The Department of Family Medicine is pleased to welcome Andrew Marcheschi as its new Associate Director, Administration, for the Department of Family Medicine, the Office of Distributed Medical Education and the Division of Palliative Care Medicine (AEC 4). He replaces Kennedy Kanyang'onda who made the decision in early 2025 to pursue a new career opportunity overseas. We thank Kennedy for his excellent work and wish him the very best in his new pursuits.
A People-Oriented Leadership Approach
Though new to Family Medicine, Andrew is no stranger to 黑料不打烊, having held key administrative roles within the university over the past several years. When we asked to describe himself in three words, Andrew offers: dedicated, hardworking and team player. He says he strongly believes that success comes from collaboration at all levels 鈥� whether with faculty leadership, department staff, or external stakeholders.
鈥淗alf of this role is making connections鈥攏ot only at a higher level but also within the team itself,鈥� he explains. 鈥淚 believe in fostering an engaged and motivated team, where everyone understands our shared goals and the impact of their work.鈥�
Andrew鈥檚 first few weeks have been a whirlwind, filled with back-to-back meetings to get to know his new colleagues but also ensure a smooth transition from his previous team. Most recently, he was the Associate Director, Administration, for the Departments of Neurology & Neurosurgery, Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Psychiatry, and for the Centre for Studies in Aging (AEC 1) since 2022.
鈥淏efore I dive into projects, I want to understand the people behind them,鈥� he says. 鈥淔orming connections is important to me鈥攏ot just professionally but personally as well.鈥�
Among the key priorities in his new role will be to streamline operations, enhance communication and support the Department鈥檚 long-term strategic planning.
Fostering Collaboration and Wellness
Family Medicine is one of the largest departments housed within the Faculty of Medicine and Sciences and Andrew recognizes the importance of fostering collaboration across various teams. He believes that, while different units may sometimes work independently, there are always opportunities to bridge connections and create synergy. He aims to encourage open communication and innovative collaboration to ensure that the Department continues to thrive.
Working closely with Department Chair Marion Dove, MD, Andrew envisions their partnership as a strategic strength. 鈥淒r. Dove has a clear vision for the Department. My role is to support that vision, ensure the team understands where we鈥檙e headed, and work together to get there.鈥�
A strong advocate for team building, Andrew is particularly impressed by Family Medicine鈥檚 Wellness Committee, which organizes activities such as yoga sessions, arts and crafts, and book clubs to foster a positive work environment. 鈥淭he fact that such initiatives exist speaks volumes about the Department鈥檚 culture,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hey create a sense of community and belonging and it鈥檚 clear that people here care about each other. I鈥檓 excited to be a part of that.鈥�
Looking Ahead
As Andrew settles into his new role, he looks forward to learning more about Family Medicine鈥檚 unique operations and expanding his professional expertise. However, he is also keenly aware of the challenges ahead and the importance of adaptability 鈥攑articularly in navigating the university鈥檚 financial landscape.
Having served as Finance Officer at The Neuro, he is already accustomed to managing budgets and creating strong financial plans. 鈥淭he university is in a period of transition, and my focus is on ensuring that Family Medicine remains well-positioned to navigate these changes successfully.鈥�
While he may not have a magic wand, Andrew has a clear vision: to support the team, enhance efficiency and continue to foster a collaborative environment. 鈥淭he team is the driving force behind the Department, and they deserve to be celebrated,鈥� he concludes.
Welcome to Family Medicine, Andrew!
