Governor General Designate Mary May Simon is an Officer of the Order of Canada, and an Officer of the Ordre national du Québec. She is also a recipient of the Governor General's Northern Medal, the Gold Order of Greenland, the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, the Gold Medal of the Canadian Geographical Society and the Symons Medal.

Ms. May Simon has made it her life’s work to increase recognition of Indigenous rights and northern affairs. Through her diplomacy and leadership, Ms. May Simon has earned the respect of many heads of governments and international organizations. She is a valued advisor on important northern issues such as sovereignty, the environment, economic development and social policy. In addition to her many accomplishments, including the negotiation of the recognition of Indigenous rights in the Constitution Act, 1982, Ms. Simon became the first Inuk to hold an ambassadorial position. She is also known as the principal architect of Canada’s northern policy. A true visionary and passionate advocate for Inuit culture, Ms. Simon is a continuous source of inspiration and is committed to the preservation of Canada’s northern identity.

Until Governor General Designate Mary May Simon is installed as the 30th governor general of Canada, His Excellency the Right Honourable Richard Wagner, P.C., will continue his duties as the Administrator of the Government of Canada.