Welcome Leslie Walker as Executive Director
- Sage Milne
- May 20
- 1 min read
Updated: May 26
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Leslie Walker as Executive Director.
Originally from Goderich, Ontario, Dr. Walker holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce and Psychology Degree from McMaster University and a Master of International Business Degree from Queen’s University.
Dr. Walker earned her Doctorate in Social and Economic Sciences from the Vienna University of Technology in Austria, in partnership with the United Nations and Rotary International. Her research explored the ethical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in low-resource environments, with a strong focus on healthcare—a vital concern for rural populations. She has been a passionate advocate for innovation at Gateway CERH, contributing her expertise in AI and its transformative potential for rural communities.
Dr. Walker is passionate about leveraging technology, research, and collaboration to empower rural communities and looks forward to bringing her expertise and vision to Gateway’s projects and partnerships.
Among her notable contributions is her leadership in the planning and implementation of the GREAT Local Food Project, a key initiative promoting sustainable food systems in rural Ontario.
Dr. Walker has also shared her insights through Gateway CERH’s Rural Health Lecture Series, including:
Season 4, Episode 7: "Artificial Intelligence, Rural Health and... Inequality?"
Season 3, Episode 6: "The Societal Implications of Artificial Intelligence"
We are excited to welcome Dr. Walker into this leadership role and look forward to her continued impact on rural health innovation.
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