DeGroote, Hamilton hospitals and University establish academic award in honour of John Kelton

Philanthropist Michael G. DeGroote, Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton and McMaster University have announced a $3M endowed award in tribute to research excellence of the Faculty of Health Sciences’ vice-president and dean.

The Dr. John G. Kelton Academic Award was revealed at the Hamilton Health Sciences annual fundraising research gala held Saturday at the Convention Centre.

John Kelton, who is also the dean of the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, was the guest-of-honour, and was praised for his ongoing work as a practicing hematologist and internationally-renowned researcher as well as an academic.

His specialty is in platelet and bleeding disorders with a particular focus on bleeding disorders of pregnant women and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. He is among the top cited researchers at McMaster University and he has won many national and international awards for his discoveries.

As an administrator, Kelton was credited with McMaster’s ranking as first in Canada and 14^th in the world for its health care programs, and its long-standing position as one of the top three universities in Canada for research.

In making the presentation, Hamilton Health Sciences President & CEO Murray Martin said that “few individuals ever make an impact on their community that will last for generations. Dr. John G. Kelton, dean and vice-president of the Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University, is one such individual whose lasting impact has been and will be felt around the world.

“This award will serve as a lasting tribute to the remarkable contributions of this dedicated and gifted man.”

DeGroote, who contributed $2-million as the lead donor of the award, congratulated Kelton by prepared video, saying: “This is a well-deserved and lasting tribute to your inspiring and dedicated leadership. Thank you for our efforts and determination.”

Kelton said he came to McMaster in 1977, drawn by the University’s leading edge development of health-care, including evidence-based medicine. He shared credit for the tribute with his family, friends, and the faculty and staff of the Faculty of Health Sciences.

“This is quite an honour, as there’s nothing better than being able to help improve the health of others. I appreciate everyone who has been involved with me.”

Young researchers were also honoured at the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation gala which annually raises funds to support early career health research at the hospital.

Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne and local MPP Ted McMeekin joined the guests to recognize Kelton and to show their support for Hamilton Health Sciences’ research program which has been internationally recognized as number one in Canada and number seven in the world for impact.

In her remarks, Wynne said: “My colleagues in the Ontario government and I recognize the vital importance of fostering a strong culture of research and innovation in our province. That is why we are proud of the work which Hamilton Health Sciences is doing in order to enhance patient care, find better treatments and transform lives.”

A video tribute to Dr. John Kelton may be found at http://hamiltonhealth.ca/gala2013#TributeVideo , in addition to the message from Michael G. DeGroote announcing his donation for the award.