January 14, 2007 ~ Thunder Bay, ON) ~This evening, Dr. Lynn Martin, Assistant Professor in Lakehead University's Master of Public Health (MPH) program, will be recognized by the Corporation of the City of Thunder Bay as a Citizen of Exceptional Achievement (CEA).  

The City's CEA awards were established to officially recognize citizens, groups, and organizations in Thunder Bay who have achieved special accomplishments in the areas of Culture, Sports, and Public Service. The CEA's Official Recognizing Committee will recognize Dr. Martin for receiving a 2007 Ministry of Health Career Scientist Award. 

When asked how she felt about this honour, Dr. Martin says "It all feels a little surreal. Since moving here last summer, this community has been nothing by welcoming and supportive. I am very grateful to the City of Thunder Bay for this award, which not only means a great deal to me personally, but also professionally. The award brings attention to a program of research that I feel is very important, and which will have a big impact on mental health services in the province. I look forward to working with colleagues and community members, and appreciate any insight they might have on what the research priorities are in this region."

Dr. Martin will work on a program of research related to "Integration, Equality, Delivery, and Outcomes in Mental Health Services."  As part of this project, the mental health needs and service utilization of vulnerable populations, including persons in rural areas and Aboriginals will be examined.

Dr. Martin completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Ottawa, her Master's degree in Human Development at Laurentian University, and her PhD in Health Studies and Gerontology at the University of Waterloo. Her work focuses on the health and health services of vulnerable populations – including persons with mental illness, persons with intellectual disabilities, and older adults. She is a member of an International Network of Excellence for Mental Health as well as the Chief Editorial Board for the Journal on Developmental Disabilities. She has recently published two papers related to depression among older adults in chronic care settings, and older adults with intellectual disability.

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