Science in the Cinema presents Wonder
Presented by the UCalgary's Cumming School of Medicine, and hosted in partnership with the Calgary Public Library.
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Where: Central Library, 800 3 St SE, Calgary, AB
Doors Open: 5:00 pm
Begins at: 5:30 pm
About the film:
Wonder tells the inspiring story of August Pullman who was born with facial differences that prevented him from going to a mainstream school until 5th grade. As his classmates and community learn about compassion and acceptance, Auggie's journey will prove you can't blend in when you were born to stand out.
After the film, UCalgary experts will lead the audience in a discussion and Q&A about mental health for today’s youth.
Presented by the University of Calgary's Alberta Children's Hospital Institute, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, The Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education, Mental Health Research 4 Kids, and the Owerko Centre. Hosted in partnership with the Calgary Public Library.
FREE admission and snack, seating is first-come, first-serve.
Meet the Speakers
Dr. Suzanne Tough, PhD | Moderator
Dr. Tough is a life course epidemiologist with a focus on resilience and flourishing, recently publishing a workbook to support families in contemporary times. She is well known for her work on mental health, child development and supportive communities.
Dr. Deinera Exner-Cortens, PhD
Dr. Exner-Corens’ research focuses on supporting adolescents to thrive, by working to build healthy relationships with self and others. In her work, she partners with schools, community organizations, and youth themselves.
Dr. Cristian Zeni, MD, PhD
Along with his role as Clinical Professor at UCalgary, Dr. Zeni is responsible for a pediatric medical psychiatric program at the Peter Lougheed Centre and is Consultation-Liaison at Alberta Children's Hospital. His current research is on the ways that medical and emotional problems can occur together within individuals and their families.
Pippa Hunt
Member, Mental Health Research 4 Kids Youth Advisory Council, University of Calgary
Pippa Hunt is a student at the University of Calgary, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She is a Co-Chair on the Many Voices Council with Mental Health Research 4 Kids where she works alongside fellow youth to engage with research professionals to ensure inclusivity within mental health studies. Following an ADHD diagnosis in her childhood and a long struggle with self-acceptance as a result, she is interested in helping others to advocate for their needs and learn to embrace their differences.
Save The Date - February 24, 2026
A Broken Beat is a short film based on the lived experience of a family whose child was born with congenital heart defect. Told from the parents' perspective, it elaborates the dramatic challenges they face after receiving this diagnosis.
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