March 12, 2019

OTTAWA—Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, will invest 1 Companion, 2 Officers and 37 Members into the Order of Canada on Thursday, March 14, 2019, at 10:30 a.m., at Rideau Hall. The investiture ceremony will be streamed live online at www.gg.ca/.

About the Order of Canada

The Order of Canada is one of our country’s highest civilian honours. Its Companions, Officers and Members take to heart the motto of the Order: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (“They desire a better country”).

Created in 1967, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Close to 7 000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order. Those who bear the Order’s iconic snowflake insignia have changed our nation’s measure of success and, through the sum of their accomplishments, have helped us build a better Canada.

Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada. For more information about the Order of Canada or to nominate someone, visit www.gg.ca/en/honours.

A schedule of the ceremony, the list of recipients with citations, and a backgrounder on the Order of Canada are attached.

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Media wishing to cover the event are asked to confirm their attendance with the
Rideau Hall Press Office, and must arrive no later than 10:15 a.m. on the day of the ceremony.
 

Media information:

Sara Régnier-McKellar
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-993-2569 (office)
613-301-2465 (cell)
sara.regnier-mckellar@gg.ca

Follow GGJuliePayette and RideauHall on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

CEREMONY SCHEDULE

Members of the media are asked to observe the following schedule:

9:45 a.m.:	Media arrive at Rideau Hall
10:30 a.m.:	Ceremony begins
	The Governor General speaks
	The Governor General presents the insignia of the Order of Canada
11:45 a.m.:	Interviews with recipients

RECIPIENTS’ CITATIONS

COMPANION OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

The Honourable Thomas A. Cromwell, C.C.
Ottawa, Ontario

Thomas Cromwell is recognized as one of Canada’s most important voices on enhancing access to justice. Following a 15-year career teaching law, he was appointed as justice to the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal and later elevated to the Supreme Court of Canada, earning a reputation as a prolific writer. Known as a man of principle and integrity, he has chaired a national committee on access to justice and has led the creation of an authoritative text on the challenges of structuring civil and family justice in Canada.

OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Matthew Coon Come, O.C.
Mistissini, Quebec

Matthew Coon Come is a champion of Indigenous rights and self-determination. He has been a steadfast leader, first as grand chief of the Grand Council of the Crees and later as national chief of the Assembly of First Nations. Notably, he led the opposition against the James Bay hydroelectric project in the 1990s. More recently, he contributed to the drafting of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Through his undeviating advocacy, he has not only been the voice of the Cree people, but has also inspired Indigenous communities across Canada and around the world.

Patricia Meirion Moore, O.C.
Calgary, Alberta

Patricia Moore’s generosity of spirit has changed the face of giving in Calgary. A dedicated philanthropist and hands-on volunteer, she has spearheaded multiple fundraising campaigns that led to improved public services in her community, notably the city’s Public Library Foundation, the local women’s emergency shelter and the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. This kind-hearted citizen is deeply committed to strengthening the cultural and social fabric of her region, and focuses her energy on building a healthier and more connected place to live.

MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Mohit Bhandari, C.M., O.Ont.
Burlington, Ontario

Mohit Bhandari is a pre-eminent leader in the field of orthopaedic surgery. A surgeon with the Division of Orthopaedic Surgery at McMaster University, he has conducted pioneering research relating to intimate partner violence and has led multiple, large-scale clinical trials. His advocacy on behalf of domestic violence victims has sparked a global conversation about the important role health care workers play in identifying and responding to abuse. A professor at McMaster University, he is also recognized as an influential mentor to students and surgical colleagues alike.

Hédi Bouraoui, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Literary artist, novelist and poet Hédi Bouraoui is known for his avant-garde style. A professor at York University and tireless advocate for French-language literature, he uses his writing, imbued with original expressions, to explore the notion of identities, culture shock, integration and the related emotional consequences. He formulated the philosophy of transculturalism, making him an artisan of openness to others, with universal humanism as a guiding principle.

Marie-Anne Day Walker-Pelletier, C.M.
Okanese First Nation, Saskatchewan

Marie-Anne Day Walker-Pelletier has devoted her life to the Okanese First Nation. As its longest-serving chief, she has worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of her community. She has spearheaded several projects related to education, wellness and social assistance, with a particular focus on supporting vulnerable women and children. She has also worked to preserve the culture, language and traditions of her people and has successfully advocated for the treaty and inherent rights of the Okanese.

