Awards & Recognition
The Department of Family Medicine is proud to recognize the achievements of our faculty members and administrative support staff. These awards are granted annually to nominees who have earned distinction in their work at the department.
Residents are recognized in a variety of ways, including at Unit resident graduations, and at the annual Research, Inquiry and Opinion (RIO) Day in June.
Residents are recognized in a variety of ways, including at Unit resident graduations, and at the annual Research, Inquiry and Opinion (RIO) Day in June.
Award Winners
Dr. Todd Gauthier
Dr. Todd Gauthier has been a Lecturer and preceptor since joining our department in 2014 and works as a clinician at the Pembroke Family Medicine Teaching Unit. He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to medical education throughout his career, consistently welcoming learners into his clinical practice. Renowned for his open-door policy, generosity, and approachable demeanor, Dr. Gauthier fosters a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Whether leading injection clinics, boosting team morale, or extending personal hospitality to colleagues, he exemplifies the spirit of collegiality and dedication. His contributions go well beyond clinical care, making him a valued mentor and an exceptional clinician and member of the medical community.
Dr. Shirin Lal
Dr. Shirin Lal is an Assistant Professor in our department and a dedicated family physician based in Manotick, Ontrio. Since 2010, she has served as a primary preceptor for family medicine residents, offering mentorship and hands-on learning in a supportive community setting. Her clinical interests include preventive medicine, chronic disease management, women’s health, and minor procedures. Dr. Lal is widely regarded as a role model in community family medicine – valued for her clinical excellence, deep commitment to the discipline, and the lasting impact she has had on her learners, many of whom now practice comprehensive family medicine in the region.
Dr. Leah Smith
Dr. Leah Smith, an Assistant Professor and academic family physician with the Ottawa Hospital Academic Family Health Team at the Civic Campus, has been a valued member of our department since 2018. She is deeply committed to patient care and medical education, with a focus on long-term care, curriculum development, and advancing educational excellence. Widely praised by learners, Dr. Smith is known for her supportive teaching style, constructive feedback, and dedication to both education and learner wellbeing—qualities that make her an outstanding clinical preceptor and role model. Her ability to foster confidence and independence in trainees leaves a lasting impact.
Educational Leadership and Teaching Award
Dr. Adam Jones-Delcorde
Dr. Adam Jones-Delcorde is a Lecturer and attending physician at Winchester District Memorial Hospital (WDMH) since 2018. As Winchester Site Director, he brings a strong focus on rural healthcare, emergency medicine, medical education, and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). He is currently leading a groundbreaking initiative, the “Nightmares” program, to improve acute care training for family medicine residents, preparing them for high-pressure scenarios like shock, respiratory distress, and arrhythmias. Through simulation-based learning, he helps residents build confidence and competence in urgent care. Recently, Dr. Jones-Delcorde received the PARO Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award, nominated by residents, recognizing his exceptional patient care, bedside teaching, and commitment to residents’ growth and well-being.
Dr. Grace Warmels
Dr. Grace Warmels is an Assistant Professor with the Department of Medicine and holds a cross-appointment with our department. She is a palliative care physician and researcher, serving as the Palliative Care Program Director supporting our PGY3 Enhanced Skills Program. She is passionate about increasing access to palliative care and is committed to excellence in education and leadership in this area. She has been consistently recognized for her exceptional teaching and as a bedside educator, earning praise for her academic half-day sessions on palliative care. She is currently leading the update of the formal palliative care curriculum for Family Medicine residents during their palliative block, ensuring that the training provided is relevant, impactful and (importantly) fun!
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Award Winner
Dr. Alex Petiquan
Dr. Alex Petiquan, PGY3 Resident, Public Health & Preventive Medicine, is a dedicated leader in Indigenous mentorship and advocacy within the Faculty of Medicine. As the Vice Dean’s appointed Lead on Indigenous Mentorship, he has championed initiatives that support Indigenous learners at all stages of their academic journey. He founded a mentorship group in 2019 and later established the Indigenous Medical Learners Association (IMLA), fostering a strong support network for Indigenous students in medicine. Through curriculum advocacy, strategic partnerships, and inclusive programming, Dr. Petiquan is transforming medical education to be more equitable and empowering for Indigenous communities. His leadership in building key partnerships with uO’s Indigenous Resource Centre, the Faculty of Medicine, and the Department of Family Medicine has been instrumental in developing initiatives that create pathways for Indigenous learners to become future leaders.
