Russell Williams receives inaugural Research Canada Leadership Award
Congratulations to Russell Williams, CFN Board Member, who was awarded the new Research Canada Leadership Award!
This new Award was created to honour champions who have made outstanding efforts in advocating for Canadian health research at the local, provincial and/or national level. Russell received his award at the HRF Gala Awards Dinner in partnership with Prix Galien Canada and Research Canada Toronto on November 19th, 2014.
Canadian health researchers are instrumental in making global medical advancements and in ensuring Canadians are the healthiest people in the world. Their dedication to discovery and to all aspects of our health have changed lives and improved our nation.
Equally instrumental are the dedicated and tireless efforts of health research advocates such as Russell Williams. Recognition of Canadian health research—the kind that attracts the necessary public and political support—comes from the work of leaders like Russell, and helps ensure that health research becomes a high priority for all governments and for all Canadians.
About Russell Williams
Russell Williams is the president of Canada’s Research-Based Pharmaceutical Companies (Rx&D), an industry association representing the dedicated professionals in more than 50 member companies. Russell leads the organization as it works to improve the pharmaceutical access and regulatory environment, to pave the way for innovation in Canada by advocating for a world class intellectual property regime, and to bring the innovative pharmaceutical industry to the table with all other partners in an effort to ensure Canadians benefit from a sustainable healthcare system. Russell brings a passion for and a life-long commitment to the health of Canadians to this national association, ensuring that discussions around the role of innovative medicines and vaccines reflect their overall value and potential.
Prior to joining Rx&D, he had a successful career in provincial politics and community service. For 15 years, he represented the Montreal riding of Nelligan in the National Assembly of Quebec. During his career as Liberal MNA, he led numerous public policy debates on complex health issues, such as the role of government in research and development (R&D), compensation for victims of contaminated blood, access to services for the disabled and pre-hospital emergency services.
He is well known for his advocacy for individual rights and government services focused on the needs of citizens. He continues active volunteer involvement in palliative care, and in January of 2014 received the Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC) second annual Award of Excellence in Advocacy for his tireless advocacy for hospice palliative care, from his involvement in establishing the West Island Palliative Care Residence to his advocacy efforts as a member of the Champions Council of the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA).
About Research Canada
Research Canada is a national, broad-based alliance dedicated to advancing health research through collaborative advocacy, engaging media, elected officials, and policy makers to bring greater attention to the critical importance of long-term, sustainable health research, and the need for funding.