The Board of Governors of the University recognizes individuals who have contributed to the growth, development, welfare, and well-being of Northwestern Ontario, Simcoe County and of Lakehead University. This is done by the conferring of the title Fellow of the University. You will recognize University Fellows by their familiar blue gown with a white velvet scarf.
Dr. Jaro Kotalik is a physician-bioethicist, chair and founding director (1998) of the Centre for Health Care Ethics at Lakehead University. His experience as a practicing oncologist and CEO of the Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Centre informed his vision to establish a firm grounding in healthcare ethics in Thunder Bay and the region's academic and healthcare institutions. The Centre's continued growth, with its 25 institutional members; its expanding research and education; and two bioethicists serving our area testify to a vision fulfilled.
Dr. Kotalik, who is also a professor at NOSM University, has been influential beyond Northwestern Ontario. He was a member of the Biomedical Ethics Committee of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons and the National Council for Ethics in Human Research. He has been a bioethics consultant to many organizations, including Health Canada and the Swiss National Bioethics Committee. He is a prolific author of scientific papers and a co-editor of the groundbreaking book, "Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada: Key Multidisciplinary Perspectives" (2023); the first comprehensive examination of this program.
Murray Walberg has been an ambassador for Lakehead University for more than 20 years, including his time as a member of the Board of Governors (2010-2018) during which he spent two years as Chair. Murray’s dedication has been pivotal to making Lakehead a strong and vibrant institution—from his most recent efforts shaping the University’s future capital campaign to supporting student scholarships and learning to successfully championing the internationalization of the University.
A 35 year veteran of RBC, he has had the opportunity to dedicate himself in a variety of roles and businesses. He has facilitated a relationship between RBC and Lakehead that includes the creation of the innovative RBC Work Integrated Learning program for students. Murray is committed to helping communities prosper and he’s been active with many Northwestern Ontario organizations and boards including the United Way, the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, Synergy North, the Thunder Bay International Airport Authority, NOSM and the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre.
