TMU welcomes first class of resident physicians at historic celebration
On June 27, TMU’s School of Medicine celebrated the launch of its first postgraduate medical education programs, bringing together resident physicians, healthcare partners, and community advocates. The event marked a significant step forward in medical training for Brampton and surrounding communities. Pictured, the incredible School of Medicine PGME team behind launch day, with President Lachemi and Dean Dr. Teresa Chan.
On June 27, 2025, nearly 200 attendees gathered in Brampton to celebrate the launch of TMU School of Medicine’s inaugural postgraduate medical education programs.
The event welcomed TMU’s first class of resident physicians, key partners from community and hospital sites—including William Osler Health System, Trillium Health Partners, Halton Healthcare and Headwaters—as well as representatives from community advocacy organizations, such as Professional Association of Residents of Ontario, Ontario Medical Association and Canadian Medical Association.
Hosted at Lionhead Golf Club & Conference Centre, the event featured remarks from TMU’s President and Vice-Chancellor Mohamed Lachemi, Provost and Vice-President, Academic Dr. Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano and Founding Dean and Vice-President of Medical Affairs Dr. Teresa Chan.
Speakers reflected on the historic nature of the inaugural class of residents, the significance of this achievement for Brampton and surrounding communities and the importance of advocacy and wellness in medical training.
This momentous achievement is the culmination of the School’s ongoing commitment to building strong clinical partnerships, robust learner support systems and a community-driven medical education model that is grounded in compassion, equity and excellence.
To view memorable moments of the event, see photo highlights below. (Photos by Anna Maria Li).
Learners had the opportunity to connect with clinical and community partners that they will be working with during their residencies.
Program Director, Surgical Foundations, Dr. George Oreopoulos engages with learners.
Interim Vice Dean, Community, Culture & Belonging, Dr. Lisa Barnoff and colleagues Dr. Pamela Liao, disability health lead (left) and Dr. Ashifa Jiwa, associate dean, equity & social accountability (right) speak to learners about the School of Medicine’s commitment to community, culture and belonging.
Dr. Teresa Chan, dean of the School of Medicine and vice-president, medical affairs at TMU, addresses the crowd.
TMU President and Vice-Chancellor Mohamed Lachemi welcomes attendees.
PGME learners had the chance to connect with representatives from the Ontario Medical Association (pictured here) and other important advocacy organizations.
PGME learners with Dr. Brent Thoma, former interim associate dean of postgraduate medical education (front row, left), Dr. Jobin Varughese, interim assistant dean, primary care education (back left, in hat) and Dean Dr. Teresa Chan.
PGME learners participated in interactive group sessions as part of the day's events, engaging in collaborative discussions designed to build connections and prepare them for their upcoming residency experiences.
A group of PGME learners share a moment together during the historic launch celebration, representing the diverse and talented inaugural class that will help shape the future of health care in Brampton and surrounding communities.