in Sudbury, so I know the hospital and community resources for students in Sudbury, and I understand learner needs.

Thunder Bay

Student I’m a current student at NOSM West, which puts me in a great place to be able to communicate with leadership at Lakehead and

ensure that NOSM West students are given priority by Lakehead U. There’s no better way to understand the needs of NOSM West students than to be here, living it.

With my understanding of the Laurentian-NOSM relationship, I have a baseline to approach the Lakehead-NOSM relationship. And by going through the curriculum here in Thunder Bay, I’ll understand the challenges and needs we have here, and will be your voice on the Academic Committee level to ensure that you are heard.

Academic I have attended 4 universities in Ontario, 2 universities aboard (Turkey and Australia), and have worked for 2 universities. My

exposure to different models of education has given me insight into the strengths and drawbacks to different academic approaches. I want the UME program at NOSM to reflect the best that an educational institution can offer, and my experience with different schools will let me speak to educational best practices for us students.

I care deeply about collaborative work and want to serve your needs and interests. If you have concerns about academic-related matters at NOSM, I will best be able to legitimize them to the committee because I know who to talk to, and having worked with academics before, I know how to get things done.

Adam Ritchie, Y1, EASTClass of ‘23

I am honoured to be nominated as the First year representative for the Academic Council here at NOSM. Having a strong interest in the Academic style we have been introduced to this far in medical school, I feel very passionate about wanting to maintain, and improve, the inclusiveness and standards NOSM has shown us to date. Being your class representative within this Council, not only will I make sure you are informed on what occurs within this council, but will do my part in putting forth concerns, to make sure the Academic compartments of NOSM stay true to their constitution and continue to improve the reflection of those values moving forward. Being of indigenous background myself, I will never forget the importance of making sure I take a step back to view any input, or procedure, from the many perspectives we have here in our Class and will do my best to make sure those are always reflected through the council as well.

Vote me for your first year representative within the Academic Council and I will do whatever I can to make sure our class is well represented and our concerns are heard.

Sincerely,Adam Ritchie

Admissions Committee Representative

Mathieu Rheault-Henry, Y1, EAST

Student 1. East Rep – Year 1,2 or 3 (2 year term)Candidate: Mathieu Rheault-Henry, Y1, EASTKelsey Pitre, Y2, EASTJasmin Aggarwal, Y1, EASTCourtney Langois, Y1, EAST

2. West Rep – Year 1, 2, or 3 (2 year Term)Candidate:Daseul Shin, Y1, WESTAlannah MacLean, Y2, WESTVictor Xiao, Y1, WEST

Kelsey Pitre, Y2, EASTHello friends!

My name is Kelsey Pitre and I would love to be your Admissions Committee Representative for the upcoming academic year.

As a second year medical student, having been immersed in the NOSM curriculum for over a year and having had the opportunity to interact with many of NOSM’s students, I feel that I would be a strong asset to NOSM’s admissions committee. Having been through a year of medical school, I believe that I would be able to bring a student’s perspective to the conversation of admissions. NOSM has a unique curriculum that favours motivated students who are self-directed and who thrive in distributed learning environments. Only NOSM’s medical students truly understand the academic and personal challenges that come with going through this process. Furthermore, I have been surrounded by all of you stellar classmates for the past year – and this has helped me to understand what makes great medical students! Having classmates whom you can rely on for both social and academic support can make all of the difference in succeeding in medical school.

Known around the world for its social accountability mandate, NOSM continues to lead by example when it comes to integrating medical sciences with engaging community experiences that encompass the needs of the people of the North. As someone who was born and raised in Northern Ontario, I am very passionate about the school’s mandate to educate physicians who will be socially accountable to the needs and diversity of the populations of Northern Ontario.

If elected to this position, I would be more than willing to listen to the feedback of current medical students with regards to the admissions process. We have all been through it and we understand the stress that comes with it. I would hope to be an advocate for the students on this committee!

Thank you for your consideration!

Jasmin Aggarwal, Y1, EAST

Courtney Langois, Y1, EASTHey everybody!

Do you still remember getting your acceptance into NOSM? Maybe that memory feels like lightyears away between all of the lectures and studying (and social events), but for me it still feels like yesterday (maybe because it pretty much was). My name is Courtney Langlois and I am a first-year medical student on the East. My entire life has been in the North, for the North, by the North. I spent eight years of my childhood in Sault Ste. Marie, three years in Chapleau, and most of my life in Timmins. After graduating nursing in Timmins, I worked as a Public Health Nurse for three years, and here I am now, a (relatively) mature student who would like to be your Admissions Committee Representative.

