Your Q3-2025 – Membership Update
July 29, 2025
Celebrating Our 2025 Sonography Canada Award Winners
Each year, Sonography Canada is proud to honour the remarkable individuals who embody the excellence, innovation, and compassion that define our profession. At this year’s Annual General Meeting and Education Day, we were thrilled to celebrate the recipients of the 2025 Sonography Canada Awards. These individuals have gone above and beyond in their studies, clinical work, leadership, research, and volunteerism—and we’re excited to share their stories with you.
Peter McLardie Memorial Education Bursaries
Established to honour the legacy of Peter McLardie, these bursaries support ongoing education and certification in sonography.
- Student Bursary Winner: Bleona Sahiti (Dalhousie University)
A dedicated student leader and advocate for equity and inclusion, Bleona has mentored peers and built connections with Indigenous and African Nova Scotian communities. Her commitment to excellence and kindness embodies the spirit of this award.
- Sonographer Bursary Winner: Alizain Zulfiqar, CRCS
A passionate cardiac sonographer and founder of Echologists, Alizain is advancing sonography education through accessible, collaborative learning and continues to grow as a clinician and educator.
Volunteer of the Year Award
Cathy Ridsdale, CRGS, CRVS
As Chair of the Awards Committee and contributor to several key initiatives—including the CJMS editorial committee and the Leadership Development Institute bursary—Cathy’s insight and dedication are invaluable. Her tireless volunteerism truly keeps the profession moving forward.
Outstanding Journal Submission Award
Karen Letourneau, CRGS; Brent Carson; Amandeep Dusanj, CRGS; and Lindsay Deeble
For their article “Three Sonographic Findings to Look for in Fibromatosis Colli”, published in CJMS. This case-based submission introduces three practical diagnostic signs for a rare but significant pediatric condition, offering valuable insight for clinical practice.
Student Excellence Award
Becky Foster (Dalhousie University)
With a near-perfect GPA, her CRGS credential, and an advanced vascular specialization underway, Becky is also a compassionate mentor, Student Advisor to the Board, and a researcher. A true rising star in the profession.
Outstanding Article or Case Study Awards
New for 2025: Recognizing more authors in four distinct categories!
- Outstanding Case Study – Student: Maya MacDonald, CRGS
Atypical Biliary Obstruction Secondary to Metastatic Endometrial Cancer
- Outstanding Article – Student: Sanaa Bookwala
The Effects of SLE on the Musculoskeletal System: The Role of Sonography
- Outstanding Article – Sonographer: Mohamed Nashnoush, CRGS, CRVS
Cranial Ultrasound for Prediction of Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Preterm Infants
Rising Star Award
Mohamed Nashnoush, CRGS, CRVS
Mohamed is not only a published researcher and award-winning sonographer but also a leader in AI innovation, education, and community mentorship. His early-career achievements signal a bright future.
Outstanding Mentorship Award
Lynne Brosseau, CRS-OB
Lynne is the kind of mentor every sonographer hopes to have—knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely invested in the growth of others. Her leadership in high-risk obstetrics and gynecology inspires confidence and excellence across her team.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Gisèle Mayer, CRGS, CRVS
Founder of the French-language ultrasound program at Collège Boréal, Gisèle’s work has transformed sonography education in Canada. Her legacy includes national influence on standards, curriculum, and certification—plus decades of mentorship, advocacy, and service.
Fellow Award
Denny Morissette, RTR, RDMS, CRGS
With over a decade of service on the Board and numerous committees, Denny has shaped Sonography Canada’s governance, standards, and strategy. His thoughtful leadership and dedication have left an indelible mark on our organization and profession.
To all of our award winners: your contributions inspire us. Thank you for your passion, your service, and your commitment to excellence in sonography.
Congratulations from all of us at Sonography Canada!
