A message from Roger Wong, Vice Dean, Education.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Hannah Carolan as Associate Dean, Admissions, MD Undergraduate Program (MDUP), for a five-year term effective to July 31, 2030.
Dr. Carolan is a clinical associate professor in the Department of Surgery, and a practising radiation oncologist. She brings a wealth of experience to this position, most recently serving as Assistant Dean, Student Affairs, Vancouver Fraser Medical Program, MDUP, where she led a range of initiatives supporting student wellbeing, academic advising, career planning, financial aid and cultural supports and resources.
A strong advocate for inclusive and supportive learning environments, Dr. Carolan prioritizes student wellness throughout medical education. Over the past four years, she has helped students align their diverse strengths with career aspirations, while supporting them in managing the complexities of medical education and the residency match process. Her deep and solid understanding of student experiences will enrich her leadership in MD Admissions.
In her role as Associate Dean, MD Admissions, Dr. Carolan will provide strategic leadership for the MDUP Admissions portfolio across all regional sites. In addition to overseeing recruitment, admissions, and enrollment strategies, she will work to enhance outreach efforts, while ensuring a seamless application process to help attract and retain a diverse and accomplished student body. Working in close collaboration with departments across the Faculty, Dr. Carolan will further align admissions goals with the MDUP’s mission and strategic priorities.
Dr. Carolan’s appointment follows the dedicated leadership of Dr. Shahin Shirzad, who has served as Assistant Dean, MD Admissions for the last eight years. During his tenure, Dr. Shirzad led transformative changes to the admissions process. He demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fostering diversity and improving accessibility through a variety of admissions initiatives, including the launch of the Black Student MD Pathway and UBC Medicine Outreach Ambassador and Mentorship Program. These efforts have helped ensure that UBC welcomes medical students who truly reflect and are prepared to serve the diverse communities of British Columbia. We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Shirzad for his exemplary service, and are deeply grateful for his vision, integrity and enduring contributions to the Faculty of Medicine and UBC.
Please join me in congratulating Dr. Carolan on her appointment.