As you probably remember from the countless hours you spent studying the NOSM website, our school wants the student population to reflect the demographics of Northern Ontario. Since I am a mature student, a mother, a nurse, and have spent my whole life in Northern

Student communities that are inclusive of Indigenous and Francophone populations, I think my unique experience would allow me to select suitable candidates. As your Admissions Committee Representative, I promise to meet the demographics criteria, and I will try to ensure the suitable candidates are just as great as us.

Thank you,

Courtney Langlois

Daseul Shin, Y1, WESTHello, My name is Dee and I am a first-year student on the West campus!To tell you a bit about myself, my family and I immigrated to Canada when I was 10 years old. It was a crazy and rocky start that shook my world, but I can’t complain! I am who I am because of all those highs and lows.I moved around a lot as a kid, and never really felt like any place was my true home until Thunder Bay, which was a big deal for me. Anyway, I graduated from Psychology here at Lakehead University and completed two years of nursing before starting here at NOSM! I enjoy going on walks, and seeing the beautiful sunrise over Lake Superior! I am interested in being the first-year representative for the West for the Admissions Committee because I believe that I can bring a different voice to the table. At several points in my process of preparing and applying to medical schools, I felt a certain kind of limitation to what “I” could do to reach my dream. Canadian medical schools are one of the hardest places to gain acceptance for any individual. However, we need to acknowledge that for certain minority groups, there are additional educational, social, and economic barriers that create difficulties in pursuing medicine. I would like to be a part of this committee to represent a voice I believe is underrepresented and find ways to work together to understand and advocate for those students. Thank you for taking the time to read my speech! Dee

Alannah MacLean, Y2, WEST

Justin Roy, Y1, WEST

Victor Xiao, Y1, WESTAwards Committee Representative1. Year 1 Rep ANY campus(4 year term)Candidate: Kayla Simmons, Y1, EAST

Kayla Simmons, Y1, EAST

Aidan Goertzen, Y1, EASTHey everyone – My name is Aidan and I want to give you money (if I am elected, of course). All jokes aside, I can appreciate how expensive medical school is for you and I really want to reduce that stress by distributing the bursaries and awards fairly to everyone. Wouldn’t it be

Student Aidan Goertzen, Y1, EASTGill Nearing, Y1, EASTVictor Xiao, Y1, WEST

nice to only eat Mr. Noodles five days out of the week, instead of seven? I wish you all the best in your studies and I hope that Christmas arrives early this year as a package of bursaries with your name on it.

Gill Nearing, Y1, EAST

Victor Xiao, Y1, WESTMy name is Victor, and I am a first year medical student on the west campus, who did a HBSc (Bio + Chem) and a BA (Econ) concurrently at Lakehead University from 2014-2019. I think that my undergrad background in economics and finance will allow me to provide a knowledgeable and valuable voice that will ultimately help the process of developing, implementing, or evaluating protocols of UME distribution of awards and financial aid in a fair and equitable manner. Victor Xiao.

Community Learning Sessions (CLS) Committee Representative1. Year 1 Rep ANY campus (1 year

term)Candidates:Gill Nearing, Y1, EASTImran Bagha, Y1, WESTBrooke Moncrief, Y1, WESTBrett Caccamo, Y1, WEST

2. Year 2 Rep ANY campus(1 year term)Candidates:Brooke Raycraft, Y2, WESTAlison Marchand, Y2, WEST

Gill Nearing, Y1, EAST

Imran Bagha, Y1, WEST

Brooke Moncrief, Y1, WESTI have previous experience representing the student voice through my role as the Coordinator for the Graduate Diploma in Professional Kinesiolology at Lakehead University. Within the position I recruited placement partners across Canada, as well as presented student experiences to the Graduate Diploma committee to help solidify a comprehensive list of partnerships where students could gain valuable learning experiences. I strongly believe that being immersed in within the community is the best way to learn and look forward to the opportunity to represent this year’s Y1 student voice.

Brett Caccamo, Y1, WEST

Brooke Raycraft, Y2, WEST"CLS is one aspect of NOSM's UME program that is truly unique. These sessions allow us the opportunity to learn in our communities beside various health care professionals and health/social services that we may never have exposure to otherwise. That being said, bringing the student voice/perspective in regards to CLS is extremely important! I am always open to all rants (good or bad), insights, and suggestions you have to give. I feel very passionately about CLS and I hope to represent the 2022 class for another year to the CLS committee."

Thanks!

