MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA (Courtesy of the Governor General of Canada www.gg.ca)
Georges A. Arès, C.M.
Edmonton, Alberta
Member of the Order of Canada
Georges Arès is known as a champion of the French language in his province and in Canada. Having held leadership positions within various organizations, he notably served as president of the Association canadienne-française de l’Alberta. He helped to establish the first publicly funded Francophone school and played a major role in securing the right for Franco-Albertans to manage their own schools. He was also a strong voice for Francophones in Western Canada during the review of the Official Languages Act. Moreover, as president of the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada, he worked to strengthen ties between Francophone and Acadian communities and other segments of our society, including First Nations, Quebeckers and ethnocultural communities.
Michel G. Bergeron, C.M., O.Q.
Québec, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
An eminent infectious disease specialist, Michel Bergeron has made significant contributions to the advancement and development of microbiology in Canada and internationally. Among his accomplishments, he perfected and marketed ultra-fast molecular diagnostic testing, which allows microbes to be detected in less than an hour, as opposed to days when using traditional methods. A professor at Université Laval, he is also the director and founder of the Infectious Disease Research Centre, which has become one of the leading centres of its kind in North America. He is a mentor and role model for young scientists, while his discoveries guide how infections are treated and save numerous lives.
Bernard Blishen, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
As one of the leading sociologists of his time, Bernard Blishen was instrumental in advancing sociology as an academic discipline in Canada. Professor emeritus at York University, he taught at several universities and was responsible for the development of a socio-economic index, now widely known as the “Blishen Scale.” Among his many achievements, he was research director for the Royal Commission on Health Services that, in 1964, provided a plan for the national medicare program. He later played a key role in the development of the sociology of medicine.
W. Edmund Clark, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
A long-time public administrator and banker, W. Edmund Clark has contributed to policy development in both the public and private sectors. Currently president and chief executive officer of TD Bank Group, he has held executive positions with the Government of Canada and with various financial institutions. In addition to his professional responsibilities, he has been steadfast in his determination to improve the quality of life of those less fortunate through his voluntary and philanthropic endeavours with an array of organizations, including Woodgreen Community Services and Habitat for Humanity.
Stephen Clarkson, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
A pre-eminent political economist and writer, Stephen Clarkson has contributed to the scholarly understanding of Canada’s place in the world. His focus has been on North America’s economic and political integration under trade liberalization and the war on terror. His extensive publications also include an award-winning biography of Pierre Elliott Trudeau. Professor at the University of Toronto, he also lectures and teaches in Latin America, Asia and Europe. Known for his ability to clarify complex realities, he is a sought-after commentator on national and international affairs.
The Honourable Erminie J. Cohen, C.M.
Saint John, New Brunswick
Member of the Order of Canada
With commitment and passion, Erminie Cohen has dedicated herself to improving the lives of women, children and the impoverished. As a volunteer and activist in New Brunswick, she was instrumental in increasing the number of children adopted out of the province’s care system, and played a key role in founding a local shelter for abused women and their children. She has also championed the eradication of poverty regionally and nationally, most notably as a senator, challenging the public and private sectors to work together to help reduce poverty in Canada. She continues to be an inspiration for her dedication to community service in New Brunswick.
Phil Comeau, C.M.
Saulnierville, Nova Scotia and Montréal, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
One of the most prolific Acadian filmmakers, Phil Comeau has brought his community to the wider world through his films and television series. This director and screenwriter has filmed productions in every province across Canada and in some 20 countries, including more than 30 productions on Acadia. He created the first Acadian comedy, Les gossipeuses; the first independent Acadian feature film, Le secret de Jérôme; and the television series “La Sagouine.” Renowned throughout cinematic circles, he has received numerous awards in North America and Europe, and has been a member of a number of film festival juries in Canada and abroad.
Abraham (Braam) de Klerk, C.M.
Victoria, British Columbia and Inuvik, Northwest Territories
Member of the Order of Canada
A dedicated physician and teacher, Braam de Klerk is an advocate for Canada’s North. Medical director for the Beaufort-Delta Health and Social Services Authority, he has been especially committed to teaching and training medical students and residents from universities across the country and overseas, many of whom have gone on to work in other rural areas of Canada and around the world. As a founding member of the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada, he has helped to promote sustainable and equitable health care for remote populations across Canada. For more than two decades, he has been dedicated to the betterment of his community and is one of the longest-serving doctors in Inuvik and its surrounding areas.
