Announcement: Temporary transition for the O'Brien Institute’s leadership

We are pleased to share a leadership update as our director, Dr. Kirsten Fiest, prepares to welcome a new addition to her family. Beginning Dec. 10, 2024, Dr. Fiest will be on parental leave. During this time, Dr. Pamela Roach, our Deputy Director, will serve as acting Scientific Director.

Dr. Fiest has led the Institute as scientific director since Nov. 1, 2023, guiding us with vision and dedication. We are immensely grateful for her leadership and wish her the very best during this exciting chapter.

Dr. Roach, who became deputy director in July 2024, brings extensive experience as an associate professor in the departments of family medicine and community health sciences and as the academic director of Indigenous engagement at the University of Calgary. A proud citizen of the Métis Nation of Alberta, she holds a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Health Systems Safety and has more than 20 years of community-based research experience. Dr. Roach is deeply committed to advancing public health through strategic vision, collaboration, and innovation, making her well-prepared to lead the Institute during this time.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Fiest as she embarks on this new journey and in welcoming Dr. Roach to her acting role. We are confident that under Dr. Roach’s leadership, the Institute will continue to thrive and achieve meaningful impact.