Alison Lewis, Y2, WESTHey! My name is Alison Lewis and I am a second-year student on the west campus. I am running for CLS Committee Representative. CLS is a very important part of our learning and is one of my favourite parts about NOSM. It is us students experiencing the various CLS

Student sessions and therefore it is vital that student voices are heard when decisions are being made to continue to improve learning experiences in CLS. I personally will advocate for more physician CLS placements as I find them the most helpful for exploring different careers/specialties. I am very approachable and will be sure to communicate student feedback efficiently. Thanks for this opportunity!

Health Sciences Library Advisory Group Representative 1. East Rep – Years 1, 2, 3 or 4(1 year

term)Candidate: Usama Fraaz, Y1, EAST

2. West Rep – Years 1, 2, 3 or 4(1 year term) Candidate: Justin Roy, Y1, WESTJeremy Strain, Y3, WESTAmy Lovelace, Y2, WEST

Usama Fraaz, Y1, EAST

Justin Roy, Y1, WEST

Jeremy Strain, Y3, WEST

Amy Lovelace, Y2, WEST

Global Health and Climate Change Advocate1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Years 1, 2,

3 or 4 (1 year term)Candidate:Breezy Beaudry, Y2, WESTHaley Duschesne, Y2, EASTKayla Colledanchise, Y1, WEST

Breezy Beaudry, Y2, WESTGlobal warming isn’t real because I was cold today. Also, good news, world hunger is over because I just ate… Now that I have your attention, my name is Breezy Beaudry and there is no Planet B. I am extremely passionate about the subject of climate change and how it is currently affecting health both locally and globally. This topic can come across as intimidating and even leave you feeling like “where do we even start?”, but that’s where I come in. There are many tangible everyday initiatives that can be done. Have you ever wondered what’s better for the environment: fresh or frozen veggies, reusable or disposable dishware or even maintaining an old car or replacing it? I plan on finding innovative ways for everyone to learn a little bit more and opportunities in each of our communities to put this advocacy to work through volunteerism.

Some ideas for events I have brainstormed for far:· East Vs West Commuter Challenge (Biking, carpooling, walking… any “greener” form of transportation goes)· Having a physician from the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment speak to us about how physicians and students are getting involved· Community clean-up day (on both campuses tentatively on Earth Day in April)· Make your own BeesWax Paper Night and kick the cling wrap out the door· Creating a Green Team on each campus to represent their classes’ and communities specific areas of interest· A talk on how single use plastic band will affect Northern Rural Communities· A talk on Boil Water Advisories in Canada

So if you want to become part of the solution, not the pollution, Vote for Breezy Beaudry.

Student Haley Duschesne, Y2, EAST

Kayla Colledanchise, Y1, WESTHi everyone!

My name is Kayla Colledanchise, and I would like to be your Global Health and Climate Change Advocate this year! A bit about me: I was born and raised in Thunder Bay, ON, and call Northern Ontario my home. I love spending time outside, hiking through trails, kayaking our amazing lakes, and camping in the beautiful forests we have up here. In addition to being passionate about the awesome parts Northern Ontario, I also care about the things that can harm it. I hope that by being a Global Health and Climate Change Advocate, we can work together to keep our environments (and ourselves!) healthy.

We have all heard of climate change and the scary impacts that it is having on our environment, but an equally scary reality is that climate change also impacts our health. This means that, in addition to shrinking the earth’s mighty glaciers, creating more intense storms, and causing droughts and heat waves that alter the way we can grow crops, climate change is beginning to impact the determinants of our health (those things that we like to talk about in class so much!). To put it simply, climate change is hurting people globally. It has increased the distances that scary diseases are able to travel, and it will soon push people out of their homelands and traditional ways of life. We are not safe here either! In Northern Ontario, the more extreme heat, wildfires, droughts, food-shortages, and diseases associated with climate change are beginning to claim people’s lives and health (and the health of our future patients!).

Okay, enough with the scary stuff. My hope is that by learning more about these issues, we can work together to help tackle them. As the Global Health and Climate Change Advocate, I would love to organize advocacy workshops for the students at NOSM for us to explore the impacts of climate change on the health of people in Northern Ontario and globally, and dive into the ground-breaking research that will allow us to determine ways to help. Community-based initiatives will also allow us to spread awareness and initiate change outside of our school. I think we can make a difference if we try.

