Media Advisory - Governor General to Invest 44 Recipients into the Order of Canada

OTTAWA, Nov. 15, 2017 /CNW/ - Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, will invest 10 Officers and 34 Members into the Order of Canada during a ceremony at Rideau Hall, on Friday, November 17, 2017, at 10:30 a.m.

About the Order of Canada
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada, one of our country's highest civilian honours, recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Close to 7 000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and have taken to heart the motto of the Order: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM ("They desire a better country"). Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada.

In 2017, the Order of Canada marks 50 years of honouring Canadians. Celebrate the Order of Canada's 50^th anniversary at OC50.gg.ca and use the hashtag #OC50 on social media platforms.

A schedule for the investiture ceremony, the list of recipients with citations, and a backgrounder on the Order of Canada are attached.

Media wishing to cover the event are asked to confirm their attendance with the
Rideau Hall Press Office, and must arrive at the Princess Anne Entrance
no later than 10:15 a.m. on the day of the ceremony.

Follow GGJuliePayette and RideauHall on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

CEREMONY SCHEDULE

Members of the media are asked to observe the following schedule:

9:45 a.m.:	Media arrive at Rideau Hall
10:30 a.m.:	Ceremony begins
	The Governor General speaks
	The Governor General presents the insignia of the Order of Canada (Officers first, followed by Members)
11:45 a.m.:	Interviews with recipients

RECIPIENTS

OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

David G. Barber, O.C.	Winnipeg, Man.
Gloria Cranmer Webster, O.C.	Alert Bay, B.C.
Denis Daneman, O.C.	Toronto, Ont.
Anne Giardini, O.C.	Vancouver, B.C.
Bryan Kolb, O.C.	Lethbridge, Alta.
Richard Borshay Lee, O.C.	Toronto, Ont.
Denis Marleau, O.C., C.Q.	Montréal, Que.
Craig McClure, O.C.	Toronto, Ont.
Charles Haskell Tator, O.C. This is a promotion within the Order.	Toronto, Ont.
Alex Trebek, O.C.	Sudbury, Ont. and Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Jan Andrews, C.M. (posthumous)	Lanark, Ont.
Wesley Armour, C.M.	Moncton, N.B.
Robert E. Baker, C.M.	Kingston and Toronto, Ont.
Manon Barbeau, C.M., O.Q.	Montréal, Que.
Donna June Bennett, C.M.	Campbellford, Ont.
René-Luc Blaquière, C.M.	Montréal, Que.
Paul Michael Boothe, C.M.	London, Ont.
André Bourbeau, C.M., C.Q.	Dunham, Que.
Bonnie Brooks, C.M.	Toronto, Ont.
Katherine Carleton, C.M.	Peterborough, Ont.
Elaine Carty, C.M.	Vancouver, B.C.
Louise Champoux-Paillé, C.M., C.Q.	Montréal, Que.
Janet Ecker, C.M.	Ajax, Ont.
John Philip Fay, C.M.	Kingston and Toronto, Ont.
Brian Leslie Finley, C.M.	Campbellford, Ont.
George Norman Hillmer, C.M.	Ottawa, Ont.
Anne-Marie Hubert, C.M.	Montréal, Que.
Gregory S. Kealey, C.M.	Fredericton, N.B.
Rudy Koehler, C.M.	Toronto, Ont.
France Labelle, C.M.	Montréal, Que.
Patricia Anne Lang, C.M.	Thunder Bay, Ont.
Paul Joseph Daniel Langlois, C.M.	Kingston and Toronto, Ont.
Clarence Louie, C.M., O.B.C.	Oliver, Ont.
Linda E. McKnight, C.M.	Toronto, Ont.
Pierre Morrissette, C.M.	Oakville, Ont.
Terrance Paul, C.M.	Membertou, N.S.
Gerald Pond, C.M., O.N.B.	Rothesay, N.B.
Strinivasan Reddy, C.M., O.M.	Winnipeg, Man.
Jean Lucien Rouleau, C.M.	Montréal, Que.
Isaac Schiff, C.M.	Toronto, Ont. and Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A.
Robert Gordon Sinclair, C.M.	Kingston and Toronto, Ont.
David Steinberg, C.M.	Winnipeg, Man. and Bel-Air, California, U.S.A.
Michael A. Walker, C.M.	Nanoose Bay, B.C.
William Price Wilder, C.M.	Toronto, Ont.

