OTTAWA, Dec. 6, 2016 /CNW/ - His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will present honours during a ceremony on Thursday, December 8, 2016, at 10 a.m. (MST) at the Shaw Conference Centre, in Edmonton, Alberta.
More than 70 remarkable Canadians will be recognized for their excellence, courage or exceptional dedication to service with one of the following honours: the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, the Meritorious Service Decoration, the Decoration for Bravery, the Polar Medal or the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers. The ceremony will be streamed live online at www.gg.ca/live starting at 10 a.m.
The Governor General presents honours on behalf of all Canadians in communities across the country to help share inspiring stories, celebrate tremendous contributions to our society and connect with Canadians. From community volunteers to astronauts, from actors to members of the military, from scholars to everyday citizens, hundreds of Canadians earn our applause and gratitude. For more information about honours or to nominate someone who inspires you, visit www.gg.ca/honours.
A media schedule for the ceremony, background information on the honours being presented in Edmonton (Annex A) and a list of recipients and their citations (Annex B) are attached.
Media wishing to cover this event are asked to confirm their attendance with the
Rideau Hall Press Office, and must arrive at the Shaw Conference Centre's Hall D
no later than 9:45 a.m.
| CEREMONY SCHEDULE |
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| Media are asked to observe the following schedule: |
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| 9 a.m.: |
Media start to arrive at the Shaw Conference Centre |
| 10 a.m.: |
Ceremony begins |
| The Lieutenant Governor of Alberta offers welcoming remarks |
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| The Governor General speaks |
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| The Governor General presents the honours |
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| 11:30 a.m.: |
Interviews with recipients |
| Please note that the information in this news release reflects the rank of the recipients at the time of the event for which they are being recognized. |
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ANNEX A
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON CANADIAN HONOURS
About the Order of Merit of the Police Forces
Established in October 2000, the Order of Merit of the Police Forces honours the leadership and exceptional service or distinctive merit displayed by the men and women of the Canadian police services, and recognizes their commitment to this country. The primary focus is on exceptional merit, contributions to policing and community development. There are three categories of membership: Commander, Officer and Member.
About the Decorations for Bravery
Created in 1972, the Decorations for Bravery recognize people who risk their lives and choose to defy their own instinct of survival to try to save a loved one or a perfect stranger whose life is in immediate danger. The three levels of the Decorations for Bravery reflect the degree to which the recipients put themselves at risk: the Cross of Valour recognizes acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril; the Star of Courage recognizes acts of conspicuous courage in circumstances of great peril; and the Medal of Bravery recognizes acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.
About the Meritorious Service Decorations
The Meritorious Service Decorations celebrate Canadians who have performed an exceptional deed or activity that brings honour to Canada. The decorations are separated into military and civil divisions, with two levels each: a cross and a medal.
The Military Division recognizes a military deed or activity that has been performed in a highly professional manner or of a very high standard that brings benefit or honour to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.
The Civil Division recognizes remarkable contributions in many different fields of endeavour, from advocacy initiatives and health care services, to research and humanitarian efforts. The contributions can be innovative, set an example for others to follow, or improve the quality of life of a community. For more information or to nominate a deserving Canadian, visit merit.gg.ca.
About the Polar Medal
The Polar Medal celebrates Canada's northern heritage and recognizes persons who render extraordinary services in the polar regions and in Canada's North. As an official honour created by the Crown, the Polar Medal incorporated and replaced the Governor General's Northern Medal, created in 2005 by then-Governor General the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson.
About the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers
The Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers recognizes the exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians from across the country in a wide range of fields. As an official Canadian honour, the Medal for Volunteers incorporates and replaces the Governor General's Caring Canadian Award. The Medal builds on the legacy and spirit of the Caring Canadian Award by honouring the dedication and commitment of volunteers. For more information or to nominate a deserving volunteer, visit caring.gg.ca.
ANNEX B
RECIPIENTS AND CITATIONS
ORDER OF MERIT OF THE POLICE FORCES
Sergeant Howard James Burns, M.O.M.
Calgary, Alberta
Member of the Merit of the Police Forces
For his achievements in policing, for his contributions to fostering relationships between police agencies and the wider community, and for his support for other serving members.
Chief Constable Wayne Douglas Holland, M.O.M.