Thank you for taking the time to read!:)

Kayla

Government Affairs & Advisory Committee (GAAC) Representative 1. Junior Rep ANY campus – Years 1, 2

or 3 (2 year term)Candidate:Justina Marianayagam, Y2, WEST

Justina Marianayagam, Y2, WEST

ICE Committee Student Representative1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Year 3 ONLY(1 year term)

Migueal Proulx, Y3, EAST

Akshay Varghese, Y3, EASTHi Everyone,My name is Akshay Varghese and I am a third-year medical student on the East Campus. During my first and second years, I really enjoyed

Student Candidate: Migueal Proulx, Y3, EASTAkshay Varghese, Y3, EASTMegan Gray, Y3, EAST

my ICE placements and they have definitely benefited me in my first month of CCC in North Bay. I really believe that our early hands-on clinical experience with lots of autonomy really prepares us well to interact with patients during our 3rd year, 4th year core rotations and visiting electives. I was way up north in Attawapiskat First Nation for 106, in Iroquois Falls for 108 and in Blind River during 110. I was fortunate enough to travel to a variety of different places for my ICE experiences. I have enjoyed the team aspect of an ICE placement in a larger group setting, as Iroquois Falls had three other students with me. However, I have also dealt with some of the challenges of ICE placements, as I was alone in Blind River and navigating the hospital independently as a sole learner.

I always found it a little difficult to find the best balance between maximizing clinical/cultural learning in various settings but making sure to stay on top of coursework during the module and taking care of oneself. However, I am hoping to become involved in contributing to strategies to help find this balance for future students on ICE. Whether this be through the implementation of more standardized clinical hours between sites, the improvements of teleconferencing for our group learning sessions and much more. I have talked to many of my classmates already about their thoughts on how to improve ICE placement experiences through their personal experiences, so the recommendations I bring forward will be student focused in nature. I have relevant transferable experience through my work in the Internal Medicine Interest Group, where I serve as the East Campus President. My collaboration and leadership skills with my fellow Executive members in the planning of interest group events will serve me as well as a team player on the ICE committee and working with others. I am looking forward to taking on another challenge in joining the NOSM Student Society. Thank you for your consideration.

Megan Gray, Y3, EASTLocal Exchange Officer (LEO)1. Junior Rep ANY campus – Years 1, 2

or 3 (2 year term)Candidate: Kyle Fediuk, Y2, WEST

Kyle Fediuk, Y2, WESTHello everyone! My name is Kyle Fediuk, 2nd year student at NOSM West. Despite being a Sagittarius, I am running to be your LEO (Local Exchange Officer). My role as LEO will be to assist you in preparing for international medical student exchanges through the International Federation of Medical Students’ Association (IFMSA) and the Canadian Federation of Medical Students (CFMS). Having participated in a one-month exchange in Greece through the IFMSA-CFMS, and a two-month healthcare exchange in Brazil as a paramedic student before medical school, I am prepared to give you the rundown on many of the essentials you will need to know before, during, and after your potential exchange. I plan to do this by sharing with you information on IFMSA-CFMS international electives, breaking down their application process, presenting the various stream options, the social programs in each country, and passing on any helpful tips to make your exchange a positive experience! Along with our Global Health Coordinator, I will be able to assist you with the NOSM International Elective Approval Process as well. As your LEO, my door will always be open to hear your concerns and any suggestions on how we can assist you with exchanges and pass on these ideas during meetings of the Global Health Committee. If you ever need to reach me, feel free to contact me at the email provided below. Thank you for your consideration of me as the LEO. I look forward to the opportunity for us to work together in the future. Yours truly,

Student Kyle Fediukkfediuk@nosm.ca

Local Officer of Global Health Education (LOGHE)1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Years 1, 2,

3 or 4 (1 year term)Candidate: Jenna Kennelly,Y1, EASTKaty Albrecht, Y1, WESTRachel Peet, Y1, WEST

Jenna Kennelly,Y1, EASTHello everyone! I’m Jenna Kennelly, a first-year student on the East Campus, and I’m running to be your Local Officer of Global

Health Education. Global health is something that connects us all, and as future physicians, we have a unique opportunity to explore global health and advocate for the health of not only our own communities but communities around the world. As someone with a passion for health advocacy as well as academics, I’m excited for the opportunity to incorporate global health into our NOSM community through curriculum, as well as extracurricular events. I plan to focus on the big ideas around global health, such as the effects of climate change, and tie them to the North to equip us with ideas and skills that benefit our own communities and beyond. To do so, I will focus on integrating broad elements of Global Health into the curriculum, promoting opportunities to explore health outside of Northern Ontario through exchange programs, and assist with accessible extracurricular events that provide opportunities for learning and advocacy. I feel prepared to take on this role, as throughout my time at Laurentian I was part of the executive committees of clubs including MedLife and Jack.Org, which provided me with experience in organizing events, advocacy, and managing school and extracurriculars. I am excited for the opportunity to be your Local Officer of Global Health this year, and to hear from you about how NOSM can improve their Global Health activities. As NOSM’s website says, “There are many lessons that can be taken from Global Health principles”, and I look forward to exploring these lessons with our NOSM community.

