Healthcare Excellence Canada (HEC) is pleased to welcome new leadership to its Board of Directors with the election of a new Chair, Vice-Chair and Director.
Experienced leaders step into Chair and Vice-Chair roles
Gail Tomblin Murphy, Chair
Gail Tomblin Murphy has been appointed Chair of the Board of Directors. An internationally recognized expert in population needs-based approaches to health system strengthening, workforce planning, evaluation, capacity-building and healthcare innovations, she brings extensive experience in advancing equity and innovation in healthcare across Canada.
“I am deeply honoured to take on the role of Chair of HEC’s Board of Directors at such a pivotal moment for healthcare in Canada,” says Gail Tomblin Murphy. “Having worked across communities, health systems, industry partners, and policy tables in Canada and globally, I have seen first-hand both the challenges and the extraordinary opportunities we face. With rising demand for timely access to care, workforce pressures, and the health of Canadians so closely tied to our country’s strength and resilience, there is a renewed urgency and a shared determination to reimagine what safer, more equitable, and more innovative care can look like. By working alongside my fellow Directors, HEC’s talented staff, and our many partners, I believe we can harness this momentum to drive lasting change.”
Feisal Keshavjee, Vice-Chair
Feisal Keshavjee has been appointed Vice-Chair of the Board. An accomplished healthcare leader, he has worked in all facets of the healthcare system – policy, public, private, corporate and early stage – bringing broad expertise to HEC’s governance.
“It’s a privilege to serve as Vice-Chair, as we see new ideas and innovations taking root across the country,” says Feisal Keshavjee. “I look forward to helping HEC accelerate and amplify this progress, working with partners to turn promising approaches into lasting improvements that strengthen a safer, more responsive health system.”
New Director brings a focus on equity and innovation
Alika Lafontaine, Director
Named Maclean’s Top Healthcare Innovator of 2023 and the first Indigenous physician on The Medical Post’s 50 Most Powerful Doctors, Dr. Alika Lafontaine made history in 2022 as the first Indigenous and youngest doctor to serve as President of the Canadian Medical Association in its 154-year history.
A mixed Indigenous Anesthesiologist (Métis, Oji-Cree, Pacific Islander), Dr. Lafontaine trained in medicine and anesthesiology at the University of Saskatchewan before relocating to northern Alberta, where he has practiced for most of his clinical career.
“Throughout my career, I’ve seen both the obstacles and the opportunities in making healthcare safer, more equitable and more people-centred,” says Alika Lafontaine. “By listening to communities and working in partnership, we can turn those opportunities into lasting change. I look forward to bringing those experiences to HEC’s work, collaborating with partners to move care forward together.”
Recognizing the contributions of outgoing Directors
The Board extends its gratitude to three outgoing Directors for their service:
- Blair O’Neill, who served as Chair of the Board.
- Jo-Anne Cecchetto, who joined the Board in its early years and provided thoughtful contributions to HEC’s governance.
- Ian Rongve, who brought valuable expertise and perspectives to the organization’s strategic direction.
“On behalf of HEC, I want to sincerely thank Blair, Jo-Anne and Ian for their remarkable leadership and commitment,” says Gail Tomblin Murphy. “Their insights and dedication have strengthened HEC’s governance and helped lay the foundation for even greater impact on healthcare in Canada."
A diverse and dedicated Board shaping a safer, more equitable healthcare system
HEC’s volunteer Board of Directors is a diverse group of leaders, all passionate about improving healthcare with – and for – everyone in Canada.
“Together, we can foster a culture of care that reflects the voices and needs of people and communities across the country, ensuring that healthcare not only meets today’s demands but is sustainable, inclusive, and forward-looking for generations to come,” says Gail Tomblin Murphy.
For more information, contact Katrina King, Director, Communications & Marketing Healthcare Excellence Canada, katrina.king@hec-esc.ca.
