Faculty of Medicine Celebrates Convocation 2014

Dressed in billowing robes and draped in colourful hoods, the newest graduates of the Faculty of Medicine took their moment in the spotlight before their family and friends on Tuesday at Convocation Hall. Learners from the Doctor of Medicine, Bachelor of Science (Medical Radiation Sciences) and Bachelor of Science Physician Assistant (BScPA) programs kicked off the University of Toronto’s June Convocation season.

Doctor of Medicine graduates began their day with an award and recognition ceremony hosted by Vice-Dean of Undergraduate Medical Professions Education Jay Rosenfield, who led them in the Hippocratic Oath. The Medical Radiation Sciences program hosted a similar event before the formal convocation ceremony.

“The Faculty of Medicine attracts bold and brilliant thinkers from around the world. I wish the class of 2014 the best of luck in the next stage of their careers. I am confident they will strive to pursue excellence, fulfill their potential and do what can’t be done,” said Dean Catharine Whiteside.

“Studying medicine ignited my passion for improving the health of Canadians. My teachers, mentors and fellow students have inspired me to help those who need health care the most,” said MD grad Jesse Kancir, 2013-2014 President of the Canadian Federation of Medical Students.  He will be pursuing a Master’s in public policy as a Chevening Scholar at Cambridge University.

Students from the Physician Assistant Program had more than just graduation to celebrate.

The 16 newly minted Physician Assistants all had job offers prior to completing the program in December, and have been working as PAs for the last five months. The program — a collaboration between the Faculty of Medicine, Northern Ontario School of Medicine and The Michener Institute for Applied Health Sciences — includes clinical placements in Northern and Southern Ontario. Over 40 per cent of Physician Assistants from the last three classes are working in Northern and rural areas.

“We are extremely proud of all our students. We have an exceptional group of graduates who are dedicated to delivering outstanding care,” said Maureen Gottesman, BScPA Medical Director.

Students from other Faculty of Medicine departments will be conferring their degrees during the June convocation season, which is from June 3 to June 20.

Meet some of our new graduates:

• Jesse Kancir
• Vicky Nguyen
• Jordan Silverman
• Jane Thornton