Thank you, Jenna Kennelly First Year Medical Student East Campus

Katy Albrecht, Y1, WEST

Rachel Peet, Y1, WEST

Local Officer of Indigenous Health (LOIH)1. Junior Rep ANY campus – Years 1, 2,

or 3(2 year term)Candidate: Brooke Mathias, Y2, EASTJeremy Strain, Y3, WESTAmy Lovelace, Y2, WESTRylee Mose, Y1, WEST

Brooke Mathias, Y2, EAST

Jeremy Strain, Y3, WEST

Amy Lovelace, Y2, WEST

Rylee Mose, Y1, WESTHey everyone! I’m Rylee and I’m excited to be running for the Local Officer of Indigenous Health Jr. I am a proud member of the

Métis Nation of Ontario and live by its values of honesty, truth, respect, freedom, fairness, and equality. I would like to be elected for the

Student Local Officer of Indigenous Health so that I have the opportunity to continue to represent my heritage and ancestry, and engage NOSM students in learning more about Indigenous culture and health.

Working as a Registered Nurse at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, I have seen some of the barriers and determinants that can impact Indigenous health. Indigenous health is very important to me personally as an Indigenous woman, but to me as a future physician as well. The more knowledge and information we gain, the better physicians we all will become. I would like to facilitate our learning and encourage us to never stop learning and adjusting our practice to meet the needs of our patients and communities.

As the Local Officer of Indigenous Health Jr., I would like to continue to encourage the learning, celebrating and understanding of Indigenous peoples and health. I grew up in a home where our Métis heritage was celebrated, and would love to pass that on to other NOSM students. I am proud to be a NOSM student where learning and appreciating Indigenous health issues is incorporated into the curriculum. As a member of student council I would love to facilitate and arrange additional learning, increase competency and overall understanding of Indigenous culture, and more specifically health.

As future physicians, we all want to be an advocate, a voice, and a comfort for our patients. I believe that as your Local Officer of Indigenous Health Jr. I would be able to assist us all in furthering our learning. We will be able to learn from others and in turn pass on our new knowledge further down the line. I want to continue being an advocate and driver of positive change for Indigenous healthcare in Northern Ontario.

Local Officer of Reproductive and Sexual Health (LORSH)1. NOSM Rep East campus – Years 1, 2,

3 or 4 (1 year term)Candidate:Kim Jovanov, Y4, EASTKayla Simmons, Y1, EAST

2. NOSM Rep West campus – Years 1, 2, 3 or 4 (1 year term)Candidate: Alannah MacLean, Y2, WEST

Kim Jovanov, Y4, EAST

Kayla Simmons, Y1, EASTHey everyone,

Just your average small-town girl happy to be back in Northern Ontario to promote an important field in medicine: reproductive and sexual health. I’m originally from Parry Sound and just finished my nursing degree at Queen’s University in Kingston. So, I’m happy to be starting first year on the East Campus.

I really enjoyed my nursing placements in the hospital in women’s health. My experience provided me with the opportunity to educate mothers pre- and post-birth about risk factors for maternal and newborn health, including the importance of nutrition, early childhood development, and social supports. I also became interested in preventative medicine and sexual health after my rotations in the public health setting where I collaborated with patients to provide vaccines and encourage safe-sex practices.

I think sexual and reproductive health is an area that we, as future healthcare professionals, can work to improve in our communities by enhancing our knowledge base and advocating for resources. I hope to raise awareness of the importance of sexual and reproductive health among the NOSM student body and create opportunities for passionate learners by providing electives and volunteer opportunities in this field.

I’ve got lots of ideas for the Local Officer of Reproductive and Sexual Health position and I can’t wait to hear yours :)

Student Alannah MacLean, Y2, WEST

Program Evaluation Committee (PEC) Representative 1. Phase I Rep ANY campus – Year 1 or

2(1 year term)Candidates:Isabelle Chaput, Y2, EASTTamika Hamlet, Y2, EASTChristina Anthes, Y2, WEST

2. Phase II Rep ANY campus – Year 3(1 year term)Candidate: Jenny Thomas, Y3, EAST

3. Phase III Rep ANY campus – Year 4(1 year term)Candidate: Kayla Edison, Y4, WEST

Isabelle Chaput, Y2, EASTHi everyone, my name is Isabelle and I’m a 2nd year student on the East! Do you like complaining about the curriculum/exams? Me too! I’d love to hear any comments you have about the program and be able to bring them forward to the appropriate people and see if any changes could be made. I am always available to hear any concerns/questions/rants and would love to represent you as Program Evaluation Committee Rep. Thanks!