Coquitlam, British Columbia
Member of the Merit of the Police Forces
For his achievements combatting organized and automotive crime through the Vancouver Police Department, and for his engaged leadership of the Nelson Police Department.
Inspector Daniel W. Ritchie, M.O.M.
Surrey, British Columbia
Member of the Merit of the Police Forces
For his impact on communities from Ontario to British Columbia as a member of the CN Police Service; for instructing recruits; and for introducing proactive trespass campaigns that have seen a significant reduction in accidents and deaths on railway property.
RCMP Superintendent Wayne Alexander Sutherland, M.O.M.
Surrey, British Columbia
Member of the Merit of the Police Forces
For his administrative acumen that has led the RCMP 'E' Division forward effectively and efficiently; for garnering co-operation from the communities; and for overseeing the career development of his subordinates.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS
Robert Edward Burrell, M.S.C.
Sherwood Park, Alberta
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
Dr. Robert Edward Burrell developed the world's first therapeutic medical application of nanotechnology: Acticoat, an antimicrobial barrier used to treat burns. Using nano-crystalline silver, these dressings have dramatically improved survival rates and recovery times for patients in burn units across the globe. This innovative technology is now being tested for use in other life-saving applications.
Carolyn Mitchell Hamilton Pennycook Cross, M.S.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
As the chair and chief executive officer of Ondine Biomedical Inc., Carolyn Cross has spurred the company to become a global leader in the field of photodisinfection, a new technology that uses light to eradicate harmful micro-organisms. This innovative technology is being used to treat periodontal disease, infected wounds and burns, and HIV transmission from mother to fetus, without accelerating the risks of antibiotic resistance seen in traditional approaches.
Philip J. Currie, A.O.E., M.S.C.
Edmonton, Alberta
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
An innovator in paleontology, Philip Currie pioneered the use of CT scanners to generate three-dimensional models of fossil specimens to study the biomechanics, growth and physiology of dinosaurs. Through his work, he has significantly contributed to the profile of paleontological research in Canada, and has brought the study of fossils into the national and international spotlight.
Jeneece Edroff, O.B.C., M.S.C.
Victoria, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
Jeneece Edroff has been called "a fundraising phenom" despite the challenges she faces due to a debilitating genetic disease. When she was seven years old, she held a penny drive that inspired a province-wide campaign that has since raised over $1.5 million to help kids with special needs. Her dream of a home away from home for families of children receiving medical care in Victoria has become a reality in Jeneece Place, thanks to her courage and dedication.
Thomas H. Greidanus, M.S.C.
Edmonton, Alberta
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
Orthopaedic surgeon Thomas Greidanus leads, organizes and raises funds for Operation Esperanza. He and his team travel to Ecuador yearly to perform corrective surgery on children with club feet, and hip and knee replacements on adults, all free of charge. The team also provides training to local doctors. This life-changing medical care allows patients who were previously unemployable to find work and support their families.
Norman J. Rolston, O.B.C., M.S.C., C.D.
Langley, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Cross (Civil Division)
Norman Rolston invented his Able Walker in 1986 to help his aunt, whose mobility was limited by arthritis. After witnessing the health benefits of this innovative walker, Mr. Rolston chose not to patent his invention so that it could be freely copied at need. He also donated many models to organizations assisting people with disabilities. Thanks to him, the Able Walker has restored independence and mobility to many people and improved their quality of life.
Miles Leland Anderson, M.S.M.
Sherilee Ann Anderson, M.S.M.
Fir Mountain, Saskatchewan
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Cattle ranchers Miles and Sheri Anderson have helped to protect the 16 wildlife species at risk who call their Saskatchewan acreage home. After studying the nesting habits of the greater sage grouse, they adapted their cattle grazing patterns, which yielded a significant growth in the population of this endangered Prairie bird. By collaborating with biologists and government agencies, and setting a positive example among those in the ranching community, they have spread the notion that good management of the grasslands is beneficial to both wildlife and livestock.
RCMP Constable Kimberly Anne Ashford, M.B., M.S.M. (Retired)
Vancouver, British Columbia
RCMP Corporal Darrel Vincent Gyorfi, M.S.M. (Retired)
Nanaimo, British Columbia
Leo Kwan Yue Ma, M.S.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
RCMP Sergeant John Brian MacDonald, M.S.M.
