By Nadine Alsaghir

Founding School of Medicine dean Dr. Teresa Chan stepped down from her role on Oct. 13 after more than three years leading the school, according to an Oct. 19 announcement on Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) website.

Dr. Chan joined TMU in July 2023 to “establish the university’s inaugural School of Medicine from the ground up,” the announcement reads.

She was a “fierce advocate and champion” and offered a new approach to medical education in Ontario, it continued.

The announcement also recognized Dr. Chan’s service as the university’s vice-president of medical affairs, overseeing the school’s academic, strategic and operational development.

In a LinkedIn post, Chan wrote that her family has been navigating “some significant health challenges” over the past few months. She said this prompted her to devote more time and energy to her husband who has supported her throughout her journey.

“This was not an easy decision. I love this school, its people, and its mission. But I also believe that leadership means recognizing when our priorities need to shift, and having the courage to act accordingly,” she wrote.

The Eyeopener reached out to Dr. Chan for comment, who said she was unable for an interview.

Dr. Chan was central in shaping the school’s approach to admissions, which focused on equity, diversity and inclusion.

As previously reported by The Eye, Dr. Chan said the school developed admissions processes that reflected community and societal needs, including efforts to admit students from underrepresented groups including those who identify as Indigenous, Black or other equity-deserving groups.

When the school’s admissions faced criticism in the media, Dr. Chan penned an opinion piece in the Toronto Star defending them, arguing that “schools of medicine need to do a better job at selecting prospective doctors if we are going to meet the health care needs of the public.”

In her LinkedIn post, Dr. Chan wrote though she is proud of what they have accomplished at TMU, she particularly values the people who helped establish it. She mentioned colleagues, learners, clinical faculty, staff, community partners and supporters who “took a chance on a bold vision and worked tirelessly to bring it to life.”

Although she is stepping down as dean, Dr. Chan will remain with the university part-time as clinical faculty, according to the announcement.

“I look forward to continuing as a clinical faculty member and researcher, contributing to the scholarship, teaching, mentorship and innovation that have always been at the heart of my professional identity,” Dr. Chan wrote.

In a statement on TMU’s website, President and Vice-Chancellor Mohamed Lachemi praised her contributions.

“We are very proud of the School of Medicine and everything Dr. Chan has achieved during her time here … she leaves behind a lasting legacy of extraordinary achievements,” he stated.