Awards – Nomination & Application Form

The Student Excellence Award honors exceptional students who have demonstrated significant progress, academic achievements, and a commitment to the field of sonography during their enrolment in a Canadian accredited diagnostic medical sonography program. This award is designed to recognize students who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to their learning environment and show great potential for future leadership in the sonography profession.

A detailed letter of recommendation from the nominating instructor or faculty member. The letter should highlight specific examples of the student’s achievements, progress, contributions to the program, and potential impact on the sonography field. Program Coordinator(s) should sign off on the nomination.

A brief personal statement from the student (300-500 words), reflecting on their experiences, achievements, and future goals within sonography. Supporting documentation (like assignments, or case studies) may be submitted to support the nomination.

The Rising Star Award celebrates the exceptional achievements and contributions of early-career sonographers who have shown remarkable potential and dedication to the profession. This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves through leadership, ongoing professional development, and active participation within the sonography community. By honoring these rising stars, Sonography Canada aims to inspire the next generation of sonographers to engage deeply in the profession and contribute to its continuous growth and advancement.

Provide a written essay (250 to 750 words) addressing each of the following themes:

• Leadership: Describe how the nominee has demonstrated leadership within the sonography profession.
• Professional Development: Highlight the nominee’s commitment to furthering their knowledge and skills through ongoing education and training.
• Professional Involvement: Detail the nominee’s involvement in professional activities, including any contributions to the advancement of the profession.

The Outstanding Article or Case Study Award celebrates the excellence of written submissions that inform, educate, and inspire peers in the sonography community. This award recognizes outstanding contributions in two distinct categories: Case Study and Article / Literature Review. Each category will honor one sonographer and one student for their exceptional work, highlighting their ability to share knowledge, insights, and advancements in the field of sonography.

Award Categories:

• Outstanding Case Study – Sonographer Award
• Outstanding Case Study – Student Award
• Outstanding Article / Literature Review – Sonographer Award
• Outstanding Article / Literature Review – Student Award

Case Study [Student or Sonographer] – must include:

• Abstract: A structured summary of the case report (250 words or less) summarizing the introduction, case description, discussion, and conclusion.
• Introduction: A brief explanation of the case’s significance, including necessary definitions.
• Case Description: Relevant details such as patient demographics, history, sonographic findings, diagnostic imaging, lab tests, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.
• Discussion: Explanation of the etiology, pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and treatment/prognosis.
• Conclusion: A brief summary of the case report and its relevance to ultrasound practices.

Article / Literature Review [Student or Sonographer] – must include:

• Abstract: A concise summary of the essay or literature review.
• Introduction: Background information and rationale for the chosen topic.
• Description: Organized content supporting the topic, with clear titles and subtitles.
• Discussion: Exploration of etiology, pathophysiology, treatment (if applicable), and the value of the article.
• Conclusion: A brief summary of the article/literature review and its application to ultrasound practices.

The Outstanding Mentorship Award honors current Sonography Canada members who exemplify excellence in professional leadership and mentorship, including their role as preceptors. These individuals act as advisors, experts who freely share their knowledge, and supportive colleagues who offer moral and emotional support. They are the members who inspire others and contribute significantly to the professional growth and development of their peers and students.

This award acknowledges mentors and preceptors who have made a profound impact by motivating their colleagues, advancing their skills, and unlocking their full potential, thereby enhancing the sonography profession.

Provide a written essay (up to 1,000 words) answering the questions listed in the criteria, that demonstrate:

• How the nominee inspires others
• How the nominee has contributed to professional knowledge and expertise in sonography
• How the nominee has supported opportunities for you and for others
• Example of above.

The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes a non-elected volunteer who has demonstrated exceptional commitment, enthusiasm, and impact in their volunteer role at Sonography Canada. This award honors an individual whose dedication, skills, and personal qualities have significantly advanced our mission, fostered a positive environment, and inspired others.

Provide a written essay (up to 1,000 words) outlining why the volunteer deserves this award, and may include qualities and characteristics such as:

• Commitment to Serving: Shows dedication to addressing the organization’s needs with persistence and a problem-solving mindset.
• Consistency: Provides reliable and regular support, contributing to the organization’s success.
• Listening Skills: Actively listens to needs and feedback, collaborating effectively with staff and other volunteers.
• Service Mindset: Approaches tasks with a positive attitude and readiness to serve.
• Flexibility: Adapts to changing needs and circumstances with a positive attitude.

The Lifetime Achievement Award honors a Sonography Canada member who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and a passion for advancing the profession of sonography. This award acknowledges individuals whose significant contributions over the course of their careers have positively impacted the field of sonography in areas such as education, professional service, patient care, advocacy, preceptorship, and/or research. The recipient of this award is a distinguished leader who has inspired others and has left a lasting legacy within the profession.

Must include an essay of 1,000 words or less describing how the nominee meets the award criteria. The essay should cover the following aspects:

• Achievements: A list of the nominee’s outstanding lifetime achievements in areas such as clinical practice, education, research, professional service, or innovation.
• Contributions & Impact: A detailed account of the nominee’s significant contributions to the sonography profession and the impact these contributions have had on a community, provincial, national, or international level.
• Leadership: An explanation of how the nominee has demonstrated exceptional leadership and how their work has inspired others within the sonography profession.
• Supporting documents (optional): Nominators may include news articles, publications, certifications, or other recognitions as evidence of the nominee’s contributions.

The Fellowship Award recognizes the exceptional contributions of an Active member whose efforts have significantly advanced the mission and objectives of Sonography Canada. This award honors members who have demonstrated outstanding dedication, leadership, and service to the organization, leading to tangible improvements in its operations, initiatives, and influence within the healthcare community.

The student bursary provides financial support for up to three (3) students by covering the costs of writing their credentialing exams (first attempt only).

To submit, provide an essay of 750 words or less outlining how Peter McLardie’s values and dedication have influenced the ultrasound profession and how you have demonstrated Peter’s values in the following three (3) categories:

• Community
• Mentorship
• Integrity

Each application must include two (2) letters of reference from a peer, educator or colleague. Applicants are encouraged to read Peter McLardie’s biography in Memoriam and Tribute.

The sonographer bursary provides funds to the recipient for educational pursuits.

Requirements for Submission:

• Submit an essay of 750 words or less describing how Peter McLardie’s professionalism and dedication are reflected in your educational endeavors, how you plan to use the funding and the impact the training will have on your career.
• Applicants are encouraged to read Peter McLardie’s biography in Memoriam and Tribute.