Paula Smellie receives Ludwik and Estelle Jus Memorial Human Rights Prize

For her thoughtful and collaborative approach to creating an inclusive environment for learners, staff and faculty members alike, Paula Smellie has received the Emerging Leader Ludwik and Estelle Jus Memorial Human Rights Prize.

The honour is one of the Awards of Excellence presented by the University of Toronto Alumni Association in collaboration with the university. The prestigious program dates back to 1921 and recognizes outstanding faculty, staff and students.

A business manager in the department of physiology in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine since 2005, Smellie chairs the department of physiology’s equity, diversity and inclusion committee and the equity, diversity and inclusion sub-committee of the Temerty Faculty of Medicine’s group on business affairs.

Examples of her leadership include inviting guest speakers and organizing wellness initiatives at department retreats and co-facilitating training sessions for students, hospital staff and faculty members on how to practise allyship. She also co-chaired the “Excellence through Equity Toolkit” working group, which supports the recruitment, retention and career development of underrepresented groups in graduate studies.

In honouring Smellie, the alumni association notes she is recognized as an outstanding colleague who creates space for all voices to be heard and who leads with enthusiasm, empathy and kindness.