Five exceptional and well-known Quebecers were awarded the National Assembly Medal of Honour Tuesday.
The award dates back to 2001 and recipients are chosen by MNAs:
Alexandre Bilodeau
The gold-medal Olympic skier says his determination and motivation comes from his brother, who lives with cerebral palsy.
READ MORE: Alex Bilodeau’s gold-medal run inspired by brother with disability
He has supported various charitable causes throughout the years, including the Quebec Special Olympics.
Jean-Marie de Koninck
A math professor for over 40 years at Laval University, Jean-Marie de Koninck is also known for founding Opération Nez Rouge.
He now sits on the board of directors for Quebec’s auto insurance crown corp and is the author of numerous books and scientific articles.
Ginette Reno
Juno award-winning Ginette Reno is being recognized for her 50-year career as a singer and actress.
READ MORE: Will the real Ginette Reno please step forward?
Reno is also considered a lucky charm for the Montreal Canadiens, singing the anthem before home games.
Kim Thúy
The Vietnamese-Canadian is a well-known novelist and recipient of the Governor General’s Literary Award.
Bernard Descoteaux
Descoteaux has had a long-standing career as a reporter and parliamentary correspondent in Quebec City and Ottawa.
He spent 17 years as director of newspaper Le Devoir.