Dr. Jerry M. Maniate exemplifies the profound impact that compassionate leadership, relentless curiosity, and Christ-centered values can have in shaping not just careers—but systems, communities, and lives.
A proud graduate of MBCI, Class of 1994, Jerry reflects on his high school years as a time that gave him “not just academic excellence, but roots.” Coming to MBCI in Grade 10 from a public school, he found himself embraced by a tight-knit, faith-driven community where his sense of belonging and purpose were deeply shaped. Music, mentorship, and meaningful friendships laid the foundation for a life of service—and still reverberate in his life today.
Now an accomplished physician, educator, and leader, Dr. Maniate serves as Vice Chair of Member Support in the Department of Medicine at the University of Ottawa and is clinically based at The Ottawa Hospital. He is the founding director of the Equity in Health Systems Lab, based at the Bruyère Health Research Institute (Ottawa, ON) —an internationally recognized initiative that brings together clinicians, scholars, learners, patients, and policymakers from across disciplines to tackle systemic inequities in healthcare. He also teaches and mentors the next generation of medical professionals, consistently integrating values of humility, compassion, and equity into both practice and pedagogy.
A respected voice on equity and ethics in medical education, Jerry has led global research and policy efforts, including guidelines on the ethical and professional use of AI in healthcare training, and creating health promoting work and learning environments. His influence extends from hospital corridors in Canada to international forums, including recent presentations in Thailand and Ireland. He continues to help shape how educators worldwide think about fairness and inclusion in medical / health professions education.
Despite his remarkable resume, Jerry’s perspective remains refreshingly grounded: “My path hasn’t been linear. But looking back, I can see God’s hand in every turn.” He credits his MBCI teachers—like Mr. Goossen, Mr. Doerksen, and Mr. Wall—for nurturing not only his intellect, but his character. “They weren’t just teaching us subjects. They were modeling how to live faithfully and lead with integrity.”
Dr. Maniate’s commitment to Christian education continues today—serving on the board of Ottawa Christian School, where his children attend, helping develop advancement strategies, and championing community involvement wherever he goes. For him, Christian schools aren’t just places of learning; they’re spaces for spiritual formation and community development.
Dr. Maniate is grateful to his dear wife Susan, two daughters (Myrah and Zara), his parents and immediate family, his church community (Sequoia Church in Ottawa), and his close friends, especially those from the Class of 1994 for their ongoing support and encouragement to persevere during the challenges associated with this work.
When asked what this award means to him, Jerry is both humbled and energized: “To be recognized by your high school—by the community that helped shape your faith and identity—it’s deeply meaningful.”
To MBCI students wondering how to navigate an uncertain future, Jerry offers this timeless encouragement from Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him—and He will direct your path.” He adds, “Your life doesn’t have to be perfectly planned. It just has to be surrendered.”
We are honoured to recognize Dr. Jerry M. Maniate as a 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. His life is a testament to the enduring power of faith, service, and leadership—and an inspiration for MBCI students and alumni everywhere.