René Derouin, C.M., C.Q.
Val-David, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
René Derouin is a fixture of Canadian visual art. A painter, engraver and sculptor for over 50 years, he has explored such themes as identity, migrations and the mingling of cultures. He has created some remarkable works, including Migrations, the well-known installation consisting of 20 000 statuettes,
19 000 of which he sent to the bottom of the St. Lawrence River. His works have been exhibited in several countries, and his contributions to culture have earned him several awards and honours, including the Order of the Aztec Eagle. He is also known for his efforts to disseminate art. Artistic director of a foundation that he created, he sponsors young creators and offers exhibition space in his own home for artists from the three Americas. He also organizes public symposiums that encourage dialogue and artistic discussion.
Mary Jo Haddad, C.M.
Oakville, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
Mary Jo Haddad is a passionate advocate for children’s health care. Formerly a neonatal nurse and now president and chief executive officer of Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), she has played a leadership role in building a system of pediatric health care in Ontario through collaboration and innovation. Her focus on family-centered care has empowered children and their families to be important partners in health care delivery. She has also played a pivotal role in enhancing pediatric health care by sharing SickKids’ expertise and best practices with hospitals around the world. In addition, her leadership has benefited such organizations as the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health, and the Canadian Association of Pediatric Health Centres.
Martha Lou Henley, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
For Martha Lou Henley, giving is a way of life. A patron of the arts and volunteer fundraiser, she has contributed to the growth of Vancouver’s cultural scene. The Vancouver Recital Society, Vancouver Opera and the Vancouver Symphony have all benefited from her public-spiritedness and support.
A long-time opera sponsor, she has also generously helped Vancouver’s choral community and many other organizations, including the Callanish Healing Retreats Society, an organization that provides support and retreats for cancer patients and their families.
Mary-Ellen Jeans, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
As a nurse, educator, researcher and administrator, Mary-Ellen Jeans has long been a leader in health care. She played a key role in the launch of the first multidisciplinary pain clinic in Canada at the Montreal General Hospital and served as its first administrative director. As head of McGill University’s School of Nursing, she was instrumental in establishing one of our country’s first Ph.D. programs in the field. She also steered the Canadian Nurses Association and the Academy of Canadian Executive Nurses, helping to bring about greater investment in education and research, and greater awareness of the profession’s history as an integral part of Canada’s heritage.
Donald Julien, C.M., O.N.S.
Truro, Nova Scotia
Member of the Order of Canada
Donald Julien has worked throughout his life to establish a better future for his people. Executive director of the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq and member of several Aboriginal advisory committees in Nova Scotia, he has, through his leadership, brought about partnerships that have produced economic opportunities for his community. A lifelong champion of Mi’kmaq heritage, he is known for his contributions to the improvement of cultural sensitivities towards Aboriginal people in Nova Scotia. He was also instrumental in the preservation of archaeological sites in his province, which illustrate the history of the Mi’kmaq people of Nova Scotia.
Derek Key, C.M., O.P.E.I.
Summerside, Prince Edward Island
Member of the Order of Canada
Derek Key has made community service the focal point of his life and his influence has been felt across Prince Edward Island. A volunteer, he has shared his time and fundraising talents with many organizations, including Holland College, the Prince County Hospital Foundation, the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce, Scouts Canada and Rotary International. He has also championed economic growth in his region by helping to steer the Atlantic Innovation Fund and by playing a pivotal role in the development of the Slemon Park Corporation, a centre of excellence for the local aerospace industry. A lawyer by profession, he continues to be a model for other volunteers in communities across his province.
Claude Laberge, C.M.
Westmount, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Claude Laberge is renowned as one of the pioneers of genetic research in Quebec. A professor at Université Laval and a physician-geneticist, he helped set up a program for neonatal blood screening in the 1970s, in order to detect certain hereditary diseases in newborns. Equally well-known for his vision and leadership, he oversaw the Réseau de médecine génétique du Québec and the Réseau de médecine génétique appliquée. Moreover, he was a forerunner in the development and evolution of Quebec population genomics.
Louise Lévesque, C.M., C.Q.
