Media Advisory - Governor General to Invest 39 Recipients into the Order of Canada During a Ceremony at Rideau Hall Français
OTTAWA, May 6, 2019 /CNW/ - Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, will invest 3 Companions, 9 Officers and 27 Members into the Order of Canada during a ceremony at Rideau Hall, on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony will be streamed online at www.gg.ca/live.
About the Order of Canada
The Order of Canada is one of our country's highest civilian honours. Its Companions, Officers and Members take to heart the motto of the Order: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM ("They desire a better country").
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada 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. Those who bear the Order's iconic snowflake insignia have changed our nation's measure of success and, through the sum of their accomplishments, have helped us build a better Canada.
Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada. For more information about the Order of Canada or to nominate someone, visit www.gg.ca/en/honours.
A schedule for the investiture ceremony, the list of recipients with citations, and a backgrounder on the Order of Canada are attached.
CEREMONY SCHEDULE
Members of the media are asked to observe the following schedule:
10:00 a.m.: |
Media start to 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 |
|
11:45 a.m.: |
Interviews with recipients |
RECIPIENTS' CITATIONS
COMPANIONS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA
Roberta Lynn Bondar, C.C., O.Ont.
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
As a scientist and environmental advocate, Roberta Bondar continues to inspire Canadians. Following her pioneering spaceflight, she remained active in international space medicine, notably leading a research team at NASA that drew connections between astronauts' recovery from microgravity and neurological illnesses on Earth. A world-acclaimed photographer, she has demonstrated commitment to environmental sustainability through her stunning works that reconnect people to our natural world. Leading by example with the establishment of her eponymous foundation, she is a champion of education and the environment.
This is a promotion within the Order.
Angela Hewitt, C.C., O.B.E.
London, United Kingdom
One of the world's leading classical pianists, Angela Hewitt has mesmerized audiences around the globe with her polished technique and range of musical expression. Her acclaimed recordings and performances of the works of J. S. Bach have made her one of the composer's foremost interpreters of our time. She is in great demand as a recitalist, and performs with major orchestras in Europe, North and South America, Australia and Asia. Despite her demanding schedule, she is generous with her time, helping emerging artists and serving as the artistic director of the annual Trasimeno Music Festival in Italy.
This is a promotion within the Order
The Right Honorable Beverley McLachlin, P.C., C.C.
Ottawa, Ontario
Beverley McLachlin has had a prodigious impact on Canada's legal landscape. After practising law in Alberta and British Columbia, and teaching at the University of British Columbia, she served as a judge and chief justice there, before being appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada. As our longest-serving chief justice and the first woman in the role, she has presided over some of the nation's most important cases. Throughout her career, she has striven to ensure the primacy of the rule of law, and has promoted impartiality, equality and access to justice for all.
OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA
Jo-ann Archibald Q'um Q'um Xiiem, O.C.
Chilliwack, British Columbia
An esteemed scholar and member of the Soowahlie First Nation, Jo-ann Archibald Q'um Q'um Xiiem pioneered Indigenous education in Canada and abroad. Professor emerita at the University of British Columbia, she was the lead advisor on the committee that created the National Accord on Indigenous Education, which resulted in the integration of Indigenous knowledge in academia throughout Canada. A giant in her field, she is also involved in global Indigenous research and education, and is in demand as a speaker on Indigenous educational issues and opportunities.
The Honourable Perrin Beatty, P.C., O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario
Perrin Beatty has contributed to the development of our nation as a politician and corporate leader. Elected to Parliament at 22, he served as minister of seven major departments, including National Defence and External Affairs. Following his political career, he led the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, the latter of which he shepherded through a period of significant transition. Former chancellor of the University of Ontario Institute of Technology and current president of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, he continues to advocate for Canadian businesses.
Alain Bouchard, O.C., O.Q.
