Humans of LMP, Programs: Graduate, Agile education, Inclusive community
Each month we speak to a member of the Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology community and find out more about them as part of an initiative from our Wellness, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Committee (WIDE).
This month, we featureLMP's Graduate Program Administrator, April Morris, who is also an amazing artist!
How long have you been at LMP and what does your role involve?
I have been at LMP for almost three years now. In my role, I act as the first point of contact to the graduate students in the research stream programs. I am their support throughout their time here in LMP and help guide them on their progress towards completing their degrees. I also work on processing applications to our programs while assisting applicants or prospect students by sharing information about our programs and application processes.
Tell us about your research
I do not do scientific research, but I am a visual artist who actively explores themes of feminist geography, urbanism and place making in my art practice. I am curious about how our built environment impacts our social and emotional well-being.
In my work, I reflect on my own individual experience as a woman living in the city of Toronto and paint urban landscape paintings that include imagery of the cityscape. I use pastel colours to represent the city in dream like states that feel warm, welcoming and calm.
My love of teaching lead me to the position I am in today. I have taught people of all ages and enjoy being someone who instills learning. I love to learn and being a part of an educational environment. It is very exciting to be a part of a team who gets to support the educational endeavours of people in our community.
What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?
Completing my Master of Fine Arts, I absolutely loved working so close with a community of artists and creatives. This led to some unique opportunities, one of which was working for an organization called Arts Can Teach which focusses on helping students learn hands on arts-infused lessons in math, science, history, and language. When working for Arts Can Teach, I jumpstarted a new after school art program for children. This was a free program for students at different age groups.
Another achievement I am most proud of- Squatting my own body weight. (I do a lot of weight-lifting)
What was the best career advice you ever received?
Be yourself.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
One of the most important learning experiences in my life was studying art. It opened my mind to thinking more critically, it taught me how to express my deep emotions beyond words and helped me develop a deeper understanding of community.
Learning from other artists who have dedicated their lives to speaking out about their lived experience and perspectives taught me a level of empathy that has allowed me to understand diverse perspectives and to better connect with other people’s experiences. Studying art, deepened my emotional intelligence and expanded my knowledge and awareness of the social justice issues we all face, and how to speak up for what we believe in. The arts have deeply impacted my life, my values and who I am today.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
It’s hard to name just one person. The people who were the most influential in my life were my professors. I loved learning everything I could from them. I looked up to their dedication to what they love, to teaching and to sharing their knowledge with others by encouraging them to grow in their own unique ways. Fostering a safe environment to learn and grow is a talent I think is aspirational.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
Something that might surprise people to know about me is that I enjoy weightlifting. I started training a couple of years ago and have integrated into my lifestyle. Before I started, I could never imagine lifting heavy weights at the gym. It has really helped build more confidence in myself.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy painting, weightlifting, and gaming.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
One of my favourite albums is Expert in a Dying Field by the Beths.
My Favourite film and novel are the same: The Lord of the Rings.
Who would be your dream dinner guest(s)?
Amy Poehler, I love her, she is so funny!
Where/what is your favourite place?
I love Toronto, there are so many wonderful things the city has to offer.
If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?
My paint and paintbrushes. I would love to spend all my time painting.