Mentorship Award Winners
Dr. Doug Archibald
Dr. Doug Archibald is an Associate Professor and Director of Research and Innovation, who joined our department in 2013. Through his leadership of the PRIME research funding program, he has supported 2–4 faculty annually since 2010 with funding and mentorship, resulting in impactful research and strengthened departmental capacity. He has expanded research networks by establishing Family Medicine Research Grand Rounds and chairing the Research Executive Committee. His guidance spans all levels of education, from undergraduate to postgraduate learners and faculty, to overseeing the Family Medicine Resident Scholarly Project and enhancing research curricula. With cross-appointments in education and medical innovation, he fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, supervises doctoral students, teaches in DIME’s Health Education Scholars Program, and mentors early-career researchers globally through the North American Primary Care Research Group.
Dr. Bill Hogg
Dr. Bill Hogg is a Full Professor and Acting Chair of our department where he has served since 1992. He is also an Eminent Scientist and Senior Research Advisor within the department. His research program focuses on improving the delivery of primary care services, providing evidence to guide healthcare reform. His work includes developing innovative methods for performance measurement in community clinics, such as automating the collection of patient experience data. Dr. Hogg’s research focuses on performance measurement, innovative care models, and the use of digital tools and AI to improve primary care. He recently served on the Board of Directors of the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) and chaired its Section of Researchers.
Dr. Sharon Johnston
Dr. Sharon Johnston is an Associate Professor with our department, a family physician, and the Scientific Director, and Associate Vice President of Research at the Institut de Savoir Montfort (ISM). She has been with our department since 2012. Over the past 17 years, her work has focused on integrating research into clinical care, with particular emphasis on performance measurement, digital patient outreach and engagement, and concussion care. She collaborates with primary care teams across the country and learns something new from them each week – with gratitude.
Outstanding Faculty Award Winners
Dr. Justine Callahan
Dr. Justine Callahan, Assistant Professor and our Riverside Unit Director, has been with our department since 2019. As Unit Director and a practicing clinician at the Riverside Family Health Team, she is dedicated to fostering a culture of collaboration, open communication, and continuous improvement, and supports the creation of specialized clinics that enhance patient care and provider satisfaction. In particular, this past year, alongside her Civic colleagues, she has been instrumental in the launching of a Gender Affirming Care Clinic. The clinic provides essential hormonal therapy and surgical consultations to both patients and the wider community. Residents rotate through the clinic biweekly, gaining hands-on experience and building core competencies in inclusive care.
Dr. Sohil Rangwala
Dr. Sohil Rangwala, Assistant Professor and Postgraduate Program Director, has been with our dept since 2011. He is committed to advancing a nationally leading, innovative Family Medicine residency program. His priorities include expanding Family Medicine training time, enhancing flexibility through integrated and expanded Enhanced Skills programs, and establishing a first-of-its-kind Office of Resident Affairs to support wellness, mentorship, and career development. He is also dedicated to embedding a strong social accountability lens across all initiatives, including creating training opportunities for BIPOC learners and ensuring equity and transparency in the residency selection process.
Scholarly Achievement Award Winners
Dr. Kheira Jolin-Dahel
Dr. Kheira Jolin-Dahel is an Assistant Professor who joined our department in 2018 and is a practicing family physician and Preceptor at our Winchester site. She is also the Director of Quality Improvement and the Director of the Family Medicine Resident Scholarly Project (FMRSP) for which she provides guidance and support to residents on their scholarly projects. Dr. Jolin has a research program that focuses on rural primary care and obstetrical care as well as innovations in medical education. Her research interests include women's health, rural obstetrics, primary care and quality improvement. In creating innovative learning resources for residents, Dr. Jolin-Dahel has been at the forefront of the digital transformation in medical education as the department continues to adapt its curriculum to the evolving needs of its learners.
Dr. Kamila Premji
Dr. Kamila Premji is an Assistant Professor in our department and holds the Junior Clinical Research Chair in Family Medicine. She has been with our department since 2020. She is a dedicated family physician and academic based in Ottawa. She provides comprehensive, community-based primary care to a diverse patient population through Central Ottawa Family Medicine Associates. An active researcher, she collaborates on numerous projects related to access to primary care within the Department of Family Medicine, including the Health Access and Innovation Lab and the Institut du Savoir Montfort, through which she has been awarded funding to lead work examining access and family physician workload in collaboration with the Canadian Primary Care Information Network (CPIN).
Undergraduate Educator of the Year Award
Dr. Robin Kennie
Dr. Robin Kennie is aLecturer, Preceptor and our Community Post-Graduate Unit Program Director, who provides comprehensive primary care in the community at the Perth Family Health Team. He joined our department in 2016. Dr. Kennie is committed to multilevel learning and has profoundly enriched the experience of all levels of learners. His innovative teaching approach fosters collaboration between medical students and residents, creating a dynamic learning environment where mentorship and knowledge-sharing thrive. Under his leadership, postgraduate learners develop strong teaching skills, contributing to a culture of professional growth. Widely praised by learners for his impact and support, Dr. Kennie continues to elevate the standards of Family Medicine education through his leadership, mentorship and dedication.
