The Institute for Healthcare Improvement listed the University of Windsor chapter of its Open School among the most active in Canada. The IHI is an independent not-for-profit organization helping to lead the improvement of health care throughout the world.

The Open School aims to educate interprofessional students and faculty on improving the safety and quality of the healthcare system. Faculty advisor Michelle Freeman and chapter leader Susan Dennison started UWindsor’s Open School in 2009. Since then, it has continued to grow in members and accomplishments.

“Students and faculty from all disciplines are welcome to participate,” says Dr. Freeman. “They can learn about patient safety and quality improvement through educational sessions and online courses.”

Dennison says Windsor’s chapter is unique in its engagement of students.

“We assign nursing students to act as patient safety champions,” she says. “They help choose topics and organize and facilitate educational events.”

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