RECIPIENTS' CITATIONS

OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

David G. Barber, O.C.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

David Barber is one of our nation's most influential Arctic researchers. A Canada Research Chair and professor at the University of Manitoba, he is at the forefront of studying the impact of climate change on sea ice. Notably, his efforts have led to the establishment of a marine research centre in northern Manitoba, and have expanded Canada's capacity to detect and mitigate transportation-related contaminant spills. Additionally, he has contributed extensively to regulatory-, policy- and community-based monitoring programs to measure and respond to Arctic climate change.

Gloria Cranmer Webster, O.C.
Alert Bay, British Columbia

Gloria Cranmer Webster has devoted her life to the preservation and celebration of Indigenous culture and traditions. She was the founding director and curator of the U'mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay, which preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of the Kwakwaka'wakw and houses a collection repatriated from the Canadian Museum of History. A proud 'Namgis, she has lent her expertise in anthropology and museology to numerous exhibits within Canada and abroad. Through her wisdom and determination, she has helped foster greater public knowledge of her heritage.

Denis Daneman, O.C.
Toronto, Ontario

Denis Daneman has had a profound impact on the well-being of children. He led a culture of excellence as chair of pediatrics at the University of Toronto and the Hospital for Sick Children for 10 years, expanding SickKids' standing as a world-leading pediatric facility. He is recognized for his values-driven leadership and mentorship, notably in the areas of global child health and social pediatrics. A renowned diabetologist, he has produced influential clinical research studies involving type 1 diabetes among children.

Anne Giardini, O.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Anne Giardini is a lawyer, businesswoman, author and community leader whose diverse talents enrich multiple spheres. Former head of Weyerhaeuser Canada, she was admired for her groundbreaking leadership in the Canadian forestry industry. Beyond the boardroom, she is a gifted writer who has penned two best-selling novels and who has tirelessly served the literary community, notably as chair of Vancouver's International Writers Festival. In all her varied pursuits, including her role as chancellor of Simon Fraser University, she has been a thoughtful advocate for the advancement of women, particularly in non-traditional sectors and roles.

Bryan Kolb, O.C.
Lethbridge, Alberta

Bryan Kolb has redefined the modern field of behavioural neuroscience and neuropsychology. A distinguished professor at the University of Lethbridge, he pioneered research on the prefrontal cortex of rodents and demonstrated the value of these non-human models in understanding human conditions. His discoveries regarding the brain plasticity of humans have revolutionized treatments for brain injury and disease. He was instrumental in establishing the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience in Lethbridge, which has emerged as a world leader in neuroscience research.

Richard Borshay Lee, O.C.
Toronto, Ontario

Richard Borshay Lee transformed anthropology's understanding of hunter-gatherers and forced the reassessment of long-held assumptions about social evolution. Professor emeritus at the University of Toronto, he was among the first to demonstrate how the Ju/'hoansi people of southern Africa were in possession of a highly refined culture and secure mode of subsistence. In recent years, he has shifted his focus to the detrimental effects of the HIV/AIDS crisis, and his efforts to fight the disease have included the establishment of medical partnerships between Canadian and African institutions.

Denis Marleau, O.C., C.Q.
Montréal, Quebec

Director and set designer Denis Marleau is considered one of the creative driving forces of avant-garde theatre. He is the founder and the executive and artistic director of the UBU theatre company, and his renown has earned him invitations to create and present his works internationally. He is also in demand as a trainer, and regularly offers internships in Canada and abroad.

Craig McClure, O.C.
Toronto, Ontario

Craig McClure has made important contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS. His involvement began at the grassroots level, but his capacity for leadership led him to take on roles of increasing importance in numerous organizations. As the executive director of the International AIDS Society, he rallied the globe to expand access to treatment; later on, at UNICEF, he spearheaded programs aimed at eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission. His compassion and commitment serve as an inspiration for a new generation of activists.

Charles Haskell Tator, O.C.
Toronto, Ontario

Eminent neurosurgeon Charles Tator is dedicated to protecting Canadian athletes. A world-renowned authority on concussions and spinal injury, he is one of our country's leaders in emphasizing the importance of prevention and improved management of these conditions. Working with the Canadian Concussion Centre at the Toronto Western Hospital, he has been a strong advocate for safe amateur and professional sports. Through his clinical research and his advocacy, he has become the public face of and spokesperson for sports safety across the country and abroad.

This is a promotion within the Order.