Laval, Quebec
With vision and determination, Alain Bouchard has risen to the top of Canada's convenience retail industry. As the founder of the Couche-Tard group, he grew his business in Quebec and expanded into international markets. In addition, the eponymous foundation that he established with his wife supports arts and culture initiatives and people living with an intellectual disability.
Sheila Fraser, O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario
Sheila Fraser has served our country with dedication and integrity. Through her work as auditor general of Canada, she is credited with bringing about significant policy changes within the federal government and enhancing public service accountability. A champion for transparency and compassion, she remains committed to the advancement of Indigenous issues and was invited to serve as an honorary witness to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. She also served on a number of provincial, national and international accounting and audit organizations.
Louie Kamookak, O.C., O.Nu. (posthumous)
Gjoa Haven, Nunavut
Louie Kamookak was a homegrown historian who traced the rich timeline of his Inuit ancestors. With patience and dedication, he captured the stories of the Elders in his community. His attentive listening and capable mapping skills led him across the tundra of King William Island and along the shores of Victoria Straight to discover several historical sites, most notably the shipwrecks of the Franklin Expedition. When not accompanying students, teachers and explorers in the Arctic, he shared the stories of his people with audiences from coast to coast to coast.
The Order of Canada insignia awarded to the late Mr. Louie Kamookak will be received by
Mrs. Josephine Kamookak.
Daniel Lamarre, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Daniel Lamarre has had a decisive impact on the communications and entertainment industries. Known for his vision and leadership, he transformed TVA Group from Quebec's largest private television network into a national network. As head of Cirque du Soleil, he continues to capture new markets, expanding the reach of this flagship Canadian company. His unwavering commitment to social responsibility and philanthropy has become an indelible part of Cirque du Soleil's culture and that of its partners. A strong advocate for education, health care and innovation, he is dedicated to numerous causes in his community.
Leroy Robert Little Bear, O.C., A.O.E.
Lethbridge, Alberta
Grounded in learning and wisdom, Leroy Little Bear champions Indigenous perspectives and traditions. A Blackfoot scholar, he advocates for Indigenous peoples' access to education, notably as the founder of pioneering native studies programs at the University of Lethbridge and Harvard University. More recently, he and his wife were instrumental in the signing of the Buffalo Treaty, which aims to revitalize Plains Indian culture. He also pushed for the recognition and protection of Indigenous rights by the United Nations and under the Canadian constitution. A beloved mentor, he has inspired generations of students.
Annette M. O'Connor, O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario
Annette O'Connor is empowering patients in the health care system. A professor at the University of Ottawa, she is an internationally recognized pioneer in shared decision making, an approach that facilitates patient engagement in their own treatment and care. A champion for knowledge exchange, she has ensured decision-making resources, many of which she created, are widely available online, and co-established an international academic forum in the field. Her research has informed the development of U.S. legislation, as well as health services and policies throughout North America, the United Kingdom and Australia.
The Honourable Ellen Irene Picard, O.C.
Edmonton, Alberta
Ellen Picard is a pioneer of health law in Canada. She was the first woman to be both a full-time member and associate dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Alberta. She established the internationally respected Health Law Institute and co-wrote the authoritative text on health law, Legal Liability of Doctors and Hospitals in Canada. Also a former judge of the Alberta Court of Appeal, she is known for her generosity of spirit, and has been a prominent mentor and role model for women entering the legal field.
MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA
Eva Aariak, C.M.
Iqaluit, Nunavut
Eva Aariak has dedicated her life to promoting Inuit culture and languages. She was Nunavut's inaugural language commissioner and made recommendations to the Nunavut Legislative Assembly that resulted in a groundbreaking law, the Inuktitut Protection Act. As the second territorial premier in Nunavut's history—and the first woman to serve in the role—she has worked tirelessly on Nunavut's poverty reduction strategy, among other notable projects. A renowned leader in northern Canada, she has successfully advocated for equity, gender equality and the involvement of women in politics.
