Meet the 2024 Naylor Fellows: Champions for a Fairer Tomorrow!
Katie O’Shea is on a mission to revolutionize public health for those with complex care needs, while Jared Crane, an aspiring dentist, is committed to minimizing patient exposure to radiation. Together, they shine as the remarkable recipients of the 2024 C. David Naylor Fellowships – coveted awards designed to propel extraordinary U of T students connected to Atlantic Canada into their promising futures.
“We’re overjoyed to welcome Katie and Jared into our university community,” exclaims Leah Cowen, U of T’s Vice-President of Research and Innovation. “They join an elite group of scholars dedicated to tackling the pressing challenges of our time, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation for making their journeys possible.”
Igniting Brilliance on the Path to Success
The Naylor Fellowships, established in 2013 with the generous support of the Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation, aim to empower students through transformative education. The foundation’s founders, Sandra and Arthur Irving, were deeply committed to supporting aspiring scholars. Tragically, Arthur passed away in May 2024.
“He was devoted to making the world a brighter place,” reflects David Palmer, Vice-President of Advancement at U of T. “Arthur’s relentless dedication to uplifting Atlantic Canada leaves a legacy that will resonate for generations.”
Arthur L. Irving’s commitment to uplifting Atlantic Canada makes for a truly outstanding legacy and will be felt for generations to come.
These fellowships honor U of T’s President Emeritus, David Naylor, who has long championed research investment.
“Fostering early-career research is critical for launching extraordinary minds toward greatness,” emphasizes Joshua Barker, Vice-Provost, Graduate Research and Education and Dean of the School of Graduate Studies. “Our graduate students are catalysts for change during their time here, leading to impactful careers that enrich our understanding of the world.”
Arthur L. Irving’s commitment to uplifting Atlantic Canada makes for a truly outstanding legacy and will be felt for generations to come.
Introducing the 2024 Naylor Fellows
Katie O’Shea: Championing an Equitable Health Care System
Meet Katie, hailing from Miramichi, New Brunswick – a true agent of change.
Her aim? To enhance the evaluation of health policy. “I want to exchange knowledge and strategies to shape public health decision-making at local, national, and global levels,” shares Katie, who’s currently embarking on her Doctorate of Public Health (DrPH) at U of T’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health.
Katie’s academic journey is impressive: she holds a Bachelor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Leadership and a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of New Brunswick, followed by a Master of Public Health from the University of Victoria. U of T was her clear choice for this next chapter, thanks to its extensive network and unique programs. “U of T is the sole institution in Canada offering a Doctorate of Public Health, and its commitment to developing real-world leaders in health resonates deeply with me,” she enthuses.
“I am passionate about client-centered, trauma-informed care,” says Katie O’Shea.
Her research focuses on social justice and health care as a fundamental human right. “I am deeply committed to client-centered, trauma-informed care,” she asserts. “My ultimate goal is to leverage the skills, knowledge, and networks from this program to drive evidence-based interventions, influence health policy, and tackle public health challenges.”
Juggling a doctorate is no easy task, especially as Katie also manages a service coordination and clinical team within First Nation communities. The Naylor Fellowship has alleviated her burden. “This award allowed me to focus on what matters most: balancing work, school, and life without the financial stress overshadowing my dreams,” she explains. “Given the funding limitations for this emerging program, receiving this scholarship validates that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”
“I am passionate about client-centered, trauma-informed care,” says Katie O’Shea.
Jared Crane: Transforming Dental Care with Innovative Technology
From the beautiful shores of Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Jared is a champion of patient-centered dental care.
His academic journey kicked off with a Bachelor of Science from Memorial University in Newfoundland, leading to a Doctor of Dental Surgery from Dalhousie University in Halifax. Now, he’s diving into a Master of Science in Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology at the Faculty of Dentistry at U of T.
This cutting-edge program centers on the interpretation of 2D and 3D imaging of the head and neck, perfectly aligning Jared’s passion for technology and patient care. “This program empowers me with a comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms and how to accurately diagnose based on imaging features,” he says.
“This scholarship reduces my stress and allows me to focus on my studies and research,” says Jared Crane.
Though he’s just beginning his graduate studies, Jared is already diving into significant research topics. He’s particularly focused on minimizing radiation exposure during dental imaging through innovative rectangular collimation technology, which limits x-rays to necessary areas. “Even though radiation exposure is minimal, it remains a common concern among patients,” Jared notes, aiming for safer, more effective dental practices.
Relocating to Toronto, known for its high cost of living, was made easier thanks to his Naylor Fellowship. “This scholarship alleviates stress and enables me to concentrate more on my studies and research,” he shares. “It has played a crucial role in shaping my educational trajectory.”
For Jared, this chapter is not just about personal progress; it’s about making a profound impact in the dental field. “I aspire to be part of initiatives that benefit as many people as possible,” he asserts.
“This scholarship reduces my stress and allows me to focus on my studies and research,” says Jared Crane.
A Legacy of Impact
Since its initiation in 2013, the Naylor Fellowships have proudly supported 23 exceptional scholars. Katie O’Shea and Jared Crane now join the ranks of esteemed recipients like James Johnson, Nathan Doggett, Shuya Kate Huang, and many others who have made their mark.
Are You Ready to Apply for the 2025 Naylor Fellowships?
Are you a Canadian student currently enrolled at a university in Atlantic Canada? Will you be starting a Master’s or Doctoral degree at U of T in the fall of 2025? Don’t miss your chance to apply through your prospective department in early 2025!