Alex Trebek, O.C.
Sudbury, Ontario and Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

Who has set the tone of the quiz show "Jeopardy!" with his steady presence and quiet intelligence for more than 33 years? Through his iconic television work, Alex Trebek has instilled a love of learning in millions of people around the world. Off-camera, he is a champion of geographic literacy in the United States and Canada through his work with their geographic societies. Generous with his time and support, he is committed to multiple educational, environmental and humanitarian causes, notably as an ambassador for World Vision.

MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Jan Andrews, C.M. (posthumous)
Lanark, Ontario

Jan Andrews' devotion to preserving our oral literature has enriched Canada's cultural life. A children's author and storytelling pioneer, she helped give living presence to stories through various workshops and reading series, day-long recitals of literary epics, and the StorySave program, which records the voices of elder storytellers for future generations. She was the first president of Storytellers of Canada, and shared her love of the arts as the co-founder of an education group designed to introduce youth to various artistic disciplines.

The Order of Canada insignia awarded to the late Ms. Jan Andrews will be received by
Ms. Jennifer Cayley.

Wesley Armour, C.M.
Moncton, New Brunswick

Wesley Armour has demonstrated extraordinary leadership in business and community initiatives. As CEO of Armour Transportation Systems, he grew a small, family-owned business into a leading company within the sector, while fostering corporate social responsibility. In addition to serving as head of regional and national transportation associations, he is known as one of his city's "go-to" people. His engagement in community capital campaigns, education and health, as well as his mentorship, have contributed to the economic and social vitality of the region.

Robert E. Baker, C.M., Gord Downie, C.M., John Philip Fay, C.M.,
Paul Joseph Daniel Langlois, C.M., and Robert Gordon Sinclair, C.M.
Kingston and Toronto, Ontario

The Tragically Hip has been one of Canada's most beloved rock bands for over 30 years.
Rob Baker, Gord Downie, Johnny Fay, Paul Langlois and Gord Sinclair achieved renown for their memorable performances and storytelling. From hockey to history, the band's lyrical references to Canadian topics created a sense of what it's like to love—and live in—this country. The band's place in the heart of our music scene is reflected in its numerous accolades and its legions of devoted fans. The Tragically Hip also resonates with audiences for its generous support for many social and environmental causes.

The Order of Canada insignia awarded to the late Mr. Gord Downie was presented to him at a previous ceremony.

Manon Barbeau, C.M., O.Q.
Montréal, Quebec

Manon Barbeau is an award-winning filmmaker whose work has a particular focus on social justice issues. She transformed the cinematic art form into an intervention tool to reach a voiceless generation. She founded Wapikoni Mobile, a mobile film and music production studio that travels to communities across Canada to meet with Aboriginal youth and empower them to make their voices heard. Wapikoni showcases contemporary Aboriginal culture by celebrating its richness and diversity.

Donna June Bennett, C.M. and Brian Leslie Finley, C.M.
Campbellford, Ontario

Donna Bennett and Brian Finley have created a cultural cornerstone in rural Ontario. After pursuing their individual performance careers, this musical duo established Westben, a performing arts festival in the Trent Hills region. Thanks to their vision and leadership, the festival has brought together both professional and amateur musicians, exposed local audiences to music of the highest calibre, and achieved artistic excellence. Their work has contributed to community building in the region, and has played an important role in supporting Canadian music and emerging artists.

René-Luc Blaquière, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

For over 50 years, René-Luc Blaquière has worked to develop the hospitality industry in Canada and abroad. Through teaching and involvement with the Institut de tourisme et d'hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ), he played a significant role in solidifying the institute's international reputation. He left his mark, helping to create and providing leadership for the ITHQ Foundation, which supports the upcoming generation. Quebec cuisine is widely known thanks in large part to his commitment to train skilled professionals and promote the field.

Paul Michael Boothe, C.M.
London, Ontario

Paul Michael Boothe has been a key figure in Canadian economic policy making. A professor at the University of Alberta and Western University, he has helped bridge the gap between economic theory and the practical realities of policy implementation. He applied this knowledge for the benefit of Canadians as a senior official in the provincial and federal governments. In these roles, he is best known for his leadership promoting fiscal reform in Saskatchewan and for supporting the Canadian auto industry during the financial crisis.