Hudson, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Louise Lévesque is a renowned nurse who has had a huge influence on her profession in gerontology and geriatrics. A professor emeritus at the Université de Montréal, she has developed numerous courses and was the first holder of the Research Chair in Nursing Care for Seniors and Their Families. In the tangible application of her research findings, she brought about major changes in nursing practices in Canada and elsewhere. In particular, she made an impact on the care of Alzheimer’s patients and on the support given to their caregivers. Her book, Alzheimer, comprendre pour mieux aider, remains a key reference in the field. She is also a sought-after speaker and a researcher at the Centre de recherche de l’Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal.
Andrée Lortie, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
A long-time supporter of the Francophone cause, Andrée Lortie is a leading figure in French education in her province and elsewhere in Canada. She worked tirelessly to establish and develop La Cité collégiale, the first French-language college of applied arts and technology in Ontario. As its president for 20 years, she ensured its success and growth. She also helped to initiate college education services in French in other provinces, and has served on the boards of several organizations. Notably, she demonstrated remarkable leadership within the Réseau des cégeps et des collèges francophones du Canada, where she played a major role in establishing mechanisms for inter-institutional co-operation.
Pierre Lucier, C.M.
Québec, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Pierre Lucier has applied his intelligence and imagination to the field of education. In particular, this philosopher served as president of the Conseil supérieur de l’éducation and served as deputy minister of education in Quebec. He also played a role in the development of cégeps and the success of Quebec’s university system. Moreover, he distinguished himself as president of the Université du Québec. His tireless commitment to education and his openness to other cultures led him to act as spokesperson for Canada at UNESCO and to hold key positions within the OECD and the Agence universitaire de la francophonie. A born educator, he is currently a researcher at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique, as well as a professor in the religious studies department of the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM).
James (Jamie) C. MacDougall, C.M.
Westmount, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Jamie MacDougall has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for deaf and disabled people in Canada. Associate professor of psychology at McGill University, he is the founder of the Canadian Deafness Research and Training Institute and of the Institute for Rehabilitation Research and Development. As executive director of the MacKay Centre School, he empowered students to achieve their full potential by introducing a program integrating the use of sign language with other communication modes. He developed innovative literacy training programs in Eastern and Atlantic Canada and he was the first to recognize and document the Inuit Sign Language. As part of his advocacy for equal rights and services for the deaf and the disabled, he has advised provincial, federal and territorial organizations.
Joy Harvie Maclaren, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
A philanthropist and volunteer, Joy Maclaren is known for her determination and commitment as well as for her generosity. Sharing her time, resources and leadership skills, she has helped a wide range of organizations to get off the ground and flourish, including Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Hospice at May Court and the community foundations of both Ottawa and Canada. With a keen interest in Aboriginal issues and post-secondary education, she has contributed to numerous institutions, including Carleton and McGill universities, and has created scholarships, a research chair and a conference on Aboriginal arts.
Howard (Howie) W. Meeker, C.M.
Waterloo, Ontario and Parksville, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
Howie Meeker is one of hockey’s legends. He is a former professional hockey player and instructor, whose love of the game lived on after he left the ice. A well-loved and colourful commentator, he shared his knowledge and enthusiasm with fans across the country on “Hockey Night in Canada” and as the host of “Howie Meeker’s Hockey School.” He also encouraged solid hockey skills among youth by founding summer camps in Canada and the United States, which helped countless young players to improve their game. He has also been a generous supporter of many causes in his community, notably to the Special Olympics and the British Columbia Guide Dog Services.
Alex C. Michalos, C.M.
Brandon, Manitoba and Prince George, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
A renowned specialist in quality-of-life research, Alex Michalos has been an important force in the social sciences. Professor emeritus of political science and former chancellor at the University of Northern British Columbia, he was the driving force behind the creation of the university’s Institute for Social Research and Evaluation, and served as its first director. A prolific author, he has been sought out by Canadian and foreign governments for his expertise. He has also generously shared his leadership skills with UNESCO, the Royal Society of Canada and the International Society for Quality of Life Studies, as well as with numerous community organizations and government bodies, both at home and abroad.
Rita Mirwald, C.M.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Member of the Order of Canada
Rita Mirwald is an inspirational role model for women in the mining industry. As a senior executive with Cameco Corporation, one of the world’s largest uranium producers, she was highly regarded for developing training and recruitment programs in Saskatchewan’s First Nations communities, and for her industry-wide mentorship of women. Having risen through the ranks herself, she championed equal opportunities for all employees. The first female director of the Saskatchewan Mining Association, she has also been actively involved with such organizations as the Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation and the Saskatchewan Institute of Public Policy.
