Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: November 20, 2014
• Invested on: February 12, 2016

For his contributions to preserving Canada’s cultural heritage, notably through his long-standing role as executive director of the Canadian Museums Association.

A leader in the museum community for over four decades, John McAvity has consistently placed himself at the forefront of efforts to preserve Canada’s history and to promote its art. As the executive director and CEO of the Canadian Museums Association, he has improved museum governance and funding. Particularly successful as an advocate at the federal level, he has also done much to give Canada’s museums a presence on the international stage. Keenly aware of culture’s role in building vibrant communities, he continues to travel across the country in an effort to inspire and assist Canadians in the promotion and protection of their heritage.