Third annual Rising Star in Medicine gala raises $1 million to support top talent

On May 9th, the 3rd annual Rising Star in Medicine Gala took place at Montreal’s Ritz-Carlton and raised an incredible $1 million in support of the Rising Star Program—a collaboration between the MUHC Foundation and the MUHC’s Department of Medicine, led by Physician-in-Chief Dr. Marc Rodger.

The Rising Star Program provides outstanding early-career physician-scientists with the support they need to build successful research careers. It offers funding, mentorship, and training from some of Montreal’s most respected physician-scientists. The program helps the MUHC recruit and retain top medical talent and supports its mission of delivering world-class care to patients across Quebec.

The gala was an unforgettable night that brought together health care professionals, generous donors, and MUHC Foundation supporters to celebrate the Department of Medicine’s dedicated residents and physicians. It was also a proud moment for the MUHC Foundation, as President and CEO Marie-Hélène Laramée received the Physician-in-Chief Award. The award recognizes outstanding contributions as well as exemplary and distinguished service to the Department. The award was given out by the Physician-in-Chief, the MUHC's Dr. Marc Rodger.

This rare and special recognition for a Foundation leader highlights the unwavering dedication and spirit of the entire MUHC Foundation team.

“I’m truly honoured to receive this recognition. The award reflects the incredible work we do together—at the Foundation, at the MUHC, and across our community of donors who believe in advancing health care. I share this with my entire team, whose dedication inspires me every day. Thank you for allowing us to be part of something so meaningful,” says Marie-Hélène Laramée.

The evening featured a special raffle for an unforgettable hockey and luxury experience, generously donated by the gala’s presenting sponsor, Heritage MD.

The MUHC Foundation was proud to celebrate the incredible achievements of the following awardees:

Rising Star Award

Dr. Nermin Diab

Recognizing outstanding early-career physician-scientists or medical education scholars for their emerging contributions to research and innovation within the Department of Medicine.

Phil Hill Physicianship Award

Dr. Michael Stein

Recognizing exceptional interest and skill in the teaching of clinical medicine within the Department of Medicine.

Clinician Impact Award

Dr. Ahsan Alam

Recognizing a clinician who has made a medical or societal impact through publication, guideline development, work with policy makers or knowledge translation.

Physician-in-Chief Award

Marie-Hélène Laramée

Recognizing outstanding service and contributions to the Department of Medicine.

Douglas G. Kinnear Award

Dr. Joyce Pickering

Recognizing an MUHC Department of Medicine physician for their exceptional interest and skill of teaching clinical medicine.

Louis G. Johnson Award

Dr. Gary Wang

Recognizing a 3rd year internal medicine resident at the Royal Victoria Hospital for their exceptional interest and skill of teaching clinical medicine.

Luc Bilodeau Award

Dr. Hashem Alhashmialamir

Recognizing a 3rd year internal medicine resident at the Royal Victoria Hospital for their humanism and balancing medicine with life outside of medicine.

Sylvia Cruess Award

Dr. Jia Li Liu

Recognizing a 3rd year internal medicine resident at the Royal Victoria Hospital for their professionalism and clinical excellence.

Margaret Becklake Award

Dr. Kate Haichin

Recognizing a 3rd year internal medicine resident at the Royal Victoria Hospital for their academic excellence.