Officer of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: October 5, 2006
• Invested on: October 26, 2007

One of our most influential literary critics and scholars, William New has devoted over four decades to the study and promotion of Canadian literature. A former Killam professor at the University of British Columbia, he has taught and lectured around the world. He has written and edited over 30 books, including his own works of poetry. He also edited the respected journal Canadian Literature for nearly 20 years. He has served on dozens of juries, including that of the prestigious Giller Prize. Recognized with numerous honours, he was awarded the Royal Society of Canada's Lorne Pierce Medal for unprecedented achievement in critical and imaginative literature.