Tamika Hamlet, Y2, EASTI would like to become the Phase I PEC Representative, because I feel that I have the knowledge, experience and necessary dedication to help optimize our program. I am currently NOSM’s representative for STARS (Students and Trainees Advocating for Resource Stewardship) as well, which is a global initiative aimed at increasing awareness about resource stewardship and optimizing healthcare in Canada. I would like to bring to our Program Evaluation Committee, some of the skills that I have learned through STARS – leadership, foresight, and innovation. I understand the need for continuous improvement in our program, and I believe that by optimizing program evaluation, we can collect data for effectively and ensure all voices are heard – including students and faculty alike. As the PEC Representative, I will take a dynamic approach to program evaluation, since I appreciate the fact that improving a curriculum is a multi-faceted task. Having studied at 2 other post-secondary institutions in the past (McMaster University and CCNM), I am familiar with the process of making curriculum changes, and in ensuring those changes are successful ones. NOSM’s school-wide culture of reflection is something to be recognized and appreciated, since it promotes democracy within the school. I want to be able to refine this culture so that our education can be optimized, and our curriculum can be continuously improved.

Thanks,Tamika

Christina Anthes, Y2, WEST

Jenny Thomas, Y3, EAST

Kayla Edison, Y4, WEST

Recruitment Working Group Representative

1. East Rep – Years 1, 2 or 3 (2 year term)

Emilie Tremblay St-Aubin, Y1, EASTHello, Bonjour,

My name’s Émilie pi j’viens d’Kap!

Student Candidate: Emilie Tremblay St-Aubin, Y1, EASTStephanie Stevens, Y2, WEST

I’m fluent in Frenglish and a true “Northerner” and here is why I believe that I would be a good fit for the recruitment working group representative.

Growing up in a small town up North made me realize how important it is to recruit and retain physicians that want to establish long-term practices in our communities. Too many times I’ve seen physicians come for a few years with the northern recruitment incentive programs and then leave when their contract is over. I strongly value the importance of primary health care in northern communities. With this said, as the recruitment working group representative, I would provide insight into the characteristics of individuals who will help fulfill NOSM’s social accountability mandate, encourage them to stay in Northern Ontario and promote training and education in these communities.

Oh, also, if you ever come to Kap, I will show you where all the good fishing spots are!

Stephanie Stevens, Y2, WEST

Research Committee Representative 1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Years 1, 2,

3 or 4 (1 year term)Candidates:Aurinjoy Gupta, Y1, WESTJustin Roy, Y1, WEST

Aurinjoy Gupta, Y1, WEST

Justin Roy, Y1, WESTI hope that this brief text will convince you of my suitability to represent the NOSM student body on the Research Committee. To begin, I have been actively participating in various forms of research since 2011, ranging from biophysical research to cancer research. Specifically, I have conducted research for both Dr. Andrew Pelling and Dr. Andrew Makrigiannis (currently at Dalhousie) at University of Ottawa in the fields of cellular biophysics and innate immunology, respectively. I then completed a Master’s degree in Chemical Sciences (specifically in small cell lung cancer research) under the guidance of Dr. Leslie Sutherland, a former Associate Professor at NOSM. Most recently, I had been working for Dr. Janet McElhaney at the Health Science North Research Institute in Sudbury prior to my acceptance into NOSM. Lastly, I observed research in the field exercise physiology with Dr. Dominique Gagnon (Laurentian University). These experiences have resulted in the publication of five papers bearing my name, and an additional sixth paper that I recently submitted and is currently under review. Going forward, in addition to being involved in research as the student Research Committee representative I hope to continue performing research both during and after medical school, as research is a vitally important part of my life. Hopefully my past experience is enough to persuade all those voting and reading this of my fitness for this role.

