Two of McMaster’s leading teachers and researchers have been recognized by the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences

Eileen Hutton, Assistant Dean of Midwifery at McMaster, and Professor of Kinesiology Stuart Phillips, who holds the Canada Research Chair in Skeletal Muscle Health, have been inducted as Fellows of the Academy of Health Sciences, considered a high honour in the field.

They were among 52 new fellows honoured at a Sept. 14 ceremony in Ottawa.

Hutton becomes the first midwife to be named a fellow of the academy.

In addition to her role as assistant dean, Hutton is a professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Health Research, Evidence and Impact at McMaster.

“Being nominated by McMaster University to the CAHS is a great honour,” she said.

“Midwifery is a relatively new and small profession in Canada, but our research has made significant contributions to the well-being of women and infants. To be included in this prestigious organization is another important step forward for the profession and provides an opportunity to be included in important national discussions on health of Canadians.”

Philips is also director of McMaster’s Physical Activity Centre of Excellence and the McMaster Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Health Research.

“The CAHS is a prestigious organization with a broad membership of people at the highest levels of health science. I feel honored and highly privileged to be inducted as a fellow of the academy,” Phillips said.

“This fellowship is a reflection not just of my own achievement, but also reflects the achievements of a number of students and research fellows, as well as a terrific group of colleagues at McMaster.”

Phillips noted that Stephanie Atkinson, who sparked his initial interest in nutritional science, was instrumental in his being named a fellow of the academy.