André Bourbeau, C.M., C.Q.
Dunham, Quebec

An accomplished businessman, former politician and great patron of the arts, André Bourbeau has distinguished himself by his dedication to the development of Canada's music and opera world. Having served as president of the Jeunesses Musicales Canada Foundation for nearly 20 years, he continues to contribute to the organization's growth by organizing benefits. As co-founder and president of the Concours musical international de Montréal, he supports the best young talents from around the world. A philanthropist, he personally funds the annual bursary for the best Canadian artist.

Bonnie Brooks, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Businesswoman Bonnie Brooks has helped transform the retail experience in Canada and abroad. Her innovative leadership was instrumental in revitalizing two iconic department stores: the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) and Lane Crawford. She is noted for spearheading HBC's Heritage Stripe and Olympic collections, as well as the Red Mitten program, which generated national pride and galvanized support for Canadian athletes. In addition, she has helped Canadian designers reach international markets and has led philanthropic initiatives in the workplace and in the broader community.

Katherine Carleton, C.M.
Peterborough, Ontario

Katherine Carleton is an important voice for Canadian artists and musicians. In a career spanning 30 years, she has worked as a clarinetist, teacher and administrator, most recently as head of Orchestras Canada. Regarded as an articulate arts advocate, she has helped raise the profile of classical music and unify the arts sector in a changing cultural landscape. Her initiatives, including the creation of the Performing Arts Alliance of Canada, have promoted cross-disciplinary advocacy, driven national arts policy and established professional development for leaders in the sector.

Elaine Carty, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Elaine Carty has expanded the choices available to women seeking obstetrical care. Driven by a desire to provide safe and effective care for pregnant women, she played an instrumental role in establishing Canada's first in-hospital midwifery service at the BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre. She led efforts to legalize and regulate midwifery and, as a professor at the University of British Columbia, founded her province's first educational program in this field. Her research on women with disabilities and on women's experiences of hospitalization has increased the safety and effectiveness of maternal care in Canada.

Louise Champoux-Paillé, C.M., C.Q.
Montréal, Quebec

Louise Champoux-Paillé is renowned for her commitment to good governance. A distinguished administrator, she has broken ground by holding strategic positions never before held by women, notably with the Ordre des administrateurs agréés du Québec and the Bureau des services financiers. She is a tireless champion of women's participation in governance and is an inspiration to the next generation by her example, through her research and as a mentor. Numerous charities and organizations are better for her administrative rigour and deep commitment to the community.

Janet Ecker, C.M.
Ajax, Ontario

Janet Ecker has been a devoted public servant. She held several senior cabinet positions within the Ontario provincial government, where she made positive changes for students, children in care and people with disabilities. Since her retirement from politics, she has been promoting Toronto as a leader in the international financial services industry, notably through her work with the Toronto Financial Services Alliance and the Global Risk Institute.

George Norman Hillmer, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Norman Hillmer is a leading historian of Canadian foreign policy. His work as a  professor of history and international affairs at Carleton University focuses on peacekeeping and on Canada's relationships with the United Kingdom and the United States. He has shed light on the factors that led to Canada's emergence as an independent country in the 20^th century, particularly the creation of our modern foreign policy regime. He is also committed to increasing public knowledge of our nation's past, and was one of the major players behind the creation of the Canadian Encyclopedia.

Anne-Marie Hubert, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Anne-Marie Hubert has a proven track record as an exceptional administrator, rising through the ranks of global firm EY, where she serves as managing partner for Quebec. She is deeply committed to parity and inclusion in business. She has also made a tangible impact within her organization through her initiatives to encourage professional development and mentorship for women and cultural minorities, initiatives that have since been emulated elsewhere. Actively involved in governance, she brings her energy and know-how to numerous educational, charitable and business organizations.

Gregory S. Kealey, C.M.
Fredericton, New Brunswick

For four decades, Gregory Kealey has contributed to a better understanding of Canadian working-class history. A leading social historian, he also held a variety of academic and administrative roles at three of Atlantic Canada's universities, notably as provost and vice-president of research at the University of New Brunswick. In addition, he is an award-winning author and co-founder of the respected academic journal Labour/Le Travail, which he edited for more than 20 years. In this role, he has introduced citizens to issues critical to the maintenance of democracy in the modern world.

Rudy Koehler, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Rudy Koehler believes in creating opportunities for others. After enduring a difficult childhood and the loss of both his parents in wartime Germany, he arrived in Canada and began a 50-year career with an electrical supply manufacturer, eventually serving as head of Noma Industries. Motivated by empathy and an imbued sense of giving back, he has used his business success to help others overcome adversity. His giving is directed towards scholarships for financially disadvantaged students, educational institutions, health care initiatives and charities serving people with disabilities.