Aftab A. Mufti, C.M.
North Vancouver, British Columbia and Winnipeg, Manitoba
Member of the Order of Canada
Aftab Mufti’s leadership and vision has enhanced Canada’s reputation as an innovator in civil engineering. He was among the first to promote the application of advanced composite materials in the construction and rehabilitation of civil structures to increase their strength and reduce the problem of corrosion. He has also introduced the use of fibre optic sensors to optimize the maintenance and repair of concrete structures. A professor at the University of Manitoba, he is president of the Intelligent Sensing for Innovative Structures Canada research network. He is a former professor of Dalhousie University and director of the Nova Scotia CAD/CAM Centre of computer-aided design and manufacturing.
Harold (Hal) O’Leary, C.M.
Winter Park, Colorado, U.S.A. and Fredericton, New Brunswick
Member of the Order of Canada
For over 40 years, Hal O’Leary has helped to improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities. He is the founder of the National Sports Centre for the Disabled, one of North America’s largest therapeutic recreational organizations and the training ground for many international paralympic athletes. He also developed adaptive ski techniques, equipment and programs to accommodate various disabilities. He is the author of two influential instruction manuals on adaptive skiing and has travelled extensively to assist in developing adaptive ski programs and schools all over the world.
Rosalind Prober, C.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Member of the Order of Canada
Rosalind Prober is a tireless volunteer, bringing social justice to children in Canada and abroad.
Co-founder and president of Beyond Borders/Au-delà des frontières, she is dedicated to advancing the rights of children and raising public awareness of child sexual exploitation. She also co-founded Cybertip.ca, Canada’s national tip line for reporting online abuse. A successful advocate for change, she has worked extensively on legislative reform, including the raising of Canada’s age of sexual consent from 14 to 16, and the Prober Amendment, which allows Canadian officials to prosecute Canadians in Canada who have committed child sex tourism crimes overseas. Frequently consulted for her expertise, she continues to monitor cases and to bring important issues to the fore.
Ernesto L. Schiffrin, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Recognized as one of the foremost authorities in the field of hypertension, Ernesto Schiffrin has advanced the knowledge of the origins, prevention and treatment of high blood pressure. His research has been of fundamental importance in elucidating the biologic processes resulting in the narrowing of small arteries. A professor at McGill University, he is the Canada Research Chair and director of the Hypertension and Vascular Research Unit at the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research. Over the years, he has also provided leadership to the Canadian Hypertension Society and the American Heart Association’s High Blood Pressure Research Council.
David H. Turpin, C.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
David H. Turpin is a scholar, scientist, educator and academic leader. One of Canada’s most-cited researchers, he is an expert on plant photosynthesis, respiration and nitrogen assimilation. As president and vice-chancellor of the University of Victoria (UVic), he is recognized nationally as a leader in higher education. At UVic, he has overseen a growth in its size, research activity and international standing. He was also instrumental in the establishment of Neptune Canada, the world’s first large-scale underwater ocean observatory, advancing global understanding of this delicate and largely unknown ecosystem.
Kue Young, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
A recognized leader in the field of Aboriginal and northern health research, Kue Young has worked to improve and promote the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the circumpolar region. As medical director of the University of Toronto’s Sioux Lookout Project, and later as director of the Centre for Aboriginal Health Research at the University of Manitoba, he was instrumental in organizing health care services to remote communities. He has also helped to establish research partnerships to advance the understanding of health issues affecting Indigenous populations in Canada and internationally. President of the International Network for Circumpolar Health Research, he is a professor and the TransCanada Pipelines Chair in Aboriginal Health and Well-being at the University of Toronto.
OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA
Raymond Chrétien, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
For nearly 40 years, Raymond Chrétien led a brilliant diplomatic career. He skillfully represented Canada in several countries, including Congo, Mexico, the United States and France. While posted to Washington, he played a major role in the implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement. Held in high regard by his peers, he was appointed as the Secretary General of the United Nations’ special envoy to Central Africa. Moreover, he successfully negotiated the historic agreement for the implementation of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement with the Cree, thereby putting an end to 30 years of disputes between the Cree and the federal government.