Langley, British Columbia
RCMP Constable William Yun-Ming Ng, M.S.M.
Surrey, British Columbia
RCMP Constable Rico Tze Leung Wong, M.S.M. (Retired)
Vancouver, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
In 2000, constables Ashford, Ng and Wong, Corporal Gyorfi, Sergeant MacDonald, and civilian member Ma represented the RCMP within an international law enforcement team tracking heroin traffickers in Fiji. Their successful covert operation led to the capture of seven traffickers and the seizure of 350 kilograms of heroin destined for Canadian markets. Equally impressive, these members undertook their work during a political coup and in a hostile environment at great peril to themselves.
The Meritorious Service Medal awarded to Constable Wong will be presented to him at a later date.
Ruby Dunstan, M.S.M.
Lytton, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
A proud member of the Nlaka'pamux First Nation, environmentalist Ruby Dunstan was determined to protect her nation's traditional lands in the Stein River Valley from industrial logging. Working with government and industry partners over many years, she successfully established the Stein Valley Nlaka'pamux Heritage Provincial Park in 1995, safeguarding these lands for future generations.
Nicole Edwards, M.S.M.
Whitehorse, Yukon
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Musician Nicole Edwards was the creative force and founding executive director of Bringing Youth Towards Equality, now known as BYTE–Empowering Youth. Operating in Yukon and in other northern communities, and based on input from young people themselves, BYTE provides recreational activities and interactive workshops on a broad range of topics including leadership, career planning, healthy relationships, and the impact of climate change on the North.
Matthew Hill, M.S.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Stephanie Tait, M.S.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Matt Hill and Stephanie Tait created Run for One Planet to inspire environmental action and encourage sustainable living. To raise funds for environmental sustainability projects, the pair ran from Vancouver to St. John's, down to Florida and across to California before returning to Vancouver. Throughout, they stopped to speak to school children, motivating them to be conscious of the environment.
Carin Lee Holroyd, M.S.M.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
After learning about the dismal conditions students face in some rural Vietnamese schools, Carin Lee Holroyd established the Vietnam Education Society, an organization that raises funds to construct new schools, supply school lunches and provide scholarships for girls at risk of human trafficking. In the last decade, four new schools, two early childhood development centres, a new library and a multi-purpose community building have improved the educational opportunities for thousands of children.
Kenneth Hubbard, M.S.M.
Red Deer County, Alberta
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Veterinarian Kenneth Hubbard has been integral to the success of the RCMP Police Dog Breeding Program. He fostered its dramatic expansion by employing innovative breeding techniques and building strategic partnerships with other agencies. The program now provides pups to RCMP handlers and other police forces across the country. Once trained, the dogs go on to assist with investigating crimes and security threats.
Candice Lys, M.S.M.
Nancy Elizabeth MacNeill, M.S.M.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Northerners Candice Lys and Nancy MacNeill co-founded Fostering Open eXpression among Youth (FOXY). Through life-changing workshops and peer leader retreats, they have empowered youth and especially girls in the Northwest Territories to freely express their sexual health and relationship challenges, acquire new skills to make healthy life choices, and share lessons learned with their communities. Thanks to FOXY, youth play an active role in building stronger communities in the North.
Wendy Morton, M.S.M.
Sooke, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Wendy Morton is a believer in the power of poetry to make our society better. She works with Indigenous students, training them to be poets so they can retell and preserve their Elders' stories as poems. She was also a founder of Random Acts of Poetry Day, which sees poets take to the streets and to schools across the country, sharing poems with anyone who crosses their path.
Stephen E. Rapanos, M.S.M.
Edmonton, Alberta
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Edmonton Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Chief Stephen Rapanos rallied EMS chiefs from across the country to create the Paramedic Chiefs of Canada. The organization promotes paramedics as health care providers, shares best practices and standardizes training programs to ensure Canadians receive consistent, high-quality urgent care.
John Ferguson Ronald, M.S.M. (posthumous)
Victoria, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Wishing to give back to his community, the late John Ferguson Ronald led the creation of Our Place Society, which consolidated two organizations helping Victoria's disadvantaged citizens. Under his leadership, a new five-storey facility was constructed to offer transitional housing, some 1 200 meals per day, hot showers and free clothing. His legacy lives on in the quality counselling, outreach and skills training programs offered by the organization.
