Award-winning teacher. Champion of the arts. Explorer of mountain trails.
Carol-Ann Courneya, an Associate Professor in the Department of Cellular and Physiological Science and Assistant Dean of Student Affairs (Vancouver-Fraser Medical Program), has served as a mentor to hundreds of students over the course of her career with UBC’s Faculty of Medicine.
A champion of the arts and a passionate teacher, Dr. Courneya believes creativity plays an important role in expanding and strengthening the skillsets of medical practitioners. In 2001, she established Heartfelt Images — an annual art competition for medical and dental students — that continues to attract hundreds of submissions every year. The competition is just one of the many ways Dr. Courneya — who has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to teaching and learning as a UBC 3M National Teaching Fellow — is inspiring medical students to pursue and truly value their creative passions.
Over the past 150 years, what do you think is the most important Canadian discovery, contribution or achievement in health research or education?
The discovery of insulin and achievements in diabetes education.
Looking towards the future, what new health discovery, treatment or innovation will come from Canada?
There are already some very exciting innovations underway here at UBC’s Faculty of Medicine. Cardiologists Dr. John Webb and Dr. David Wood are reshaping the future of aortic valve replacement with a minimally invasive valve replacement procedure called TAVR (transcatheter aortic valve replacement). TAVR was pioneered at St. Paul’s Hospital and is now implemented at Vancouver General Hospital. It requires only a small incision in the leg through which a catheter containing the replacement valve can be fed up and positioned within the heart, helping to avoid open heart surgery and lengthy recovery times.
What is your favourite Canadian pastime?
Exploring every inch of the West Coast mountain trails, while wearing my toque and my red and white Canadian mittens!
Explore recent submissions to Heartfelt Images, and other art collections curated by Dr. Courneya, here.