Sylvia Cruess, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
Sylvia Cruess is a world leader and pioneer in the field of medical professionalism-the basis for trust in the patient-physician relationship-and the evaluation of professional behaviour. Because of her work, professionalism is now integral to curricula at medical schools throughout Canada, the United States and Europe. She also played a key role in drafting an international code of conduct for physicians, The International Charter on Medical Professionalism, which serves as a modern supplement to the Hippocratic oath.
Claudio Cuello, O.C.
Westmount, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
Claudio Cuello is one of our country’s leading neuroscientists. His research focuses on the degenerative and regenerative processes in the central nervous system as they relate to aging and Alzheimer’s disease. Also, he made pioneering contributions to the development of hybridoma technology-the production of cloned, antibody-producing cells-and the launching in Canada of biotechnological enterprises based on such technologies. Former chair of McGill’s Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, and now professor and Charles E. Frosst/Merck Chair in Pharmacology, he has helped the department evolve into one of the most productive of its kind in North America.
Hélène Dorion, O.C., C.Q.
Sherbrooke and Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
Hélène Dorion is a leading figure in contemporary Francophone literature. First and foremost a poet, but equally an essayist and novelist, she has created an impressive body of work in which she questions the very essence and unchanging nature of human beings. Translated and published in
15 countries, her works, including Ravir : les lieux and Le hublot des heures, have garnered several literary awards and honours. She is notably the first Canadian recipient of the prestigious French Prix Mallarmé. She is also known for her accomplishments as director of Éditions du Noroît, where she gave precedence to featuring new poets and helped to extend the publishing house’s activities beyond our borders. Frequently invited to take part in public readings and conferences abroad, she adds to the renown of Canadian literature on the international scene.
The Honourable Arthur Jacob (Jake) Epp, P.C., O.C.
Calgary, Alberta and St. Boniface, Manitoba
Officer of the Order of Canada
Respected for his vision and integrity, Jake Epp has made important contributions to Canada’s public, private and volunteer sectors. As a federal cabinet minister, he advanced several public health issues, notably by introducing anti-smoking legislation and by implementing a national AIDS strategy. After leaving politics, he joined the oil industry as a senior executive, and is currently chairman of Ontario Power Generation, where he has promoted the use of green energy nationally and internationally. In addition, he has been active in his community, holding leadership positions with various educational, civic and health care organizations.
Michael J. Fox, O.C.
New York, New York, U.S.A. and Vancouver, British Columbia
Officer of the Order of Canada
Michael J. Fox is an outspoken advocate for people living with Parkinson’s disease, as well as a respected and accomplished screen actor. He is best known for his work in the television series “Family Ties” and “Spin City,” and for the Back to the Future film trilogy. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the early 1990s, he has focused his creative energies on funding medical research through the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. He continues to raise funds for the development of better treatments for patients. The Canadian branch of his foundation recently gained charitable status, ensuring the financial support of Canadian medical researchers working towards the ultimate goal of finding a cure.
Margaret Lock, O.C., O.Q.
Westmount, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
Margaret Lock is an internationally renowned pioneer in the field of medical anthropology. Professor emerita at McGill University, she has produced research that focuses on the relationships among culture, medical practices, technological innovation and the human body. Her groundbreaking research in Japan and North America into midlife aging transformed thinking in the social sciences about the relationship of biology and culture. She is also highly regarded for her comparative research into organ transplantation. Her recent work deals with aging and dementia and the prediction of risk for Alzheimer’s disease. A thought-provoking mentor, she continues to influence a generation of scholars.
Maurice McGregor, O.C., C.Q.
Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
The impact of Maurice McGregor’s contributions on medicine has spanned cardiology, education and health policy. An exceptional teacher and role model, he served as head of cardiology and head of medicine at the Royal Victoria Hospital, and as dean of medicine at McGill University and at the University of the Witwatersrand, in South Africa. He is recognized for having pioneered and championed the field of health technology assessment in Quebec and throughout Canada, and for having served as founding president of the Conseil d’évaluation des technologies de la santé du Québec. Now professor emeritus, he is chair of the Technology Assessment Unit of the McGill University Health Centre.
The Honourable A. Anne McLellan, P.C., O.C.
