BEHIND THE SCENES Spotlight on Kamila Lear An inspiring balancing act By Meghna Rajaprakash 35 | IMS MAGAZINE FALL <strong>2011</strong> PROSTATE CANCER
BEHIND THE SCENES Most students know Kamila Lear as the friendly Program and Business Officer <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Institute</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Medical</strong> <strong>Science</strong>. But little do they realize that in addition to playing a critical role at the IMS, Lear is a part-time Sociology student at U <strong>of</strong> T, a mother <strong>of</strong> two, a fitness enthusiast, and an avid cook. Lear has a remarkable ability to juggle numerous responsibilities and adapt quickly to dynamic situations, qualities that likely stem from her interesting past. Lear was born in England, but her parents immigrated to Canada when she was very young. She was raised in Pointe-Claire, a municipality located on the West Island <strong>of</strong> Montreal. Although most <strong>of</strong> the residents in her town were English-speaking, Lear’s parents insisted that she learn French – a skill that she began to appreciate more as she matured. “I strongly believe that being raised as a bilingual child provided me with a significant advantage when it came to education, employment, and social situations,” Lear attests. Lear nurtured her interest in French language and culture by enrolling at a French private school called College Saint-Anne de Lachine. She continued her education in French as she pursued post-secondary training in Business Administration. Alongside her studies, she also took interest in learning culinary arts, sign language, life drawing, art history and needlepoint design. Lear’s early talent for balancing many interests and activities was the foundation to her later successful career. Despite her love for Montreal, Lear settled down in <strong>Toronto</strong>, where she has lived for the past 25 years with her husband and two sons. She began working at the <strong>University</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Toronto</strong> as the Student Liaison Officer and Graduate Administrator in the Department <strong>of</strong> Occupational <strong>Science</strong> and Occupational Therapy. During this period, she was granted an Excellence in Service award for her commitment to student services. recruitment, student services, and business administration,” she says. Currently, Lear is involved in many key aspects <strong>of</strong> the IMS department, including strategic planning, preparing complex statistical reports and reviews, advising and implementing departmental policy, assisting in the development <strong>of</strong> new courses and programs, and managing budgets and student issues. Although she carries a heavy workload, Lear enjoys her multifaceted job, particularly because she has an opportunity to work with students. “There are a number <strong>of</strong> things I enjoy about my job. But, first and foremost would be my interaction with IMS students. The IMS seems to attract the best and the brightest students. I believe that building stronger connections with IMS students will help us understand where we need to focus our efforts to improve their graduate experience.” Lear envisions a bright future for the IMS as the department launches new initiatives. She is especially excited about bringing about positive change for students through a new strategic planning process in the upcoming year. “There have been a lot <strong>of</strong> changes at the IMS recently, which makes for an exciting time. We moved to our newly renovated location Insiders Information Favourite food: Seafood pasta Favourite sports team: The Habs, naturellement! Favourite quote: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela Favourite subject in school: Literature on the second floor. It is also a pleasure to have our recently appointed IMS Director, Dr. Allan Kaplan, join our IMS team. Under Dr. Kaplan’s directorship, we will be launching a new and important strategic plan that will give the IMS the integrity to make informed decisions as we move forward.” Besides her work responsibilities, Lear serves in many support roles for students. She is the Departmental Advisor for the IMS Magazine and played a critical role in the initiation and development <strong>of</strong> the magazine. She also prepares content for publication in the “News & Views at a glance” and “Ask the Experts” sections <strong>of</strong> the magazine. Lear is very happy to work with Natalie Venier and the IMS Magazine team towards what she describes as “one <strong>of</strong> the best publications around campus.” Through her dedication to students, her ability to multitask, and her inspiring vision for the future <strong>of</strong> the IMS, Lear truly distinguishes herself as a very valuable member <strong>of</strong> the IMS team. Her passion for the IMS resonates in her advice to students: “Take advantage <strong>of</strong> this wonderful time in your student-life by getting involved in extra-curricular activities through the IMS and IMSSA. These opportunities will allow you to develop important life skills and network with students and faculty.” Most interesting life experience: Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, in Sydney, Australia. At the top <strong>of</strong> the bridge is the most breathtaking view <strong>of</strong> Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. Pet Peeve: Pessimism Who inspires you? My family – they are the reason I strive to do my best in everything I take on in my life. Photos courtesy <strong>of</strong> Kamila Lear Shortly thereafter, Lear took on the role <strong>of</strong> IMS Program and Business Officer, a position that enabled her to capitalize on her skills sets and interests. “I was attracted to the position because it gave me the opportunity to draw on my previous experience in admissions and awards, IMS MAGAZINE FALL <strong>2011</strong> PROSTATE CANCER | 36
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