Thanks,Justin

Student Travel Fund Allocation Committee Representative

1. East Rep – Years 1, 2, 3 or 4(1 year term)Candidate: Allan Middleton, Y2, EAST

Allan Middleton, Y2, EAST

Megan Gray, Y3, EAST

Lindsay Ninivirta, Y4, WESTHello/Bonjour!For those of you that don’t know me my name is Lindsay Ninivirta and I am a 4rd Year student on the West campus. I would like you to

Student Megan Gray, Y3, EAST

2. West Rep – Years 1, 2, 3 or 4(1 year term)Candidate:Lindsay Ninivirta, Y4, WESTMadison Burella, Y1, WEST

consider me for a position on the Student Travel Fund Allocation Committee. I held the position of West rep for the last 2 years and would welcome the opportunity to continue to serve you!I am a very organized and dedicated person who is very involved with community volunteer work and have had extensive experience with committee presentation, delivery, budgeting and finance, and believe that I am a good fit for this position. I pride myself on being a fair person that makes well thought out and thorough decisions. Using my experience and knowledge I will ensure that your travel fund money is allocated fairly, properly and equitably. If you have any questions of me please feel free to ask!Lindsay

Madison Burella, Y1, WESTUndergraduate Medical Education Committee (UMEC) and UME Representative

1. Year 1 Rep ANY campus (1 year term)Candidate: Lyndon Letwin, Y1, WESTDana Bartolucci, Y1, EASTVictor Xiao, Y1, WEST

Lyndon Letwin, Y1, WEST

Dana Bartolucci, Y1, EASTHi fellow NOSM classmates!

I am running for First Year Rep of the Undergraduate Medical Education Committee (UMEC) and UME Representative. Essentially, this means I would bring forward any feedback we have on the curriculum. Part of my role would also be to ensure that the UME program embodies the NOSM vision and academic principles.I have been a Teaching Assistant with Laurentian University for the past three years, so I have experience with feedback and curriculum design in an academic setting. I would love to have the opportunity to represent us first years! I will make sure you all are informed on what occurs within this committee and your concerns are well-represented!

Victor Xiao, Y1, WESTWellness Committee Representative

1. Year 1 East Rep (1 year term)Candidate:Lauren McLaren, Y1, EASTLucie Menard, Y1, EAST

2. Year 1 West Rep (1 year term)Candidate: Brooke Moncrief, Y1, WESTSarah Hunt, Y1, WESTAshlyn Kopanski, Y1, WEST

Lauren McLaren, Y1, EASTHello, future doctors! My name is Lauren McLaren and I am a first year student on the East Campus. Northern Ontario born and raised, North Bay is where I spent most of my days! I graduated from Nipissing University with a Bachelor of Science in biology and I am incredibly happy to be continuing my studies in the north at NOSM. I am running for the position of Wellness Committee Representative in the upcoming Fall Election.

There are likely a multitude of reasons as to why we all decided to pursue medicine, but I think it’s safe to say that we all have a desire to help people. The first step in helping others is helping ourselves. I have always been a firm believer that in order to give your best, you first must feel your best. As a representative on the Learner Wellness Committee, I would passionately advocate for and promote the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness of all learners.

During my undergraduate degree at Nipissing University, I worked with the Campus Health Centre, Office of Indigenous Initiatives, and the Office of Student Development and Services to run a health advocacy program. In this leadership role, I provided information and resources surrounding smoking cessation and sexual health and ran events to help university students with nutrition and physical fitness. This opportunity provided me with a lot of valuable experience that would aid in program development and event planning as part of the

Student Learner Wellness Committee.

Over the years, I have established my own healthy habits such as yoga, journaling, and hiking. That being said, I recognize that wellness can be achieved in many ways and these can also change depending on life circumstances. I plan to work with learners at all levels to generate ideas about the types of activities they would like to see, such as meditation workshops, seminars that can be accessed by students off campus, and interactive healthy snack breaks.

As Wellness Committee Representative, I hope to work collaboratively to provide all learners the opportunity to discover healthy behaviours, set a goal for their wellness, and develop skills that they can carry throughout their career. Thank you for your consideration.

Lucie Menard, Y1, EASTFood for thought,Lettuce celebrate wellness!

Brooke Moncrief, Y1, WESTI think as we are starting to settle into our new routines as med students, we need to think about how we are taking care of ourselves mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. One of the most rewarding experiences I have had to date is working as a Healthy Lifestyles Coordinator where I planned group and individual wellness sessions such as various types of fitness classes, outdoor experiences (camping, hiking, canoeing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding), nutritional activities (cooking workshops, nutrition bingo, healthy food boxes), and mental wellness sessions (yoga, reflection, and safe sharing spaces). As we learn to care for others it is important that we don’t forget to care for ourselves. I’d enjoy the opportunity to be a part of the Student Wellness Committee to bring a variety of wellness events and workshops to students throughout the year.