Edmonton, Alberta
Officer of the Order of Canada
Anne McLellan is a respected scholar and policy maker. She has held senior federal cabinet positions in the areas of justice, natural resources, health and public safety. She served as the first federal minister of Canada Public Safety, Security and Emergency Preparedness. As minister of health, she oversaw the creation of the Canadian Patient Safety Institute and the Health Council of Canada. She is currently the distinguished scholar-in-residence at the Institute for United States Policy Studies at the University of Alberta. She also volunteers with and serves on the boards of numerous organizations such as the Royal Alexander Hospital Foundation and the Friends of the Legal Resource Centre of Alberta.
Earl Muldon, O.C.
Hazelton, British Columbia
Officer of the Order of Canada
Earl Muldon is a passionate promoter and defender of the Gitxsan culture. As hereditary chief of the House of Delgamuukw, he is an important advocate for the rights of his people and was a driving force behind a historic legal case that resulted in the recognition of oral history as part of Canada’s court system. A renowned master carver, he has been commissioned to undertake various creative projects in Canada, Japan and the United States, including a major totem pole renewal project for the Gitanyow (Kitwancool) Hereditary Chiefs. A respected artist and instructor, he continues to mentor the next generation of artists in Gitxsan craftsmanship and traditions, contributing largely to the preservation of traditional Northwest Coast art.
Robbie Robertson, O.C.
Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. and Toronto, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
A rock music legend, Robbie Robertson is one of Canada’s most inspirational artists. He began his rise to stardom as a member of The Band, later embarking on a successful solo career that broadened to include film scores, acting, producing and musical collaborations. Through a fertile blending of diverse musical styles, he has introduced Native music to a much wider audience. His album Music for the Native Americans helped to showcase the work of other Native artists on the international music scene. By transcending cultural and geographical barriers, he stands as a model for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal artists alike.
Nahum Sonenberg, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
Nahum Sonenberg has greatly advanced the understanding of molecular biology and genetics. For over 35 years, he has studied and identified the molecular basis for protein synthesis. His groundbreaking analysis of the way genetic information in our DNA is turned into proteins has opened the door to new treatment strategies for a wide range of diseases, including cancer and viral infections. He is the James McGill Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at McGill University and at the Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre. A fellow of both the Royal Society of Canada and the Royal Society of London, he is the recipient of the Gairdner Foundation International Award and the Killam Prize for Health Sciences.
Mary Vingoe, O.C.
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Officer of the Order of Canada
As a director, actor and playwright, Mary Vingoe has championed Canadian theatre and its artists. Renowned for her creative and visionary leadership, she served as founding artistic director of the Magnetic North Theatre Festival, which travels to different cities across Canada to bring regional theatre productions to a national audience. In Nova Scotia, she was founding artistic director of the Eastern Front Theatre Company, and co-founder and co-artistic director of The Ship’s Company, where she developed and produced works featuring Maritime playwrights and actors. She is also highly regarded for providing female actors and writers with more opportunities to showcase their works, notably by co-founding the Nightwood Theatre, in Toronto.
Harry Walsh, O.C. (deceased)
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Officer of the Order of Canada
Harry Walsh’s seven-decade career was marked by his invaluable contributions to the Canadian judicial system. A criminal defence lawyer and co-chair of the Committee for the Abolition of Capital Punishment in Canada, he played a key role in advocating for the removal of the death penalty, which was abolished in 1976. He was a strong proponent of access to legal representation, and was the driving force behind the establishment of a universal legal assistance program in Manitoba. He was also known for his work on behalf of Jewish communities, and was the co-founder of the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.
His daughter, Ms. Arlyne Walsh, will receive the insignia for Mr. Harry Walsh.
ORDER OF CANADA BACKGROUNDER
Established in 1967 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Order of Canada is the centrepiece of the Canadian Honours System, and recognizes a lifetime of 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 a lifetime of outstanding achievement and merit of the highest degree, especially in service to Canada or to humanity at large
Officer – Post-nominal: O.C.
Recognizes a lifetime of achievement and merit of a high degree, especially in service to Canada or to humanity at large
Member – Post-nominal: C.M.
Recognizes a lifetime of distinguished service in or to a particular community, group or 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 St. Edward’s Crown.
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. They may be considered for outstanding achievement that reflects honour on Canada and/or lifetime contributions to humanity at large. 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 the Honours section of our website at www.gg.ca.
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