Dr. Peter Rosenbaum, Dr. Peter B. Dent Memorial Research Impact Fund

Dr. Peter Rosenbaum, a researcher and professor of pediatrics, has been an instrumental figure in child health research, particularly in the realm of childhood disability, for over four decades.

As the co-founder of CanChild, he has led teams of researchers locally, nationally, and internationally, through the creation of unique programs and products to enhance the wellbeing of children and families. Throughout his career, he has maintained a steadfast commitment to child- and family-centered care and was an early champion of engaging families as partners in health research.

Dr. Rosenbaum is renowned for his deep commitment to mentoring learners and junior colleagues, significantly influencing their research training and career trajectories. His lifelong dedication to advocating for children, youth, and families aligns with Dr. Dent’s lifelong mission.

Dr. Elaine Choi, Dr. Peter B. Dent Resident Scholarship Award

Dr. Elaine Choi, PGY5 resident in the McMaster Pediatric Neurology Resident Program, is a role model to our learners. She is conscientious of others’ time and efforts and promotes wellness and work-life balance for all her colleagues. 

She is an advocate who always listens, sees both sides of every story, approaches every situation with kindness, and will work tirelessly to achieve solutions to any problem. She shines in the pediatric neurology program as a superb, well-rounded clinician and colleague.

Dr. Choi regularly celebrates her junior residents for accomplishments big and small. In her leadership qualities and excellence in both the academic and clinical spheres, she embodies many of aspects of Dr. Dent’s legacy.

Dr. Andrés Felipe Fajardo, Dr. Peter B. Dent Resident Scholarship Award

Dr. Andrés Felipe Fajardo, PGY4 Core Peds resident at McMaster University, has held multiple leadership roles, both within and outside the Pediatric Training Program.

In PGY1, he was the representative to our Resident Program Committee, as well as the Social Committee. He also organized the iCAN partnership – a group that he helped establish in medical school to support low-income high school students in Hamilton interested in a career in healthcare.

Nationally, he was a leader for residents with the Canadian Pediatric Society (CPS), initially as the Vice President and later as President of the Resident’s Section. He has provided a voice for residents on the CPS Board and has organized many events, including the CPS Conference Resident Section Sessions, and multiple national advocacy efforts.

Dr. Fajardo is an unwavering leader, researcher, philomath, and clinician. He is a one-of-a-kind resident, who lives his day-to-day life with a great sense of purpose and is always dedicated to providing the best care he can. He goes above and beyond to support his patients and their families – so many of the virtues that Dr. Dent would be proud to see continue.

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

Dr. Michelle Batthish, a pediatric rheumatologist at McMaster Children’s Hospital 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.

Mentored by Dr. Dent, she embraced a similar path, taking on the role of head of the Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology. She credits the McMaster Rheumatology Transition Clinic, conceptualized by Dr. Dent and Dr. Maggie Larche, as the primary inspiration for the development of her research program. 

Dr. Batthish is recognized nationally for her expertise, advocacy, and leadership in her field. She continues to share Dr. Dent’s lifelong dedication to advocacy for children, youth, and families and honours his memory in her actions, words, and leadership.

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

Dr. Orianna Mak, PGY4 resident in the McMaster Core Pediatrics Resident Program, has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills, commitment, and leadership. Her contributions have not only enhanced our residency program but have also enriched our hospital community and, most importantly, the lives of our patients. At McMaster, she has been a tireless advocate and a valued collaborator, always seeking to elevate the experiences of learners and colleagues alike.  

In 2020, in response to pandemic-related closures, Dr. 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.

Dr. Mak’s work exemplifies the highest ideals of our profession, combining compassion, innovation, and an unrelenting commitment to serving the most vulnerable, embodying so many aspects of Dr. Dent’s legacy.

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

Dr. Christine Wang, is a clinical fellow in the Pediatric Palliative Care training program at McMaster University, who has had a profound impact and focuses on those who are most vulnerable in our community.

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.

Dr. Wang’s dedication reminds reflects Dr. Peter Dent’s legacy—one of advocacy, compassion, and community engagement. She understands that care goes beyond treatment and must reach the heart of our communities to uplift and heal.