Eli Bornstein, C.M., S.O.M.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Eli Bornstein is a painter-sculptor known for his large-scale works. He developed a unique artistic style referred to as structurist art and is renowned for his innovative exploration of colour and light. By founding The Structurist, an art journal highly regarded by the arts community, he was able to blend both art and science, inspiring numerous visual artists in Canada and abroad. Arising from his boundless creativity, his approach also sheds light on current environmental issues.
Robert Bothwell, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Robert Bothwell is recognized as a prominent expert in Canadian history and foreign policy. Professor at the University of Toronto, he was a key figure in the development of the school's international relations program, serving as director for 16 years. A respected voice in contemporary political economic and military history, he has published several books that have become staples in Canadian education. He has served numerous organizations, including the Ontario Heritage Foundation, the Canadian Museum of History and the C. D. Howe Foundation.
Doneta A. P. Brotchie, C.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Doneta Brotchie has had a considerable impact on the public and private sectors of Manitoba.
A trailblazer for women's rights, she actively promotes gender equality within the ranks of senior management. She broke down gender barriers in various organizations, notably the Hudson's Bay Company, CIBC and the Manitoba Club. She has also provided leadership for large-scale charitable campaigns by spearheading the installation of public artistic projects in Winnipeg. Deeply involved in her community, she is well respected for her volunteerism in a variety of fields, including the arts and health care.
The Honourable Beverley Busson, C.M., C.O.M., O.B.C.
North Okanagan Region, British Columbia
Beverley Busson has given a lifetime of service to her country. Renowned for her trailblazing career with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, she was the first woman to serve in the role of commissioner. Her commitment to the public safety of Canadians extends beyond her 33-year policing career. In her retirement, she has taken on multiple advisory roles in justice and protection initiatives, notably as a member of the Prime Minister's Advisory Council on National Security and the British Columbia Premier's Blue Ribbon Panel on Crime Reduction.
Shirley Cheechoo, C.M.
James Bay, Quebec
Filmmaker, actor and visual artist Shirley Cheechoo is, above all, a gifted storyteller. Throughout her multifaceted career she has drawn on her First Nations heritage and used art to explore themes of trauma, healing and identity. A revered mentor in Indigenous arts communities, she has promoted creative opportunities for fellow artists as the founder of both the De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre Company and the Weengushk Film Institute. As the first Indigenous person and woman to serve as chancellor of Brock University, she has shared her leadership and wisdom with new audiences.
John Conly, C.M.
Calgary, Alberta
John Conly is a pioneer in the areas of antimicrobial resistance and infection prevention and control. Professor at the University of Calgary, he has served on multiple committees to establish national guidelines that minimize the risk of transmission of hospital-acquired infections. Notably, he founded the Ward of the 21st Century, a multidisciplinary initiative focused on health care innovations designed to improve quality and safety in health care systems. A dedicated leader and mentor, he is sought after internationally for his expert advice and far-reaching influence.
Arthur Fogel, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario and Beverly Hills, California, United States of America
Arthur Fogel rose through the ranks of Canada's concert promotion business to become the most successful international tour producer in the world. As chair of Global Music and CEO of Global Touring at Live Nation Entertainment, he is credited with having created and developed the global touring industry—the barometer of success among today's recording artists. With creativity and keen business acumen, he has planned the most prolific and successful music tours for a long list of artists, including U2, Madonna, Lady Gaga and Sting.
The Honourable Ronald D. Ghitter, C.M.
Calgary, Alberta
Ron Ghitter is devoted to promoting Canadian values. A lawyer and politician, he introduced Alberta's first human rights legislation and co-founded the Dignity Foundation to promote tolerance and understanding in his province. He continued his efforts to advance social justice as a founding director of the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development and, later on, as a senator. His civic-mindedness has improved the well-being of his community, particularly in the areas of youth development, education, the eradication of family violence and the promotion of healthy living.
