The Michelle Strovski Rising Star Award
The Michelle Strovski Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award was first awarded in 2021 to recognize early-career physicians. Nominees are exceptional early-career physicians or medical staff members who are emerging leaders, whose actions and activities consistently exemplify enthusiasm, commitment, and professionalism. They provide their patients with compassionate, comprehensive care, and enhance the quality of their medical community through involvement in initiatives and collaborative efforts.
In 2026, this award was renamed the Michelle Strovski Rising Star Award in honour of Dr. Strovski’s legacy and her lasting contributions to Ridge Meadows Hospital. Dr. Strovski was a respected physician, leader, and advocate for physician engagement, education, and innovation. Her work in revitalizing Grand Rounds, fostering collaboration across departments, and championing physician wellness left a meaningful and enduring impact. This award now serves to honour her memory by recognizing those who embody the same passion, leadership, and commitment to excellence that she demonstrated throughout her career.
Previous Winners
Dr. Lindsay McCormick
We are thrilled to present this year’s Michelle Strovski Rising Star Award to Dr. Lindsay McCormick, a physician who is quickly making a meaningful impact on Ridge Meadows Hospital. Since joining RMH in 2022, Dr. McCormick has demonstrated a strong commitment to quality improvement and patient safety, most notably through her leadership of the Emergency Department Morbidity and Mortality Rounds. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. McCormick has recently stepped into the role of Co-Local Department Head; she is known for her team-oriented approach and her ability to bring people together to advance shared goals.
Balancing her professional contributions with the demands of raising school-aged twins, Lindsay exemplifies dedication, resilience, and leadership both inside and outside the hospital. Her energy, thoughtful approach, and commitment to continuous improvement make her a respected colleague and an inspiring example of early-career physician leadership.
Dr. Martin Nobar
We are thrilled to present this year’s Rising Star Award to Dr. Nobar, a physician whose emerging leadership, energy, and dedication have already made a meaningful impact on our hospital and community.
Dr. Nobar has played a vital role in several important initiatives, including his work on the Mobile Overdose Prevention Site project at Ridge Meadows Hospital and the development of the Medical Transition Unit—both aimed at improving access, continuity, and compassionate care for some of our most vulnerable patients. Most notably, Dr. Nobar has recently stepped into the significant role of Emergency Department Head, a position he has taken on with humility, focus, and a deep
commitment to his team.
Known for his collaborative spirit and passion for improving the system, Dr. Nobar leads with heart and purpose. His enthusiasm, thoughtful approach, and dedication to high quality, patient-centered care have made him a respected colleague and an inspiring example of the next generation of physician leadership. Congratulations Martin on this well-deserved recognition.
Dr. Elizabeth Lee
We are pleased to present Dr. Elizabeth Lee with the 2024 Rising Star Award. Dr. Lee graduated from UBC Medical school in 2011. She is a specialist in Internal Medicine and Nephrology, and subspecialized in Dialysis. Elizabeth was nominated for this award by several of her colleagues.
Elizabeth is a hardworking and dedicated team player. She works well with all her colleagues and allied health partners, and above all else, she places patient care as her top priority. She has been instrumental in helping advance the RMH Internal Medicine service into the current two physician call system, often volunteering to do more than required in order to facilitate creating a better GIM program.
Recently Elizabeth has also provided Hospitalist coverage, to help facilitate the contract negotiations and help support the Hospitalist service. Her dedication to Ridge Meadows Hospital and to her patients has been unwavering and is highly appreciated.
Dr. Michelle Strovski
We are pleased to recognize Dr. Michelle Strovski for her outstanding contributions to Grand Rounds and physician engagement at Ridge Meadows Hospital. Dr. Strovski is a respected Urologist and valued member of the Surgery Department, and is known for her determination and strong commitment to improving patient care. As one of the few female urologists in the region, Michelle has quickly made her mark, consistently demonstrating leadership by asking important questions, challenging the status quo, and advocating for meaningful change.
Michelle has been instrumental in revitalizing Grand Rounds at RMH, recognizing the importance of strengthening physician education and fostering cross-departmental connection. Her leadership and dedication were particularly impactful during the COVID-19 pandemic, where her efforts helped maintain engagement and continuity during a challenging time.
In her role on the MSA and Physician Engagement Society Board, Michelle brings a thoughtful and determined voice to discussions around physician wellness, leadership, and accountability. She approaches her work with clarity, persistence, and a strong sense of purpose.
Dr. Strovski’s dedication to innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement has made a lasting impact on Ridge Meadows Hospital and its medical staff. Her contributions are deeply valued and sincerely appreciated.
Dr. Joseph Lee
We are pleased to recognize Dr. Joseph Lee as the 2021 recipient of the Rising Star Award, in recognition of his leadership, dedication, and meaningful contributions to Ridge Meadows Hospital and the medical staff community. Dr. Lee has been an exemplary leader among his peers, demonstrating a strong commitment to quality improvement, education, and collaboration. His work in advancing Quality Improvement initiatives and training has played an important role in strengthening clinical skills, team preparedness, and patient safety within our hospital.
Since joining the Medical Staff Association Board of Directors in 2018, Dr. Lee has been an active and engaged contributor, consistently supporting initiatives that enhance physician engagement and improve the overall functioning of our medical community. His willingness to step forward, contribute his time, and support meaningful change reflects his dedication to both his colleagues and the organization. Above all, Dr. Lee is deeply committed to the care and wellbeing of his patients. His thoughtful, patient-centered approach, combined with his leadership and involvement across multiple initiatives, has made him a highly respected and valued member of the Ridge Meadows Hospital community.
Congratulations, Dr. Lee, on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to your continued contributions and leadership in the years ahead.