Georgian College and Brightshores Health System announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), expressing a shared commitment to advancing healthcare, education, and research in our communities.

“We are thrilled to have formalized this Memorandum of Understanding with Georgian College, our closest academic partner,” expresses Sean Conroy, Executive VP, Strategy & Development, Brightshores Health System. “This collaboration reflects our shared dedication to the health and well-being of our community members.”

Georgian College supports student success through meaningful opportunities within the classroom and in the community to help graduates prepare for fulfilling careers for many in-demand disciplines.  With a commitment to excellence and community engagement, Georgian continues to develop relationships with industry and community partners to benefit students and support the needs of these partners.

“Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Georgian continues to build a reputation of quality expertise and resources throughout the region,” says Dr. Mira Ray, Executive Director, Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Georgian College. “As one of Canada’s Top 50 research colleges, a designation from Re$earch Infosource, we continue to build strong relationships with our partners, and we’re pleased to work with Brightshores Health System. The timing is significant now that Georgian is offering the Bachelor of Science – Nursing (BScN) degree at our Owen Sound Campus and this partnership will create opportunities for our nursing students to engage in meaningful educational experiences, which includes hands-on training and applied research.”

Georgian launched a four-year nursing degree program in September 2023. “With a longstanding tradition of supporting Georgian College nursing placements, we’re excited to extend this partnership to include opportunities for BScN students to undertake capstone projects involving research at our hospital,” says Dr. Rebecca Brookham, Director, Office of Research & Innovation, Brightshores Health System.

“This collaboration is a great opportunity for both organizations to deepen our impact on local and rural care through joint research and innovation efforts,” adds Brookham. “By combining our strengths, we aim to address healthcare challenges unique to our community and contribute to advancements in the field.”

Media contacts:

Jenni Thompson, Media Relations Officer, Georgian College

mediarelations@georgiancollege.ca

Sarah Cunningham, Manager of Communications and Public Relations, Brightshores Health System

sacunningham@brightshores.ca