The Meritorious Service Medal awarded to the late John F. Ronald will be presented to his spouse, Mrs. Lillian Ronald.
Gregory C. Van Tighem, M.S.M.
Jasper, Alberta
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Jasper Fire Chief Greg Van Tighem rides his bike to raise money and awareness for the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society of Canada. His solo, unassisted journeys have taken him from Arizona to Jasper, from Haida Gwaii to Winnipeg—in winter, on a "fat bike" equipped with wide tires—and through Yukon to Inuvik along the Dempster Highway, a route only passable when the tundra is frozen. The hardship endured by people living with MS has inspired his drive to help find a cure.
Ralph Barclay Young, M.S.M.
Edmonton, Alberta
Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division)
Ralph Barclay Young demonstrated exceptional leadership serving as chair of Edmonton's Centennial Celebration Committee in 2014. He ensured Edmontonians could participate in legacy projects including an awards ceremony, a school program, and the publishing of two books. His efforts culminated in the unveiling of a revitalized Sir Winston Churchill Square, a venue for Edmonton's thriving festival community to showcase its talent for many years to come.
Sergeant Shaun Edward Delamere, M.S.M., C.D.
Calgary, Alberta
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
As acting 4 Wing Construction Engineering Production Superintendent from May to August 2012—a master warrant officer position—Sergeant Delamere provided exceptional infrastructure support to national exercises while maintaining construction engineering support to ongoing Wing operations. Through astute intra-departmental engagements and outstanding leadership, he played a critical role in planning and executing five significant construction projects, which have provided lasting capabilities in support of vital activities. Sergeant Delamere's actions brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.
Lieutenant-Colonel David Charles Moar, M.S.M., C.D.
Cold Lake, Alberta
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From October 2014 to April 2015, Lieutenant-Colonel Moar performed remarkably as fighter detachment commander within Air Task Force–Iraq in Kuwait. His outstanding leadership enabled Canadian fighter aircraft to begin combat missions within 36 hours of arriving in theatre. Moreover, his tireless efforts to improve and sustain operations enabled impressive sortie launch reliability. Lieutenant-Colonel Moar's accomplishments greatly contributed to Canada being recognized as an effective and reliable coalition nation in the fight against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.
DECORATIONS FOR BRAVERY
Michael Devine, M.B.
West Vancouver, British Columbia
Buddy Harwood, M.B.
Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
Daniel Jordan Ross, M.B.
Whistler, British Columbia
Medal of Bravery
On June 7, 2014, Michael Devine, Buddy Harwood and Daniel Ross rescued five people who were trapped in a burning vehicle near Whistler, British Columbia. While Mr. Ross used a fire extinguisher to smother the flames, Messrs. Devine and Harwood used a rock to break the driver's side window to pull the passengers out from the front seat. Undeterred by the blaze, the men evacuated the remaining passengers from the rear seat and, with the help of bystanders, brought them a safe distance away. Sadly, one of the victims did not survive.
Helen Ann Goulet, M.B.
Courtenay, British Columbia
Medal of Bravery
On January 25, 2015, Helen Goulet rescued her elderly neighbour from her burning house in Courtenay, British Columbia. Upon hearing the victim's cries for help, Ms. Goulet ignored the billowing smoke and entered the dwelling to search for her friend. She followed the woman's voice and located her lying on the kitchen floor. Despite the burns she sustained to her head and arms, she managed to pull the victim outside to safety.
John Fawcett Vernon Hewitt, M.B.
Brandon, Manitoba
Dale Gary Woloshyn, M.B.
Swan River, Manitoba
Medal of Bravery
On October 3, 2014, John Hewitt and Dale Woloshyn came to the assistance of three people involved in a car crash near Kemnay, Manitoba. Finding the first victim unconscious in his burning car, Messrs. Hewitt and Woloshyn bent the passenger-side door frame to remove the man as flames completely engulfed the vehicle. Hearing cries from the second vehicle, the two men rushed to the wreck, where they found a woman trapped with her child. Mr. Hewitt smashed the back windshield, crawled inside the car and helped both victims to safety.
Arliss Jackson, M.B.