Dr. Lina Shoppoff
Dr. Lina Shoppoff is an Assistant Professor and the Undergraduate Medical Education Director for our department. Since joining the department in 2015, Dr. Shoppoff has been a driving force in medical education through her leadership, mentorship and innovation. She cultivates an inclusive learning environment and leads initiatives like the Family Medicine Bootcamp, which introduces first-year students to the field while addressing barriers within the hidden curriculum. Her work has influenced similar programs at other institutions. With over 500 hours of teaching and a strong focus on Francophone health, she continues to shape the future of family medicine. Additionally, her advocacy to expand entry pathways into Family Medicine, such as the direct entry program, is fundamental to the success of our program.
Staff Award Winners
Rebecca Celestin – Staff Service Excellence Award Winner
Rebecca Celestin is recognized for her outstanding leadership in faculty development. Her meticulous planning and warm, professional approach have ensured the success of faculty retreats, orientations, and ongoing initiatives. Rebecca’s responsiveness, problem-solving skills, and dedication to creating a supportive environment have made a lasting impact on faculty engagement and professional development. Her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to service continue to elevate the experience of faculty members across the department.
Xi Chen – Staff Service Excellence Award Winner
Xi Chen exemplifies service excellence through his leadership, professionalism, and collaborative spirit. His work organizing Academic Day has set a new standard for efficiency and engagement, while his proactive mindset continually improves departmental processes. Xi’s attention to detail, inclusive approach, and commitment to supporting colleagues and learners alike have made a profound impact. He is a trusted team member whose contributions elevate the entire department.
Karen Hopkins – Staff Service Excellence Award Winner
Karen Hopkins, Postgraduate Coordinator at the Primrose Family Medicine Centre, is a cornerstone of support for residents and staff alike. Known for her responsiveness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication, Karen consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the success of her team. Her collaborative spirit, adaptability, and tireless advocacy for learners make her an invaluable member of the department. Karen’s exemplary service and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on everyone she works with.
Ryan Morrison – Staff Behind the Scenes Award Winner
Ryan Morrison’s behind-the-scenes contributions have been transformative for the department’s multimedia and technology systems. From eLearning modules to podcasts and video tutorials, his technical expertise and collaborative approach ensure seamless operations. Ryan’s calm demeanor, proactive problem-solving, and dedication to service excellence support faculty, learners, and staff every day. His work enhances the department’s educational mission and is deeply valued by all.
Roslyn Ahrens – Staff Innovator Award Winner
Roslyn Ahrens is celebrated for her visionary leadership in communications and media. Through strategic thinking and creativity, she has led major initiatives including a community-based website, the Department’s 50th-anniversary timeline, and the 2024 Annual Report. Her work has elevated engagement and showcased the department’s achievements with clarity and impact. Roslyn’s innovative approach and dedication to excellence continue to drive the department’s mission forward through collaborative, strategic, and inspiring communication.
Awards
We encourage you to nominate your colleagues and help us recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our members.
Nomination Deadline
Nominations for 2025 are now closed. Thank you to all who submitted nominations. Visit again next year to participate in our 2026 awards season and nominate outstanding candidates!
Nomination and Submission Process
Candidates can be nominated by a Department of Family Medicine faculty member, learner, or staff member, and brought forward to the Departmental Advisory Committee (DAC). The Departmental Advisory Committee (DAC) is composed of the Chair of the Department of Family Medicine, Unit and Program Directors from each of the teaching sites, and other senior leaders from the Department of Family Medicine. The DAC will review nominations and determine the award recipients based on the selection criteria. If no candidates are submitted, the Chair or members of the DAC can nominate.
Submit nominations via our new Faculty Nomination Form and Staff Nomination Form (up to 500 words). Include a description of the candidate’s contributions in the domains outlined in the selection criteria, below.
Email supporting documentation and questions to Roslyn Ahrens: [email protected]
Eligibility
All Faculty with a full-time or part-time Faculty position in the Department of Family Medicine, as well as research and administrative staff are eligible. An award can be granted at any point in a career. Nominations can be made for the same individual across different award categories.
The faculty and staff award winners will be announced and presented with their awards at RIO Day.
Faculty Awards
Please review the award categories below.
Staff Awards
All Department of Family Medicine staff are eligible to be nominated for a staff award, regardless of their job level and category (grant-paid and university staff).
All DFM members (faculty, learners and administrative staff) are eligible to nominate staff members for these awards.
The Administrative Management Team (AMT) will act as the selection committee and decisional body to review all nominations and select the recipients for each award.
Award Criteria: The nomination must detail why the staff member should win the award and include supporting examples of how they meet the criteria stated in the award description (min. 250 words, max. 500 words).
Deadline: Email the nomination to [email protected] no later than 11:59 pm on April 1, 2025.
Note that we adhere to the principles of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) when considering staff nominations.