International health research conference proves a hub for innovation and collaboration

Sara Santarossa, Paige Coyne, Ashley Redding, and Maya Zreik discuss a poster presentation

at the International Health Research Conference hosted by the WE-Spark Health Institute.

The third annual International Health Research Conference, hosted by the WE-Spark Health Institute at Caesars Windsor Convention Centre on March 22, brought together more than 350 researchers, clinicians, educators, and students from across Canada and the United States to engage with experts, foster collaboration, and explore the latest advancements in health research.

Representatives from Erie Shores HealthCare, St. Clair College, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, the University of Windsor, and Windsor Regional Hospital attended, alongside other esteemed institutions such as the Great Lakes Institute of Environmental Research (GLIER), Integrated Network for the Surveillance of Pathogens (INSPIRE), McMaster University, University of Calgary, University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, Western University, Henry Ford Health, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University.

“This annual conference plays a critical role in fostering partnerships that drive innovation and discovery,” says interim director Dora Cavallo Medved. “Each year, we welcome presenters from across Canada and the U.S., and it is inspiring to see the exchange of ideas that emerge and advance forward from bringing together diverse perspectives.”

She emphasizes the importance of international cross-border collaboration, especially in light of recent challenges to health research funding in the U.S.

Sara Santarossa, assistant scientist in the Department of Public Health Sciences and scientific director of the Patient-Engaged Research Center at Henry Ford Health, echoes this sentiment.

“Health-care research transcends borders. The patient voice, experiences, and perspectives are vital for improving healthcare globally,” Dr. Santarossa says. “Cross-border collaborations and partnerships are essential in the research space — having the best minds working together should not be limited by geography.”
Attending this conference is a reminder that meaningful research is still happening, and that is energizing, says Ashley Redding, an epidemiologist II at Henry Ford Health.

“Despite being separated by a border, we share many similar health concerns. Learning from international colleagues helps us develop strategies that we can apply to our own work,” she says. “However, there is uncertainty in research funding, which makes sustainable impact a challenge.”

Wayne State University medical student Ryan Palazzolo, a University of Windsor graduate, and former WE-SPARK research associate, highlights how the conference allows him to stay engaged with both his local Windsor community and his academic pursuits in the U.S.

“As a Windsor resident studying in Detroit, conferences like this allow me to stay connected to my local community while also engaging in international research partnerships,” he says. “It gives me a unique perspective on health care challenges and research opportunities in both Canada and the U.S.”

Ryan Palazzolo

The WE-SPARK Health Research Conference reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to fostering meaningful research partnerships and advancing healthcare innovation. By bringing together experts from diverse fields and institutions, the event continues to serve as a catalyst for ground breaking ideas and impactful research initiatives.

WE-SPARK Health Institute is a collaborative partnership among the University of Windsor, Erie Shores HealthCare, Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, St. Clair College, and Windsor Regional Hospital. The institute unites health research expertise, infrastructure, and resources to drive innovation and improve healthcare outcomes.