On Friday, January 31st, 2025, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway CERH) held its Strategic Planning Day at the picturesque Benmiller Inn and Spa. This important event brought together board members, research chairs, research assistants and associates, and staff to collaboratively plan for the future of the organization.
The Strategic Planning Day focused on creating growth, implementing meaningful changes, and identifying strategies to ensure Gateway CERH’s continued success in advancing rural health outcomes. Participants engaged in a series of strategic activities designed to evaluate current initiatives, set priorities, and develop actionable goals for the years ahead.
“This day is an opportunity for our dedicated team to come together and align on a shared vision for Gateway CERH,” says Chair of Board, Dan Stringer, “By working collaboratively, we can ensure our organization continues to meet the evolving needs of rural communities.”
Adding to the momentum of the day, Gateway CERH proudly welcomed its newest Chair of Equity and Access in Rural Palliative Care, Erin Donald, PhD, RN, CHPCN(C) (they/them). Erin is a graduate-educated nurse with a 15-year career in palliative care. Dr. Donald has practiced as a clinical nurse in community and hospice, as an educator at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and as a nurse researcher in palliative care and health systems. Their program of research focuses on access to palliative care and a palliative approach in rural settings and for populations made vulnerable by social inequity. Having relocated to Goderich in 2022, Dr. Donald has joined Gateway with the aim of fostering local partnerships and supporting community-based initiatives focused on improving the quality of life across the disease trajectory for those with life-threatening illnesses.
The takeaways from this event are expected to drive positive changes that will enhance Gateway CERH’s impact on rural health research, education, and community collaboration. From exploring new opportunities for growth to strengthening existing programs, the insights gained will shape the organization’s path forward.
About Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH)
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) was established in 2008 as a not-for-profit organization with charitable status. Governed by a community-based volunteer board of Directors, Gateway CERH is committed to enhancing the health and quality of life for rural residents through research, education, and communication. By fostering collaboration among community health centers, rural health professionals, and academic institutions, Gateway CERH provides a platform for stakeholders to strategize and improve rural health outcomes.
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