Pair honoured for outstanding teamwork in pathology residency program

Dr. Rani Kanthan, program director, and Deb Quirion, program administrator from the Diagnostic and Clinical Pathology Residency Program, have been honoured for setting a gold standard in professionalism and inclusivity among their residents, and exemplifying the college’s values of respect and collegiality.

Each year, the Faculty and Staff Awards honour members who make a meaningful difference in the college. These awards were celebrated during the Regina Campus Appreciation Night on May 15 and during the Saskatoon Campus Appreciation Event on May 21. 

Kanthan and Quirion were recognized by their nominators for going above and beyond in supporting residents’ professional and personal well-being. The pair’s contributions have improved the residency program experience and helped positively impact the residents. Kanthan and Quirion see their roles of program director and program administrator as a partnership.

“I was appointed as program director in 2021, and from the beginning have established the concept of the program director and program administrator working as a team for the residency program,” said Kanthan, who is an anatomical pathologist and professor in the college.

“However, I have been involved over the past two decades in various roles as needed, such as a member of the Residency Program Committee. I have always been willing and available to teach residents and undergrad students as they explore our department.”

Kanthan is known for creating a culture of respect and mentorship where every resident feels valued. She provides residents with support for exam guidance and letters of recommendation and offers mentorship in both teaching and building research portfolios.

Quirion has been a key member of the program for several years and is the organizational backbone of the residency program. She navigates complex administrative challenges with ease, making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Known for streamlining processes and seeking out operational improvements, Quirion also takes the lead in organizing the annual resident retreat.

“I feel that I have a voice and that my opinions and suggestions matter and make a difference. Dr Kanthan is a strong advocate for our residents and education, with no learner being left behind – which in turn has made me fight for this as well,” said Quirion.

An example of their strong teamwork is when Kanthan became program director and the pair collaborated to develop a standardized five-year curriculum, outlining rotations for each of the five years of residency.

Whether they are meeting with residents for six-months evaluations or working on projects such as accreditation and preparing for the Canadian Residency Matching Service (CaRMS), the partnership between Kanthan and Quirion is built on communication and mutual respect. Through their dedication, they have made a positive impact on the residents, the pathology residency program and the broader medical community.