Blake Charles Goldring, C.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Toronto, Canada
A distinguished business leader, Blake Goldring is the executive chair of AGF Management, one of our country's top independent asset management firms. A seasoned philanthropist, he has rallied the business community to support multiple national and international causes in the arts, health care and education. A steadfast champion of Canada's military, he was appointed as the first honorary colonel of the Canadian Army and founded Canada Company, which supports past and present members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families, notably through the Scholarship Program for Children of the Fallen.
Beverley Kim Jacobs, C.M.
Ohsweken, Ontario
Beverley Jacobs is a champion for Indigenous rights. As the lead researcher of the pioneering Stolen Sisters report—an Amnesty International Canada initiative—she helped bring the stark reality of violence against Indigenous women and girls to public attention. Carrying on her work as president of the Native Women's Association, she secured significant funding for the research, education and policy initiative Sisters in Spirit. Her dedication to raising awareness of the plight of Indigenous women and girls is also reflected in her various academic appointments and her community involvement.
Jean Grand-Maître, C.M.
Calgary, Alberta
Choreographer Jean Grand-Maître is an inspiring advocate for the arts. Known as a generous mentor and an engaged member of Calgary's arts community, he has played an instrumental role in raising the province's profile as a leading cultural centre. Under his leadership as its artistic director, Alberta Ballet has flourished, performing everything from classical masterpieces to avant-garde works. The company's signature portrait series brings dance to a broader audience base by setting contemporary ballet to the music of such celebrated singer-songwriters as k.d. lang, Gordon Lightfoot, the Tragically Hip, Sarah McLachlan and Joni Mitchell.
Michael Higgins, C.M. and Paul John Higgins, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Michael and Paul John Higgins are renowned leaders and innovators in the food industry. Third-generation co-chairs of Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee, the brothers have expanded the business ninefold, distributing their products to every major retail grocery chain in North America. Respectful of the impacts of the industry on the environment, they launched the non-profit Water Wise Coffee project. Discreet philanthropists, they have supported various community and national initiatives, both personally and through their company, for several decades.
John Kirk Howard, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Kirk Howard has been an extraordinary leader and agent for change in the publishing industry. As founder of Dundurn Press, he has given a voice to Canadian authors and greatly increased public awareness of our country's history and heritage. Under his direction, Dundurn has evolved into a culturally significant and world-class company, and has expanded its range to include military history, politics and the arts. He was also instrumental in introducing e-book technology as the former president of the Association of Canadian Publishers.
Rebecca Jamieson, C.M., O.Ont.
Ohsweken, Ontario
Teacher-turned-administrator Rebecca Jamieson has dedicated her life to Indigenous education. President and CEO of Six Nations Polytechnic, she has fostered its growth by expanding its programs and facilities. Her involvement in numerous educational institutions has resulted in stronger cultural stewardship and advocacy for Indigenous communities. Through her governance, she has enhanced access and institutional stability of First Nations higher education throughout Ontario while emphasizing Indigenous heritage and knowledge.
K. Wayne Johnston, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Wayne Johnston is a foundational figure in vascular surgery. A professor at the University of Toronto and a surgeon at the Toronto General Hospital, he has refined the treatment and diagnosis of several vascular conditions, including abdominal aortic aneurysms. Notably, he led the landmark Multicentre Canadian Aneurysm Study, which was a reference mainstay for surgeons worldwide. A true innovator in the field, he spearheaded the establishment of vascular surgery as a subspecialty, creating its training and certification requirements with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Alan Latourelle, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario
Alan Latourelle's commitment to the promotion and conservation of our heritage places is unquestionable. As the head of Parks Canada, he was involved in the establishment of World Heritage sites, national parks and nature reserves all across the country, in collaboration with Indigenous peoples. His sustained efforts to instil pride, encourage innovation and promote the safeguarding of our country's iconic places are a great source of inspiration, particularly among Canadian youth.
Donald Gordon Lawson, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
With philanthropic vision and a commitment to volunteerism, Donald Lawson has been a pillar of his community for seven decades. At the helm of the Counselling Foundation of Canada, he led the expansion of the organization to include programs that support career counselors working with underserved populations such as at-risk youth and Indigenous peoples. He was also instrumental in revitalizing the Greater Toronto YMCA and implemented a new financial model that has been replicated in clubs across North America.
