Humans of LMP, Programs: Postgraduate, 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 feature faculty member Dr. Léonie Beauchamp, a genito-urinary (GU) pathologist at Toronto General Hospital, part of the University Health Network
How long have you been in LMP and what does your role involve?
I joined the team in October 2024. I am a genito-urinary (GU) pathologist at Toronto General Hospital, part of the University Health Network.
I spend most of my days at the microscope, examining specimens from the kidneys, bladder, and male genital organs to diagnose cancer and other diseases. I also have the privilege of contributing to the training of pathology residents and fellows.
What led you to pursue your current career path?
When I graduated from pathology residency in 2020, I began my practice at Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre in Moncton, New Brunswick. My work was diverse and stimulating, and I was fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful colleagues.
What stood out most to me, however, was teaching medical students at the university. I quickly realized I was looking forward to teaching just as much as, if not more than, my clinical work.
Over my three years in Moncton, I also developed a strong interest in GU pathology, gradually becoming a reference person in this area within my group.
My passion for education and GU pathology led me to pursue a fellowship in GU pathology at Johns Hopkins University in 2023–2024, with the goal of transitioning to a larger academic center where I could combine subspecialized practice with teaching at the medical school, residency and fellowship level.
What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?
When I was working in Moncton, I noticed that pathology had very little visibility within the undergraduate medical program, with minimal student exposure or interest. I invested in teaching and mentorship, which gradually led to a significant increase in student engagement and requests for pathology observerships and rotations.
One moment, in particular, stays with me. When my first cohort of students reached their white coat ceremony — marking their transition into clinical training — they were asked to choose a faculty member to deliver a speech on professionalism. For the first time, they chose a pathologist. They chose me.
It remains one of the most meaningful moments of my career.
What was the best career advice you ever received?
Treat career decisions as business, not personal.
You have to make choices based on your needs, your goals, and the life you want to build.
What has been an important learning experience in your life?
In medicine, we often assume that our path should be clear and linear, with little room for doubt: medical school, residency, maybe a fellowship, then a job we stay in long-term.
Over the past six years, I’ve learned that plans for the distant future don’t have to be fixed. You are allowed to question them, and to change them.
Choosing a different path is not a failure, it’s often a sign that you’re growing and aiming for a life that fits you better.
Who is an influential person in your life and why?
My dad. Even though he didn’t have the opportunity to pursue higher education, he always pushed me to keep learning.
He used to say: "You never know when a piece of seemingly random knowledge might help you shine in a conversation or an interview". He was right.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
I think of myself as an introvert, which tends to surprise people.
What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I do stand-up comedy, mostly at open mics at the local bars. I also practice karate and recently earned my red belt.
Outside of that, I enjoy spending time with my two kids, sharing meals with friends, playing board games and video games, and walking in the forest.
What is your favourite album, film and novel?
My favourite album is ‘’Break Syndical’’ by Les Cowboys Fringants. Sadly, the lead singer passed away in 2023 from prostate cancer.
My favourite novels are Docteure Irma by Pauline Gill and The Corpse Reader by Antonio Garrido.
I don’t have a single favourite film. I tend to enjoy movies based on the moment.
Who would be your dream dinner guests?
I would love to have dinner with the first Canadian women physicians, including Dr. Emily Stowe (first Canadian woman to get her medical degree), Dr. Jennie Trout (first licensed woman physician in Canada), Dr. Jennie Smillie Robertson (first female surgeon in Canada) and Dr. Irma Levasseur (first French-Canadian female physician).
I find their determination and courage incredibly inspiring.
Where/what is your favourite place?
My favourite place is a small beach in Cap-Pelé (New Brunswick), where I used to go after work with my kids. It was even better when the tide was low and we could explore the little temporary islands that appeared.
Wherever I am, the breeze brings me back there.
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?
A notebook and a deck of cards.
The notebook to write, reflect, and probably come up with new stand-up material. The deck of cards to keep my mind active, and because I can’t resist turning everything into a game.
