ARTSSociety

Dr. Amanda Roze des Ordons is a Clinical Associate Professor and physician in critical care medicine, palliative medicine and anesthesiology at the University of Calgary, with a masters degree in medical education. Amanda academic interests are related to learner and physician wellness, communication challenges, and patient and family centered care. Her dedication to these critical aspects of healthcare not only enriches the dialogue but also contributes practical insights into the human dimensions of death in medical practice. As a respected clinician, educator, and advocate for patient-centered care, Dr. Amanda Lee Roze Des Ordons brings a holistic perspective that will undoubtedly enhance the depth and breadth of our discussions during the workshop. Her presence on the panel ensures a comprehensive exploration of the art of navigating death in the intricate tapestry of research and medicine.

Dr. Caleb Lee, an Adjunct Assistant Teaching Professor in philosophy at the University of Calgary, will add a thought-provoking dimension to our workshop with an insightful 5-10 minute talk on “The Fear of Death.” Having earned his Ph.D. at the University of Calgary in 2015, Dr. Lee received the Student Union’s Teaching Excellence award in 2017, underscoring his dedication to academic excellence. His diverse teaching portfolio includes courses in Biomedical Ethics, Philosophy of Religion, and Sex, Love, and Death. Dr. Lee’s innovative contributions extend to the development of new courses on the Philosophy of Play and the Philosophy of Human Beauty, showcasing his commitment to exploring profound philosophical questions in engaging and relevant ways. As Dr. Lee shares his perspectives on the fear of death, attendees can anticipate a captivating blend of philosophical depth and pedagogical excellence. His presence on the panel promises to stimulate contemplation and enrich the dialogue in our workshop on “Life in Death: The Art of Exploring Death in Research & Medicine.”

Dr. Heather Huston teaches printmaking as an Associate Professor of Print Media at the Alberta University of the Arts. She uses her own chronic illness experiences to reflect on the complexities of patient experience and identity. She has had several solo exhibitions within Canada and internationally including Dream City, Dreams in Belgrade, and Shift at SNAP Gallery in Edmonton. She has exhibited widely in international group exhibitions that recently include The Okanagan Print Triennial 2018, Print/Pressure Field (Turkey), and the 2021 Print Club of Rochester International. She has presented on her work at conferences in both the arts and medicine, including recently at The Art of Medicine Rounds at the University of Alabama (2022) and at the Mid America Print Conference at Kent University (2022).With an impressive international exhibition record and contributions to conferences blending arts and medicine, Heather’s presentation promises to add a vibrant and thought-provoking dimension to our exploration of “Life in Death: The Art of Exploring Death in Research & Medicine.”

Dr. Lian Willet is a faculty member in the Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy at the University of Alberta. Lian earned her Ph.D. in Experimental Medicine. During her postdoctorate at the University of Alberta, she then explored cancer metastasis, utilizing live cancer imaging to identify biomarkers with diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential. Dr. Willet is an active member of the Falling Walls lab community and a dedicated faculty member, who continues to shape medical education by teaching clinically-oriented anatomy. Her wealth of expertise promises to elevate discussions in our workshop on “Life in Death: The Art of Exploring Death in Research & Medicine.”