Sarah Hunt, Y1, WESTAs medical students, we learn a lot about promoting optimal health and wellness for our patients, but we seldom discuss how to optimize our own health and wellness as we navigate the stressors of medical school and the medical profession. Our time as medical students is paramount for optimizing our personal health and wellness practices and coping skills that will carry us throughout our career. As a former employee of the NOSM Resident Wellness Office, I have seen the devastating consequences that are faced by residents who did not have their health and wellness needs addressed in their undergraduate medical education. My time in the Resident Wellness Office motivated me to be an advocate for health and wellness at the undergraduate medical education level upon my acceptance to NOSM as a medical student. As such, I am thrilled to be running for the position of 1st Year West Representative of the Wellness Committee. While working for the Resident Wellness Office, I was able to take part in wellness innovations that I hope to promote the adaptation of at the undergraduate medical education level. Some of these innovations included the creation of the NOSM Well App, the formation of the Resident Support Network, the implementation of the Resident Wellness Summit, and resiliency training. I also hope to be an ally to my fellow students by being a resource who is well-versed on the many wellness services offered at NOSM. In addition to promoting and adapting health and wellness services that are already offered through NOSM, I hope to put my education in Health Promotion into action as I assist in the design and implementation of new health and wellness programs that students want to participate in and will finding

Student meaningful and helpful for their health and wellness needs. In summary, I hope that I have convinced you that I am deserving of your vote. I firmly believe that the combination of my passion for health and wellness, my education in Health Promotion and my work experience in the Resident Wellness Office make me an exceptionally suitable candidate for the position of 1st Year West Representative for the Wellness Committee. Thank you for considering me for your vote!

Ashlyn Kopanski, Y1, WEST

Postgraduate Education Committee Representative

1. NOSM Rep ANY campus – Year 1, 2, 3 (2 year term)Candidate:Imran Bagha, Y1, WESTSarah Hunt, Y1, WESTKayla Simmons, Y1, EAST

Imran Bagha, Y1, WEST In addition to my qualifications working with academics (above), I’ve attended 2 postgraduate programs and worked at 2

universities. Therefore I understand the differences between postgraduate and undergraduate education from both student and administrative capacities. This will allow me to be a liaison between you and the school; I will be able to present your concerns and needs in terms the academics understand. Being able to speak to and understand their constraints will better allow me to propose solutions and make asks that will actually be granted.

I’m the president and founder of the sports medicine interest group, which will put me in greater touch with residents. It also means that postgraduate education is always being talked about, so I’ll be up to date on the most recent developments both from a committee and a student perspective.

We all have different interests and will end up in different places. I will be your source of information for postgraduate and residency matters. You can come directly to me if you have specific questions, because I will know who to contact and I’ll put you in touch with someone who can help address your specific concern.

Sarah Hunt, Y1, WESTAs a former employee of NOSM’s Postgraduate Education (PGE) Unit, I have extensive experience in the administration of postgraduate education at NOSM. In this role, I was heavily involved in the day-to-day administrative activities and academic activities of NOSM’s various residency programs, participated in CaRMS interviews and matching, was an integral member of the Resident Wellness Office, and became very familiar with policies and procedures within the PGE Unit. Because of the breadth of my experiences as an employee within the PGE Unit, I believe that I am the candidate who is best suited to represent NOSM’s student body on the Postgraduate Education Committee. After speaking with some of my NOSM student colleagues, I understand that many of you have questions and concerns regarding residency education and CaRMS matching. If elected, I promise to be an ally who can provide you with advice and the most up-to-date information on the landscape of residency education at NOSM and in Canada. I also promise to be your voice on the Postgraduate Education Committee, ensuring that the students’ (and future residents’) perspectives are a consideration in decision-making. In summary, I believe that I deserve your vote to represent the NOSM student body on the Postgraduate Education Committee because of my expert knowledge in postgraduate education at NOSM and because of my ability to be a strong ally, providing meaningful information about postgraduate education to students and ensuring that student perspectives are heard by decision-makers in postgraduate education. Thank you for considering me for your vote for Postgraduate Education Committee Representative!

Student Kayla Simmons, Y1, EASTHey all,

Want to know what postgraduate education at NOSM is like?

Want to have a reliable student representative to answer questions or voice concerns?

Honestly, I do too.

So, here I am, here for you: Kayla, year one from the East Campus.

I’ll be sure to pass along any relevant information to the student body and will address your postgraduate education questions or concerns!

Student