Calmar, Alberta
Adam Tarnowski, M.B.
Onoway, Alberta
Medal of Bravery
On July 7, 2015, Arliss Jackson and Adam Tarnowski rescued an injured man from a burning vehicle on Highway 770, near Stony Plain, Alberta. The victim's truck had collided with a minivan, rolled into the ditch and caught fire, with the man's legs trapped under the dash. Messrs. Jackson and Tarnowski, who were driving by the scene, stopped their vehicles and rushed to assist. With Mr. Jackson's help, Mr. Tarnowski bent the window frame with his bare hands until he could free the victim's legs. Together, the two men pulled the driver out of the vehicle and, with the help of bystanders, carried him to safety moments before the truck was completely engulfed. Sadly, the driver of the minivan could not be rescued.
Tyrone Josdal, M.B.
Bulyea, Saskatchewan
Medal of Bravery
On January 24, 2014, Tyrone Josdal rescued a man from his burning car near Craven, Saskatchewan. Arriving just moments after the collision, Mr. Josdal went to the driver's side door, but the heavy smoke made it difficult to see inside. Hearing a noise from beneath the airbag, he found the victim, pulled him out and brought him to safety before the car exploded.
Randon Angus Joseyounen, M.B.
Wollaston Lake, Saskatchewan
Medal of Bravery
In the early morning hours of June 22, 2011, Randon Joseyounen rescued a man from a possible drowning in the icy waters of Wollaston Lake, near the Hatchet Lake First Nation, Saskatchewan. During a high school graduation party, the victim fell into the lake and panicked, as he could not swim. Witness to the scene, Mr. Joseyounen dove into the water to reach the terrified man who had drifted far from the shore. At risk of hypothermia and without any lifesaving device, Mr. Joseyounen pushed the victim back to shore, where a bystander helped them both out of the water.
Chelsea Little, M.B.
Fort McMurray, Alberta
Medal of Bravery
On August 11, 2014, then-15-year-old Chelsea Little rescued two people from a possible drowning in Thoburn Lake, near Clarenville, Newfoundland and Labrador. Ms. Little was swimming across the lake with members of her family when she realized that her stepfather was lagging behind and experiencing breathing problems. Chelsea swam back to him and dragged him back to shore just in time to see her uncle in distress before he disappeared beneath the surface. Despite her fatigue, Chelsea dove to reach his side and swam back to shore with him in tow.
Tyrell Neufeld, M.B.
High Level, Alberta
Medal of Bravery
On July 23, 2014, Tyrell Neufeld rescued a co-worker who was being attacked by a black bear in a remote area near Zama City, Alberta. The duo was inspecting an oilfield site when the huge bear approached. Despite the victim's attempts to scare it off, the wild animal attacked. Alerted to the scene by the noise, Mr. Neufeld tried to divert the bear's attention away from the victim. In response, the beast turned on him and bit him on the arm. Mr. Neufeld managed to spray the bear in the face, forcing it to flee, before he returned to the victim and brought her to safety.
Terry James Palaschak, M.B.
Val Marie and Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
Medal of Bravery
On July 4, 2012, Terry Palaschak rescued an injured man from a burning vehicle near Val Marie, Saskatchewan. A single-vehicle rollover resulted in the driver being trapped inside the car, which had caught fire. Mr. Palaschak struggled in the clouds of toxic smoke and tried in vain to put out the flames. He then broke the rear window and helped the victim crawl out. Sadly, the victim later succumbed to his injuries.
Guy Hawk, M.B.
Agassiz, British Columbia
Randolph Schwindt, M.B.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Medal of Bravery
On November 21, 2009, Guy Hawk and Randy Schwindt entered a burning mobile home to try and rescue an unconscious woman in Agassiz, British Columbia. They forced open the front door and crawled several metres through the thick smoke and intensifying flames to reach the woman. Despite the heat and debris falling from the ceiling, they managed to grab the victim by the feet and pull her outside. Sadly, she did not survive.
The Medal of Bravery awarded to Mr. Hawk was presented to him at a previous ceremony.
