Honouring a legacy: Third annual Dr. Peter B. Dent Memorial Lecture celebrates advances in pediatric innovation

On Thursday, September 19, 2024, the Department of Pediatrics hosted the third annual Dr. Peter B. Dent Memorial Lecture, bringing together over 100 faculty, hospital leaders, staff, learners, and friends to honour Dent’s enduring legacy in pediatric care. Participants gathered both in person and online to reflect on his impactful contributions and continue his mission of advancing child health.

A pioneer in pediatric rheumatology and immunology, Dent is remembered for his exceptional clinical care and research as well as his instrumental role in founding McMaster Children’s Hospital (MCH), and the adjacent Ronald McDonald House.

“The advancements he drove have profoundly enhanced our ability to care for children and their families and has enriched our capacity to serve our region and beyond,” said Angelo Mikrogianakis, Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Chief of MCH.

Guest speaker Dr. Ori Scott shares insights on precision medicine and immunity 

Mikrogianakis introduced the event’s keynote speaker, Ori Scott, who presented her topic, “STAT1 gain-of-function: Precision medicine insights into human immunity,” to the hybrid audience. 

Scott is a transition clinician scientist in the Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy at The Hospital for Sick Children, whose interests include disorders of immune dysregulation involving infections, autoimmunity, hyperinflammation, atopy and malignancy. 

Watch Dr. Scott’s lecture presentation here.

Following the lecture, attendees gathered for a reception to celebrate the recipients of the Dent Memorial Research Impact Fund and the Dent Memorial Resident Scholarships.  

Michelle Batthish, Dr. Peter B. Dent Memorial Research Impact Fund

Dr. Michelle Batthish, a pediatric rheumatologist at MCH and associate professor in Pediatrics, leads a research program that actively collaborates with patients and families. Together, they identify youth needs, develop tools to assess transition readiness, and create strategies to support and empower youth with chronic illness as they move from pediatric to adult care.

“Dr. Dent had such an impact on my career as an academic pediatric rheumatologist. He taught me the value of collaboration in all aspects of my work, in the clinical setting as well as in research.  The successes I have had in my research program can be attributed to the great qualities and insightful skills he imparted to me during our time together. It is a true honour to receive this award,” says Batthish.

Orianna Mak, Dr. Peter B. Dent Memorial Resident Scholarship

Dr. Orianna Mak is a fourth-year Core Pediatrics resident and is described as a tireless advocate and compassionate doctor. In 2020, in response to pandemic-related closures, Mak worked closely with community members to establish ‘The Hub’—a drop-in centre for at-risk youth in Hamilton. The Hub became a lifeline for many, providing food, hygiene supplies, harm reduction resources, and a safe space for social connection during an incredibly isolating time.

“Though I never had the chance to meet him, everything I have read about Dr. Dent speaks to his incredible kindness, moral compass, and desire to help others. Above all, these are qualities I too hope to embody, not just through advocacy, but also in the way that I carry myself through my day-to-day interactions,” says Mak.

Christine Wang, Dr. Peter B. Dent Memorial Resident Scholarship

Wang is a clinical fellow in the Pediatric Palliative Care training program. She is committed to supporting women and youth, using creative mediums to raise awareness about the impacts of domestic violence and has been a powerful advocate for underrepresented youth in healthcare.