Celebrating academic achievement and lifelong learning

Laura Gao, daughter of Kathy Li, Technician III, Patient Services, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, will be attending the University of Toronto. Not only has Laura achieved outstanding scholarly success in an enrichment program at her high school, she volunteers tutoring younger students, and founded and served as president of her school’s Ethics club. Laura’s long-term goal is to build a sustainable non-profit business to benefit women experiencing homelessness.

Hayley Quach has maintained a nearly flawless academic record throughout high school. She is a passionate activist and volunteer, having volunteered at Hennick Bridgepoint during the pandemic. She keenly promoted wellness and mental well-being at her school. Hayley will be studying Life Sciences at York University and plans to attend medical school. Hayley is daughter of Ken Quach who is the administrative clerk in the Mail Room at Hennick Bridgepoint.

The Valerie Fine Bursary supports continuing education toward the promotion of patient care excellence, and is awarded to an individual who demonstrates the value of Humanity in their work. This year’s recipient is Diane Vieira, a registered nurse in the Emergency Department at Mount Sinai Hospital. Diane is enrolled in a Master of Education for Health Professions program at the University of Ottawa. Recognized as a highly knowledgeable and skilled clinician, Diane shares her knowledge and expertise with all levels of learners. She consistently advocates for patients and colleagues, and provides care, concern and understanding, regardless of the circumstance.

The Rose Torno Bursary encourages an interest in research or health-sciences education. The bursary is awarded to an individual who demonstrates potential in their research project or educational pursuit. Mary Galarza Winton, registered nurse at Mount Sinai’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, is this year’s recipient. An experienced preceptor and clinical instructor, she recently completed her Certificate in Nursing Education to expand and enhance her teaching practice. Mary is leveraging the learning of this program to support nursing excellence and positive patient outcomes.

The candidates for the Donald E. Low Bursary were outstanding this year and resulted in a tie! The bursary allows individuals studying or practising in the field of microbiology to travel to the lab at Mount Sinai or another microbiology lab to expand their knowledge. Dr. Ruchika Bagga and Dr. Mohammad Sarhan will both be training at the Centre for Disease Control in British Columbia. Coming full circle, they will train with supervisor Dr. Christopher Lowe who was a former trainee at Mount Sinai. This aligns with Mount Sinai’s former Microbiologist-in-Chief Dr. Low’s vision that knowledge should be shared between labs.

The Bernard Ghert Award recognizes a resident who demonstrates excellence in patient care and teaching, particularly in relationships with patients and families. Dr. Monira Alkandari, PGY2 in Medicine, strives to know patients beyond the illness that brings them to the hospital and advocates for improved health education among diverse communities. A gifted leader, teacher and role model for junior trainees, Monira creates an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and can openly share ideas and concerns.