POLAR MEDAL
Elisapi Aningmiuq
Iqaluit, Nunavut
As a cultural teacher and counsellor, Elisapi Aningmiuq has developed key initiatives at the Tukisigiarvik Wellness Centre including physical health and wellness programs, food programs, suicide intervention and counselling sessions. She has been a strong advocate for rebuilding Inuit culture and identity, and has accordingly dedicated herself to preserving traditional skills and knowledge.
David Hik
Edmonton, Alberta
David Hik has been instrumental in fostering international collaboration on Arctic issues and the development of extensive research networks. Through his sustained and innovative work on understanding tundra ecosystems in the Arctic and alpine environments, he has greatly contributed to strengthening Canada's research presence in the North.
Marilyn Jensen
Whitehorse, Yukon
Marilyn Jensen provides pathways to foster healing and reclaim Tlingit culture and values within the community of the Carcross/Tagish First Nation. As the founder and group leader of the Dakhká Khwáan Dancers, Ms. Jensen has made significant contributions to cultural revitalization through the traditional art forms of song, drumming, dance and storytelling.
Robie Macdonald
Victoria, British Columbia
An adjunct professor of environment, earth and resources at the Centre for Earth Observation Science at the University of Manitoba, Robie Macdonald is an internationally respected geochemist. Published in over 170 peer-reviewed journal articles, his innovative interdisciplinary research on the Arctic Ocean has examined sources of organic carbon using biomarkers as well as the interaction between sea ice and runoff in arctic coastal systems.
Lieutenant Cecil Francis May, C.D.
Arctic Bay, Nunavut
As the commanding officer of the 3045 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps in Arctic Bay, Nunavut, Lieutenant Francis May has displayed exemplary dedication, superior effort and professionalism in delivering a highly effective training program that focuses on physical fitness activities including sports, marksmanship and biathlon competitions. His tireless leadership has positively inspired the community and resulted in strengthening civic-mindedness and northern traditions among the youth entrusted to his care.
Peter Suedfeld
Vancouver, British Columbia
Professor emeritus of psychology at the University of British Columbia, Peter Suedfeld has conducted field research in both polar regions. Principally interested in understanding both the pathogenic and salutogenic psychological effects associated with isolation in polar stations, he has provided key insights into the leadership styles and personality characteristics of individuals who thrive in such extreme conditions.
SOVEREIGN'S MEDAL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Val Boorse
Whitehorse, Yukon
For the past 25 years, Val Boorse has volunteered his time installing Line of Life machines in homes throughout his community. Through his compassionate work, he has provided security and peace of mind to seniors, allowing them to live independently in their own homes.
David Brewer
North Vancouver, British Columbia
David Brewer has dedicated over 50 years of his life to helping others as a search and rescue volunteer with the North Shore Rescue, which he founded in 1965. His dedication has saved countless lives, and he continues to pass on his knowledge through the weekly training sessions he holds.
Robert Chochinov
Anola, Manitoba
Robert Chochinov has been involved with the Canadian Red Cross for close to four decades, encouraging emergency preparedness in the community and supporting disaster response in Manitoba. From providing personal assistance to individuals affected by the 2016 Alberta wildfires to welcoming Syrian refugees to British Columbia, he has shown great enthusiasm through his volunteer work.
Dixie Lea Fenwick
Calgary, Alberta
A disaster management volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross for over 15 years, Dixie Lea Fenwick has been instrumental in the response to large-scale disasters, namely the 2016 Alberta fires. She put her wealth of experience and tireless dedication to good use by supporting the evacuees of Fort McMurray as well as mentoring other volunteers and caseworkers.
Sally Fergusson
Vancouver, British Columbia
For the past 18 years, Sally Fergusson has helped young students improve their literacy skills at Sir Alexander Mackenzie Elementary School. She is the longest-serving volunteer in the One to One Literacy program, where she has guided close to 100 children to become better students by helping them build their skills and gain confidence in themselves.
Paula Green
Regina, Saskatchewan
A social worker by trade, Paula Green has used her skills and knowledge to assist those who need help the most, particularly by helping with the Canadian Red Cross during the 2015 Saskatchewan wildfires, the 2016 Syrian refugee response and the 2016 Alberta fires. Her sustained efforts over the past 10 years have assisted and supported many displaced families.
