Naomi Steenhof

HPER Graduate

MHPE, PhD

My supervisors Dr. Woods and Dr. Mylopoulos were major drivers in my choice to study at IHPME. They are world-class scholars, and the chance to continue studying under their supervision was an opportunity that I could not pass up.

Naomi Steenhof is the first PhD graduate of the Health Professionals Education Research (HPER) program at IHPME. HPER is a unique offering that explores professional learning and knowledge generation in the healthcare professions. 

Steenhof was drawn to the opportunity within HPER to critically analyze the elements that influence learning and gain access to mentorship that offered mutually-rewarding experiences for both career and personal growth. 

“My supervisors Dr. Woods and Dr. Mylopoulos were major drivers in my choice to study at IHPME,” says Steenhof. “They are world-class scholars, and the chance to continue studying under their supervision was an opportunity that I could not pass up.”

Making connections with expert faculty and the well-rounded mix of theory and methodological courses deepened Steenhof’s understanding of how professional learning and knowledge generation are affected in healthcare and educational practices. Steenhof also appreciated the flexibility within the program to take relevant elective courses outside of IHPME. 

“I took a test theory course through Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, and a social psychology class through the Department of Psychology on self-control and motivation that complimented my research in ways I could not have envisioned when I started the program,” says Steenhof. 

Steenhof also credits the program’s ability to foster connections within a supportive environment. 

“I have benefited from a small program where I could learn more about my fellow PhD students’ research,” says Steenhof. “I have had the privilege of journeying alongside them as we went through the process together.” 

Currently, Naomi Steenhof is an Assistant Professor at Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto and a Pharmacist at the University Health Network. 

Steenhof shares the program further developed practical skills that has improved their teaching, education research, and academic pursuits. 

“The director and faculty who teach in the program are highly supportive and it is an optimal place to grow and learn – not only as a researcher and educator, but as a person,” says Steenhof.

Read More Stories

Image of Dr. Alan Gob

Alan Gob

Dr. Alan Gob discusses his experience in the QIPS program and how it prepared him for his current work.

Read More

Duminda Wijeysundera

Duminda Wijeysundera shares how CEHCR was the necessary springboard to an exciting and fulfilling career in academic healthcare.

Read More

Michael Hillmer

Michael Hillmer shares three highlights that stood out as a learner: the supervision, training environment, and becoming a leading expert.

Read More
Harindra Wijeysundera

Harindra Wijeysundera

Harindra Wijeysundera shares how CEHCR prepares researchers through a collaborative environment.

Read More

Kayleigh Gordon

Kayleigh Gordon joined HSR for the strong interprofessional education and opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of research methodologies.

Read More
Image of Dr. Fahima Dossa, recipient of the Governor General’s Gold Medal

Fahima Dossa

Fahima Dossa encourages CEHCR PhD students to dive in, and dive in deeply.

Read More

Emerald Liang

Emerald Liang shares how MHI provides a deeper understanding of the impact technology can have in healthcare.

Read More

Christine McGovern

Christine McGovern shares how the MHSc program fosters a collaborative environment, creating meaningful and lifelong connections.

Read More