France Labelle, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

France Labelle is making a positive difference in the fight against poverty and homelessness. Her efforts as co-founder and executive director of the Refuge des Jeunes de Montréal have helped to meet the emergency and social housing needs of more than 20 000 youths over the past 30 years. Her commitment to protecting the rights of those most in need and her leadership in various forums and arenas notably led to the adoption of the Politique québécoise de lutte à l'itinérance.

Patricia Anne Lang, C.M.
Thunder Bay, Ontario

Pat Lang is passionate about changing lives through learning. As a student-centered academic leader, she has influenced the growth of programs, enrolment and facilities at several colleges in Ontario and Quebec, notably during her presidency of Confederation College. Admired for her collaborative and authentic style, she established partnerships to improve access to education for Aboriginal students, and to enhance employment opportunities for graduates. In addition, she shared her talents as an engaged leader in both the college system and her community.

Clarence Louie, C.M., O.B.C.
Oliver, British Columbia

Clarence Louie has brought prosperity to his community. Elected chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band at the age of 24, he was driven to improve living standards for his people. To this end, he formed a development corporation to foster business relationships and entrepreneurship. Over the past three decades, his efforts have helped revitalize the community with the establishment of a cultural centre and several businesses, including a winery, a golf course and a commercial centre. In addition, he has been instrumental in safeguarding the Okanagan language and cultural heritage for future generations.

Linda E. McKnight, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Linda McKnight is well known as a pioneering woman of Canadian publishing. For more than 25 years she worked as an editor and publisher at influential Canadian houses, helping to raise industry standards and shape the profession. Later, she cemented her reputation as a leading literary agent with MGA Inc., and then with Westwood Creative Artists. Known as a stalwart friend to writers, she has helped the careers of numerous fiction and non-fiction authors, latterly supporting the works of many of Canada's notable historians.

Pierre Morrissette, C.M.
Oakville, Ontario

Pierre Morrisette has transformed the way Canadians understand the weather. Under his leadership, The Weather Network/MétéoMédia has become Canada's leading national weather information distributor. Through his company, Pelmorex Media, he has promoted the development of new meteorological technologies to ensure that even the most remote Canadian towns are provided with accurate, up-to-date weather information. Dedicated to helping others, he is also a generous philanthropist in the areas of mental health, education and the arts, and is a mentor to young professionals at the Ivey School of Business.

Terrance Paul, C.M.
Membertou, Nova Scotia

Chief Terrance Paul has dedicated his life to establishing a better future for his constituents, especially for youth. For more than three decades, as a leader and member of Indigenous advisory committees, he has championed the preservation of language and history through education. He has also been instrumental in identifying economic opportunities for his community. Under his leadership, the Membertou First Nation became the first Indigenous community in the world to be certified under the International Organization for Standardization, in recognition of its efficient and sustainable growth.

Gerald Pond, C.M., O.N.B.
Rothesay, New Brunswick

For more than 45 years, Gerald Pond has been a champion of entrepreneurship in the information and communications technology sector. As president of NBTel during a period of significant deregulation, he maintained the strength of the company through innovative customer service, ultimately making New Brunswick a leader in this field. His guidance and strategic counsel have aided numerous start-ups in Atlantic Canada to become success stories. As co-founder and chair of the Pond-Deshpande Centre at the University of New Brunswick, he tirelessly encourages emerging entrepreneurs and innovators to create sustainable, scalable enterprises.

Strinivasan Reddy, C.M., O.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Strini Reddy is devoted to the well-being of children. After experiencing racism and upheaval in his native South Africa, he taught in three other countries before settling in northern Manitoba. Throughout his 42-year career in education, he was known as an inspiring leader who spearheaded initiatives to address poverty, develop literacy skills in pre-schoolers and strengthen the community. Notably, he served as head of the council that developed the province's early childhood education policy and recently established a summer learning enrichment program for underprivileged children.

Jean Lucien Rouleau, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Renowned cardiologist, professor and researcher Jean Lucien Rouleau has made significant contributions to the development of cardiology in Canada. His work on the pathology of heart failure has had a significant impact on the prevention of heart diseases and has resulted in innovative treatments that are now widely used. He is also recognized as a high-calibre administrator and has served as, among other things, dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the Université de Montréal and director of the Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health at the Canadian Institutes for Health Research.