Robert Thomas Hamson
Winnipeg, Manitoba
A stellar volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross for more than 15 years, Tom Hamson worked with the Manitoba Emergency Command Center during the 2011 floods and, most recently, during the Alberta fires and tornado evacuation in 2016. He is highly valued for his ability to mentor and offer compassion to the most vulnerable; he was instrumental in setting up a call centre to facilitate the Syrian refugee coordination efforts.
Jen Hayward
Iqaluit, Nunavut
Having founded the Niqinik Nuatsivik Nunavut Food Bank in 2001, Jen Hayward, along with the many volunteers she leads, has helped ensure food security in Iqaluit, while respecting the traditional Inuit principle of sharing. She also serves her community through her involvement with Habitat for Humanity and the RCMP DARE Program.
Don Krogseth
West Vancouver, British Columbia
With a passion to protect the natural environment, Don Krogseth joined the Nature Trust of British Columbia nearly 20 years ago. Among his many achievements, he successfully acquired a 10 000-acre Hoodoos property in the Kootenays and was a key player in getting a seven-kilometre corridor along the Englishman River designated as a conservation area.
Bob Lanman
Sherwood Park, Alberta
Along with his guide dog Harris, Bob Lanman has been volunteering at the Good Samaritan Society continuing care centre for nearly 10 years. He hosts weekly educational seminars and helps individual residents document their life stories to share with their friends and families.
Françoise Lavoie
St-Isidore, Alberta
Françoise Lavoie has been volunteering for the cultural centre, the Carnaval de St-Isidore and her parish for 35 years. In 1978 she co-founded the folkloric dance troupe Plein Soleil, of which she is still a member; she also sits on the board of the Association canadienne-française de l'Alberta régionale de Rivière-la-Paix.
Stephen McPhee
Airdrie, Alberta
Stephen McPhee is dedicated to eradicating homelessness among children. In 2006, he created the Stephen's Backpacks Society, a charity that provides homeless youth with backpacks containing school supplies, toiletries, toys and other useful items. The Society also advocates on behalf of the disadvantaged and raises public awareness about issues relating to poverty.
Luketa M'Pindou
Edmonton, Alberta
Luketa M'Pindou is a tireless volunteer in Edmonton's Francophone immigrant community, where he has championed education, social reintegration and immigration issues. His work with multiple organizations has helped defend and promote the rights and interests of Francophone and Acadian minority groups across Alberta and Canada.
Dennis Robertson
Kamloops, British Columbia
Dennis Robertson has volunteered with the Post Polio Awareness and Support Society of BC and the local branch of the Canadian Cancer Society since 1980. He also visits schools with his service dog, Crackers, to talk to children about the important role animals play in assisting people with disabilities.
Emmanuel Javier Sanchez
Regina, Saskatchewan
Emmanuel Sanchez, a Grade 12 student at Harvest City Christian Academy, has, over the past three years, helped improve his community and raise funds through bottle drives, car washes, snow shovelling, penny drives and fundraising suppers. Some of the recipients of his generosity include the typhoon-stricken residents of the Philippines, Regina's food banks and a community outreach program for the homeless.
Virginia Saunders
Surrey, British Columbia
For nearly 30 years, Virginia Saunders has volunteered with the Historic Stewart Farm in Surrey, British Columbia, as a docent, tour guide, and member of both the board and the special events team. She has played an integral role in the museum's success by introducing various themed tours and projects, such as the Girl Guide Heritage Badge and the bean bag event, showing her passion for preserving and promoting local history.
Jim White
Knutsford, British Columbia
For over 15 years, Jim White has volunteered with the Grasslands Conservation Council of British Columbia. Working alongside First Nations, government departments and other stakeholders, he has ensured the protection of an additional 1 397 hectares at the Dewdrop-Rosseau Creek Wildlife Management Area. He has been instrumental in bringing awareness to the issue of grassland preservation.
Tiffani Wong
Vancouver, British Columbia and Hong Kong, China
While she was living in Hong Kong, Tiffani Wong was an active member of the 1st Hong Kong Canadian Scout Group and president of the Canadian International School of Hong Kong's Amnesty International Club. She also volunteered with the YMCA of Hong Kong for two years, where she helped coordinate overnight camping experiences for children.
SOURCE Governor General of Canada
Media information: Marie-Pierre Bélanger, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-998-9166 (office), 613-852-3248 (cell), [email protected]
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