Jean-Pierre Léger, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec
Jean-Pierre Léger is an accomplished businessman who propelled a family business into becoming one of the most admired Quebec institutions in Canada. As the chair and CEO of the St-Hubert Group for more than 25 years, he offered nutritious menus and adopted rigorous environmental practices, all while consistently adapting to the needs of his clientele. As a philanthropist, he devotes his time and energy to several charitable and cultural causes, including the Fondation de Claire et Jean-Pierre Léger, the St-Hubert Foundation, the Festival de Lanaudière, and the Fondation Martin-Matte.
Kathleen Pearson, C.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Kit Pearson has brought wonder, delight and solace to children through her writing. As an acclaimed author of children's fiction, she has touched generations of readers through her balanced character depictions and simple yet powerful prose. Her work has both entertained and edified, often shedding light on points of Canadian history for youthful audiences. As passionate about reading and books as her fans, she has shared this love of reading with children through workshops and presentations across the country.
Marshall S. Pynkoski, C.M. and Jeanette Regula Lajeunesse Zingg, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Marshall Pynkoski and Jeannette Lajeunesse Zingg's performances and education programs have had a major impact on the Canadian music scene. Co-founders of the Opera Atelier, a baroque opera and ballet company, they have garnered national and international recognition for their highly collaborative productions, representing Canada at Milan's La Scala and at the Royal Opera in Versailles. Despite an extensive international touring schedule, the couple shares their passion for the arts by hosting free workshops in the community for inner-city youth and emerging artists.
Claudine Roy, C.M., C.Q.
Gaspé, Quebec
Claudine Roy inspires others with her passion for the Gaspé region. An entrepreneur of the restaurant and tourism industries and founder of Les Traversées de la Gaspésie, a unique kind of sport vacation, she is developing regional tourism and drawing tourists from across Canada and abroad. Through mentorship activities and by promoting women in business, she exerts a degree of influence well beyond her part of the country. She also shares her governance expertise with such organizations as Investissement Québec, the Association Restauration Québec and the board of the Ordre national du Québec.
Mark Thompson, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Mark Thompson has helped improve working conditions in Canada. Professor emeritus at the University of British Columbia's business school, he has advanced the field of industrial relations and is known as an expert in public-sector collective bargaining. A well-regarded arbitrator in labour-management disputes, he has been engaged in public discussions related to labour issues, employment standards, workplace health and safety, and the legal frameworks governing negotiations. His work has played an important part in influencing public policy in Canada.
David Toycen, C.M., O. Ont.
Mississauga, Ontario
David Toycen is a prominent figure in the fields of humanitarian relief, international development and advocacy. During his tenure as president and CEO of World Vision Canada, he expanded the organization's influence and impact to include significant outreach and public policy work. Thanks to his efforts, billions of dollars have been raised to help improve the lives of millions of children and adults across the globe, spreading the compassion and the generosity that are hallmarks of our country's reputation.
Elizabeth Hillman Waterston, C.M., O. Ont.
London, Ontario
Elizabeth Waterston is recognized as one of Canada's most respected specialists in literature. She has shed light on a range of literary styles not previously studied in Canadian universities, notably women's and children's literature, and texts on historical travel. Professor emerita at the University of Guelph, she also taught at Concordia and Western universities over the course of her distinguished 70-year career. Her prolific work encompasses research on Lucy Maud Montgomery as well as foundational literary and history resources for academics. Her commitment to community and her mentorship of fellow writers is equally far-reaching.
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.
Media interested in covering the ceremony are asked to confirm their attendance with the
Rideau Hall Press Office and to arrive at the Princess Anne Entrance no later than
10:15 a.m. on the day of the ceremony.
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SOURCE Governor General of Canada
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Media information: Charles Anido, Rideau Hall Press Office, 343-548-1784 (cell), [email protected]
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