From NorthernStar's CEO, Jannette Festival:
One constant aspect of the NorthernStar Mothers Milk Bank is its adaptability to change. Despite being in existence for twelve years, it continues to evolve and develop, always striving for improvement.
Welcome Jessica Ferguson
I am delighted to formally introduce Jessica Ferguson to NorthernStar Mothers Milk Bank, effective December 2022. Jessica has graciously accepted a position on the board of the NorthernStar Mothers Milk Bank and is eager to make a significant contribution to this vital milk bank community. This community is dedicated to assisting mothers in providing essential support and nutrition to infants through the generous donation of breast milk.
Jessica possesses a profound commitment to ensuring the accessibility of donor milk to all infants in need, thereby positively impacting the mental well-being of parents caring for medically fragile or ill infants. In her professional life, Jessica practices law in Calgary and holds membership in the Law Society of Alberta.
Welcome Dr. Merilee Brockway
I'm thrilled to announce that we have an incredible addition to our team. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Merilee Brockway, who has expressed interest in joining the NorthernStar Mothers Milk Bank (NMMB) Board of Directors!
Dr. Brockway comes to us with a wealth of experience as a registered nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, combined with a profound passion for human milk science and breastfeeding research. Her dedication to our mission has made Merilee a valued member of our community for the past five years, and we couldn't be more excited about the potential she brings to the Board of Directors.
Dr. Brockway's primary focus is to enhance human milk feeding rates and ensure the accessibility of donor human milk to all infants. Her professional expertise centers around advancing the evidence supporting the benefits of donor human milk and exclusive human milk feeding, particularly for infants facing various biological and social challenges.
In this role, Dr. Brockway brings cutting-edge knowledge in human milk feeding, donor human milk, and microbiome science, as well as a strong network of human milk researchers, clinicians, and policy makers. This network will be invaluable in making evidence-based decisions that align with our mission and goals.
Merilee is also committed to actively promoting our milk bank within professional, academic, and clinical circles, further extending our reach and impact.
We believe that Merilee’s expertise and passion for human milk banking make her an ideal candidate for a position on the Board of Directors at NorthernStar Mothers Milk Bank.
Please join me in congratulating Dr. Brockway on this exciting new role within our organization. Together, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of infants and their families.
Gratitude and Farewell to Dr. Doug Yeung
Today, with a mixture of gratitude and fond farewell, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Dr. Doug Yeung, one of our founding directors, who has been with NorthernStar Mothers Milk Bank (NMMB) for an incredible twelve years.
Dr. Yeung's role as a dedicated pediatrician, tirelessly supporting infants in the NICU, and his exceptional pediatric practice have enriched our organization with a wealth of knowledge and unwavering support, particularly in the realm of child nutrition. His tireless commitment to the well-being of our little ones has not only shaped NMMB but has also touched countless lives.
Dr. Yeung, your advocacy for donor human milk has been truly inspiring. Your belief in the transformative power of human milk and its pivotal role in nurturing and healing fragile infants has been a beacon for all of us. Your passion and dedication have not only enhanced our mission but have also warmed the hearts of everyone privileged to work alongside you.
Although we bid farewell to Dr. Yeung as a founding director, we take comfort in knowing that he will continue to grace us with his wisdom and support as a member of our Advisory Committee. His profound experience will undoubtedly continue to influence and shape the future of NMMB, ensuring that our commitment to providing donor human milk remains unwavering.
Dr. Yeung, your legacy at NorthernStar Mothers Milk Bank is one of compassion, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the health and well-being of our tiniest community members. Your impact is immeasurable, and we are profoundly grateful for the privilege of having you on our journey.
As Dr. Yeung embarks on this new phase of involvement with NMMB, please join us in extending our heartfelt thanks for his exceptional service and in sending warm wishes for the future. While we will miss his presence in his current role, we look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts in his new capacity.
Thank you, Dr. Yeung, for your outstanding contributions to NMMB, the infants, and their families.