On Wednesday October 22, 2025, Women College Hospital (WCH) in collaboration with the Gairdner Foundation will host its third Women of Gairdner event. The event welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented communities. The event will consist of speaker presentations and a panel discussion featuring esteemed Gairdner Laureates - world-recognized scientists whose work has significantly advanced our understanding of human health and disease. 

This year, we're privileged to have Dr. Iva Greenwald, Dr. Jennifer Stinson, and Dr. Prativa Baral as our speakers/panelists. Through storytelling and interactive dialogue, the renown women scientists will share insights into their unique career paths, their work, and the challenges they have faced, as well as the need for greater equity and inclusion within the health sciences fields.   

Students, parents, and teachers in previous years have emphasized the positive value this event had in expanding student enthusiasm in STEAM

1. In-Person Format Option -  We encourage this information to be shared with students, particularly those who self-identify with underrepresented communities in the STEAM (sciences, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics) fields including but not limited to students from Black, Indigenous, immigrant, and visible minority communities, who show an interest and academic aptitude in sciences. Parents, teachers, and chaperones will also have the opportunity to attend a session about student opportunities and educational resources.

2. Virtual Format Option – In addition to participating in-person, students, teachers, and organizations can participate by viewing the livestream and engaging in discussion.

Date: Wednesday October 22nd, 2025

Time: 9:00 am – 1:40 pm (Registration opens at 9am; the event begins at 9:30am)

Location: Women’s College Hospital, 76 Grenville St, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Event to be held on the 2nd floor in the Auditorium

Register:  Women of Gairdner - Application/Nomination Form by October 15th for virtual participation.

Any questions can be directed to learninginstitute@wchospital.ca