MHSc Graduate Wins Robert Wood Johnson Award

July 11, 2017

Share Post

The 2017 Robert Wood Johnson award winner from the University of Toronto, is recent MHSc graduate Craig Thompson, who was presented with the award at a reception hosted by the Canadian College of Health Leaders (CCHL) on June 12 in Vancouver, Canada.

Craig Johnson on left, with other winners of Robert Wood Johnson Award, flags in background
Craig Thompson left with recipients of Robert Wood Johnson Award. Photo Credit: Dan Harper Photography

The Robert Wood Johnson awards were established in 1956 by Johnson & Johnson Medical Inc. and are presented annually to six deserving students at Canadian universities who are pursuing a Masters in Health Administration.

Each student who receives the award is anticipated to make a valuable contribution to the health services industry, and Craig is already taking significant steps and is well on his way to becoming an influential leader in health systems management.

Thompson followed an unconventional path into the health services industry having originally graduated with a degree in civil engineering. After practicing engineering for 10 years, Thompson shifted his focus and career to new media and digital communications at the time when the World Wide Web and the Internet was making its debut.  Thompson’s diverse work in the private sector as a digital strategist and his volunteer efforts as a patient advocate positioned him well to take on the role of Director of Digital Communications at Women’s College Hospital in 2012. For over five years he led a team of communications specialists in the development and implementation of integrated digital communications initiatives. In 2015, Thompson made another significant career decision to pursue the MHSc degree with the Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the University of Toronto. “I knew I needed to better understand the business of healthcare in Ontario if I was going to be successful at bringing about system change for the benefit of patients and families,” said Thompson.

Throughout the program, Thompson maintained his interest in patient advocacy, so when it came time to find a placement as part of his practicum, he was eager to work at Patient Ombudsman, a brand new organization that works as a champion for fairness in Ontario’s healthcare system. The Patient Ombudsman’s office was opened to the public in 2016, as a place for patients and caregivers to voice their concerns and complaints regarding the quality of care and their experiences at a hospital, long-term care home or with home care services. Having worked for start-ups in the past, Thompson was immediately attracted to the idea of developing strategies to help bring the patient voice to the forefront of shaping policy and improving healthcare experiences for all Ontarians. “When I arrived to begin my practicum, I was encouraged to apply my skills and experience in digital communications and strategic planning,” said Thompson. “I was also able to help with the launch of a new, more patient-centered website which included an easy-to-use online complaint form.”

Profile image of Craig Thompson
Photo Credit: Dan Harper Photography

Patient Ombudsman, with its focus on influencing positive change in Ontario’s healthcare system, was exactly the place in which Thompson felt his passion and experience could flourish and where he felt he could also help make a difference for patients and families. With his experience, determination, and commitment to help find workable ways to tackle system-wide issues, it makes sense that Thompson, who graduated in June, ultimately won the opportunity to become the organization’s new Executive Director. “It is a dream come true,” said Thompson of his new role, “it’s a privilege to be recognized for my leadership skills and diverse experiences, including my ability to reinforce the patient perspective in the everyday operations of the office. I’m also looking forward to helping advance the organization’s position as a supportive bridge between patients, caregivers, and the health sector organizations under the office’s jurisdiction.”

Being adaptable and open to working as a change agent is exactly why Thompson is a deserving winner of the Robert Wood Johnson award. He is keen to be a part of the transformation underway to help improve the lives of patients and caregivers. “It is truly an honour,” said Thompson, “to be recognized in this way by the Institute’s distinguished faculty.”

Related News

A collage of ten headshots of people, the 2025-26 vanier scholars, arranged in a grid pattern, set against a background of colorful blocks including blue, orange, purple, green, yellow, and navy. The individuals wear a mix of casual, business, and traditional attire, with backgrounds featuring cityscapes and indoor settings.

Record Number of IHPME Doctoral Students Named 2025-26 Vanier Scholars

July 17, 2025

Students

Read More
A grayscale image of a person with long hair, wearing a light-colored blouse and a patterned skirt. The background is blue-toned and appears to be an outdoor urban setting with buildings and signs, partially blurred. There are colorful geometric shapes in the corners of the image: purple and cyan in the top left, yellow and green in the bottom right.

From Evidence to Impact: IHPME-led Research Shines Light on Benefits of Safer Opioid Supply

July 10, 2025

Faculty / Research

Read More
The research team that have received funding to study brain aging and dementia prevention. Dr. Husam Abdel-Qadir, Principal Investigator Kuan Liu, Dr. Geoffrey M. Anderson, and Renzo Jose Carlos Calderon Anyosa.

IHPME Researchers Receive CIHR Grant to Advance Dementia Prevention

July 2, 2025

Faculty / Research

Read More
Clara Ho delivering a speech on equity-driven healthcare leadership at the 2025 CCHL National Conference, standing at a podium with a projected image behind her.

Impact From Within: Clara Ho’s Journey from MHSc to Systemic Change

June 24, 2025

Awards / Students

Read More
A man in a black suit jacket and light-colored shirt stands in front of a blurred building background. The image has colored bars in the corners: blue and purple in the top left, and orange and green in the bottom right.

IHPME Faculty Presented With Insulin Banting Award for Redefining Diabetes Care

June 20, 2025

Faculty / Research

Read More

IHPME Students Recognized as 2025-26 CGS Doctoral Scholars

June 19, 2025

Research / Students

Read More

Sign up for IHPME Connect.

Keep up to date with IHPME’s News & Research, Events & Program, Recognition, e-newsletter.

Subscribe to Connect Newsletter

Get in Contact


Communications

Marielle Boutin
Email Address: ihpme.communications@​utoronto.ca

Manages all IHPME-wide communications and marketing initiatives, including events and announcements.