The University of Waterloo proudly celebrated the achievements of two exceptional ARCH Lab scholars, Dr. Shannon Reaume and Dr. Megan Dol, who were officially conferred their Doctor of Philosophy degrees this week. Their convocation marks the culmination of years of dedicated research aimed at improving the lives of children and youth living with complex health challenges.
Dr. Shannon Reaume’s dissertation made significant contributions to the understanding of physical-mental multimorbidity in children. Using data from the 2014 Ontario Child Health Study, her research examined the burden, risk factors, and mental health service outcomes for children experiencing both physical and mental health conditions. Her findings offer critical insights for policymakers and healthcare providers seeking to design more responsive and equitable mental health services for vulnerable youth.
Dr. Megan Dol’s thesis focused on the developmental trajectories of psychopathology in youth with chronic physical illness. Her work explored how these trajectories mediate the relationship between family dynamics and mental health service utilization. By highlighting the complex interplay between physical illness, psychological development, and family context, Dr. Dol’s research paves the way for more holistic and family-centered approaches to mental health care.
As they embark on the next chapters of their careers, Dr. Reaume and Dr. Dol leave behind a legacy of scholarship that will continue to inform and inspire. Their work stands as a testament to the power of research to drive meaningful change in the lives of children and families across Canada and beyond.
They will both be missed by everyone in the ARCH Lab.
Congratulations and all the best in your future endeavours, Shannon and Megan!
