Winner of the School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit AND Academic Medal of the Governor General of Canada - Gold Medal (Graduate) Ogochukwu Onyeso

Ogochukwu Onyeso (PhD '25) sees winning these medals as a representation of academic excellence and resilience and also as a testament to the inclusive and supportive environment fostered by the University of Lethbridge through its genuine commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Meet Ogochukwu Onyeso| Medals won: School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit AND Academic Medal of the Governor General of Canada - Gold Medal (Graduate)
Program: PhD Population Studies in Health | Major: Population Studies in Health

What does this academic recognition mean to you?

Winning the Gold Medal of the Governor General of Canada is profoundly meaningful to me. It represents not only academic excellence but also the resilience that has defined my journey. As an international student from Nigeria, this recognition affirms the transformative power of hard work and the pursuit of knowledge across borders. It also stands as a testament to the inclusive and supportive academic environment fostered by the University of Lethbridge through its genuine commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. This award underscores the potential of Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour to excel and lead in STEMM when provided with enabling environments. I am both humbled and inspired by this honour.

What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience?

Each day at the University of Lethbridge provided a unique combination of learning, discovery, and social interaction. From the picturesque landscape, characterized by soft rolling green hills and coulees extending to the banks of the Oldman River, to the friendly individuals I encountered daily within the University's halls, I am deeply appreciative of the time spent here. Notably, one event organized by the International Centre - a picnic at Waterton Lakes National Park - stands out in my memory. The hike to the mountaintops, the tranquil lakes, the fascinating waterfalls, and the remarkable sight of wildlife in their natural habitat left a lasting impression. That particular day remains etched in my memory as a moment of joy, belonging, and appreciation for the beauty found in both nature and community.

What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?

I realized that academic success often results from collaboration, support, and a conducive learning environment. My journey has demonstrated the power of perseverance and the significance of community in overcoming both academic and personal challenges. I have also come to value interdisciplinary thinking, critical inquiry, and humility in scholarship. Coming from a different academic culture, I have recognized the importance of liberal education and its role in enabling students to excel and make meaningful contributions to their fields.

Is there someone specific who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?

I am sincerely grateful to my academic supervisor, Dr. Olu Awosoga, who discovered, enrolled, and inspired me in my pursuit of expertise in advanced statistical modelling. I extend my appreciation to the other members of my thesis supervisory committee - Dr. Jon Doan, Dr. Adesola Odole, and Dr. Janice Victor, who were meticulously selected from diverse research methodological paradigms to guide my journey as a mixed-methods researcher. Additionally, I would like to thank professors under whose labs and classes I held research and teaching assistant positions, particularly Dr. Richard Larouche. I acknowledge Dr. Lars Hallstrom for the learning opportunity at the Prentice Institute for Global Population and Economy, and recognize Dr. Amélie Quesnel-Vallée and her team for selecting me for the Consortium on Analytics for Data-Driven Decision-Making (CAnD3) Fellowship. My gratitude goes to the non-academic staff for creating a supportive administrative environment that alleviated the challenges of student life. Special thanks are due to my colleagues at Statistics Canada, Prairie Regional Research Data Centre, especially Dr. Charlie Victorino, the regional manager, for their camaraderie and collaboration. Lastly, I deeply value the friendships and shared experiences with fellow students, especially my lab mates, Henrietha, Suha and Chiedozie, whose mutual support and encouragement made the journey more meaningful.

What are your plans for the future?

Looking ahead, I hope to work in an environment that fosters continuous learning and interdisciplinary collaboration - one that allows me to contribute meaningfully as an academic, researcher, and clinician. I am particularly passionate about generating evidence that informs policy and practice in the area of population health, with a focus on aging and health equity. My goal is to bridge research and real-world application, ensuring that my work supports decision-making processes that improve health outcomes at both national and global levels.

What advice would you give to those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?

Embrace your program with an open mind and a commitment to improve yourself. The University of Lethbridge offers a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, but it’s up to you to make the best of the opportunities available. Find mentors, engage deeply with your coursework and research, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Social connections are essential for your mental health and well-being. Most importantly, trust your voice and remain resilient in the face of challenges; your contributions matter.