Isaac Schiff, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario and Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A.

Isaac Schiff  is a champion of women's health. A professor at Harvard's Medical School and chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Massachusetts General Hospital, he initiated the hospital's obstetrics program, in-vitro fertility program and division of urogynecology. Internationally regarded for his groundbreaking research in infertility and menopause, he has led several professional organizations and is the founder of the medical journal Menopause. In addition, he has been recognized for his mentorship, as well as for his initiatives to support and advance women in the field.

David Steinberg, C.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba and Bel-Air, California, U.S.A.

Over a five-decade-long career, David Steinberg has established himself as a leader in the entertainment industry as a comedian, director, producer and mentor. A household name in North America and a staple of comedy in the 1970s, he hosted and appeared in multiple programs, such as "The Tonight Show" with Johnny Carson. He has been an award-winning director on such shows as "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Friends," "Seinfeld" and many more. He has paved the way for the later successes of Canada's many comedians and brought laughter to the North American public.

Michael A. Walker, C.M.
Nanoose Bay, British Columbia

Co-founder and executive director of the Fraser Institute, Michael Walker has ensured that economic policy debate in Canada reflects a diversity of views. Under the Institute's motto, "If it matters, measure it", he introduced indicators that have enhanced policy discussions on taxation, hospital waiting lists, school report cards, fiscal performance and the Economic Freedom of the World index, which has been re-published worldwide. He has authored or edited 45 books, more than 700 newspaper articles and 2 000 radio commentaries.

William Price Wilder, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

William Wilder has been a pillar of Canada's business community for more than 50 years. A prominent figure in the resource and financial industries, he has held numerous leadership positions in these sectors, notably with Wood Gundy, the Canadian Arctic Gas Study Limited and Consumers Gas. In addition, he has contributed valuable corporate governance expertise as a board member of several prominent Canadian companies. His business acumen is matched by his philanthropic commitment to education and conservation initiatives.

ORDER OF CANADA BACKGROUNDER

Established in 1967 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Order of Canada is the cornerstone of the Canadian Honours System, and recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian society. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country.

Motto and Levels

The Order of Canada's motto is DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM ("They desire a better country"). Her Majesty The Queen is the Sovereign of the Order, and the governor general is the chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order.

Companion – Post-nominal: C.C.
recognizes national pre-eminence or international service or achievement;

Officer – Post-nominal: O.C.
recognizes national service or achievement; and

Member – Post-nominal: C.M.
recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level or in a special field of activity.

Insignia Description

The insignia of the Order is a stylized snowflake of six points, with a red annulus at its centre which bears a stylized maple leaf circumscribed with the motto of the Order, DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM ("They desire a better country"), surmounted by the Royal Crown. It is struck in fine silver and is composed of three individual pieces: the snowflake, annulus and maple leaf. The colour is added by hand through a unique application of opaque and translucent enamel.

The design of the insignia of the Order of Canada dates from 1967, and is credited to Bruce Beatty, C.M., S.O.M., C.D. The technical drawings used by the Royal Canadian Mint in this new generation of the insignia were developed by the Canadian Heraldic Authority at the Chancellery of Honours, part of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General. The insignia is manufactured by the Mint at its Ottawa facility.

Eligibility

All Canadians are eligible for the Order of Canada, with the exception of federal and provincial politicians and judges while in office. The Order's constitution permits non-Canadians to be considered for honorary appointments. Members of the Royal Family, governors general and their spouses are appointed in the extraordinary category. There are no posthumous appointments. 

Officers and Members may be elevated within the Order in recognition of further achievement, based on continued exceptional or extraordinary service to Canada. Usually, promotions are considered five years after the first appointment.

Nominations

Any person or group is welcome to nominate a deserving individual as a candidate for appointment to the Order of Canada. Appointments are made on the recommendations of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada, an independent council chaired by the chief justice of Canada. Members of the Advisory Council on the Order of Canada reflect the diversity and excellence in Canadian society. Certain members are appointed by virtue of their office; others are appointed for a fixed term to achieve a balanced representation of the various regions of the country.

For more information about the Order of Canada or to nominate someone,
visit www.gg.ca/honours.

SOURCE Governor General of Canada

Media information: Marie-Pierre Bélanger, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-998-9166, 613-852-3248 (cell), [email protected]