[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Wall_of_Distinction.jpg” caption=”Community of Distinction”]People making outstanding achievements that bring fame to the Faculty of Health Sciences and University, will soon find themselves framed and hung.

That is, their portraits will be added to the new Community of Distinction being formed along a wall of the Health Sciences Centre.

The pictorial history will feature pictures and stories of alumni, faculty and staff who have brought distinction and recognition to McMaster University and the Faculty of Health Sciences through outstanding scholarship and innovative research.

The 120-foot gallery will be along the west wall on the second floor, between the School of Nursing offices and the Ewart Angus Centre. To the left will be a three-dimensional graphic of a tree. The individual pictures and biographies of individuals will be set around another three-dimensional graphic of the HSC building and the gallery's sign. To the right will be more individual honours, plus recognition of the Faculty's partners in education and research, Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton and St. Peter's Hospital.

“We're a relatively young Faculty, but we have a clear history of excellence and innovation,” said John Kelton, dean and vice-president of the Faculty. “It's important we recognize the individuals and groups who have put us on the map.”

Nominations are now being collected for the initial fifteen honours to be announced in June 2003. Subsequent years will have a maximum of five individuals selected.

The basic criterion is distinguished contribution in scholarship or conspicuous contribution in the science or delivery of health care or demonstrated outstanding leadership that is recognized by peers. Those eligible include alumni and anyone who is, or has been, faculty or staff of the Faculty.

The selection committee will include the dean, associate deans, presidents of alumni branches and several managers.

The nominator must indicate whether the nomination is for an individual or a team and must attach a supporting narrative of not more than 750 words. A few pictures or graphics illustrating the contribution may be submitted.

Each nomination must be supported by a minimum of two, but not more than four, references. Their support, of a maximum of 150 words, may be sent by e-mail through the nominator or separately. The position and contact information for the nominator and all references is required.

The deadline for nominations is March 28, 2003.

Nominations should be e-mailed to Manager of Development and Alumni Affairs Floyd Mann at mannf@mcmaster.ca. The Faculty's Office of Development and Alumni Relations will manage the Community of Distinction program.

Individuals or groups selected will be notified by the dean and invited to a special reception in their honour.

Photo caption: An illustration of a portion of the Community of Distinction wall designed by artist Rick Zazulak.