Mohamed Jamal Deen, C.M.
Hamilton, Ontario

Jamal Deen is a prominent global leader in electrical engineering and applied physics. A professor at McMaster University, he is a world-class expert in semiconductor devices and circuits and their respective applications. His extensive achievements, ranging from theory and modelling to practical applications, have had a profound impact on the development of optical detection, imaging and sensing systems, and on the development of wireless technologies. His leadership in numerous academic and professional institutions is equally renowned, particularly in his role as president of the Academy of Science of the Royal Society of Canada.

Raymond L. Desjardins, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Raymond Desjardins is one of Canada’s foremost agrometeorologists. He is renowned internationally for pioneering the use of aircraft-based technology to measure photosynthesis and greenhouse gas emissions, which was key for quantifying the interactions between terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere. A resolute public servant with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada for more than 50 years, he is a staunch advocate of reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions both in Canada and abroad, striving to preserve the environmental sustainability of our planet.

Allan Steven Detsky, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Allan Steven Detsky is a renowned health economics specialist in the areas of policy and clinical epidemiology. Professor at the University of Toronto, he has developed health care guidelines for improving patient outcomes through resource management. Notably, he developed the Guidelines for Economic Evaluation of Pharmaceuticals, which has formed the basis of practice for future national pharmaceutical reviews. The breadth of his expertise has led to the modernization of Canadian clinical policy and his publications have been issued in some of the world’s most prestigious journals.

Peter J. Dillon, C.M.
Peterborough, Ontario

Peter Dillon is a passionate steward of Canada’s inland waters. A professor at Trent University and former director of the renowned Dorset Research Centre, he has conducted seminal research on the effects of human activities and natural factors, including the importance of watersheds, on lake ecosystems. His pioneering studies on excess nutrient buildup and acid deposition have influenced the development of management policies for water bodies in Canada and abroad. An experienced mentor, he has nurtured the careers of many emerging scientists.

Micheline Dumont, C.M.
Sherbrooke, Quebec

An avowed and committed feminist, Micheline Dumont is a trailblazing researcher studying the history of women in Quebec. Professor emerita at l’Université de Sherbrooke, she played a leading role in developing this specialized field, giving yesterday’s women a voice and autonomy of action. This prolific author has published numerous authoritative works lauded for their solid methodology and which illustrate her desire to help shape our world. Her voice and ideas have been influencing new generations and transcending academic circles for five decades.

James Andrew Estill, C.M., O.Ont.
Guelph, Ontario

Jim Estill is a highly regarded entrepreneur in the Guelph and Waterloo technology communities. While still in university, he established a technology distribution company that eventually grew to over $2 billion in sales. Currently the owner and CEO of Danby Appliances, he remains committed to the growth of the tech community through his mentorship of budding entrepreneurs and his financial investment in start-up companies. Also known for his charitable endeavours, he has sponsored the settlement of 61 Syrian refugee families in Guelph.

Thomas Erskine Feasby, C.M.
Calgary, Alberta

Tom Feasby has brought visionary leadership to clinical and academic medicine in western Canada. Professor of neurology and a former senior leader at the universities of Calgary and Alberta, he was influential in building and expanding their medical programs and areas of expertise. Notably, the University of Calgary has risen to the national forefront of clinical neuroscience and stroke research thanks to his passion and dedication. A renowned mentor, he has nurtured the careers of many leading clinician-scientists.

David Fox, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Actor David Fox is a seminal force in Canadian theatre. In the 1970s, he gave indelible portrayals of characters in productions that were part of Canada’s alternate theatre, a groundbreaking movement devoted to Canadian playwrights and stories. Since then, he has graced the stage of every major theatre across the country and has worked extensively in Canadian film and television. Highly regarded by his peers and audiences alike, he is considered one of Canada’s most naturalistic actors and a beacon in the industry.

Patricia Gallant, C.M.
Campbellton, New Brunswick

Versatile author, composer, singer and dancer Patsy Gallant has been performing on stage for more than 60 years. Her contributions to popular music, in French and in English, have been enjoyed by audiences the world over. Her hits “Besoin d’amour”, “Sugar Daddy” and “From New York to L.A.” have earned her the title of Queen of Disco. She has performed for enthusiastic audiences both on stage and on television, bringing iconic characters to life in several musical comedies and rock operas, including Starmania. Always inspiring, she also supports a number of social causes.

Laurier Gareau, C.M.
Regina, Saskatchewan

For over 40 years, Laurier Gareau has been actively involved in showcasing and developing the roots of Saskatchewan’s Francophone community. He played a key role in establishing networks to bring art and culture into the province’s schools and Francophone organizations. A born community leader, he has been a driving force in heritage promotion, notably as a founding member of the Revue historique. A prolific playwright and respected author, he penned The Betrayal, one of the seminal plays depicting the history of Saskatchewan.

Georges Henri Goguen, C.M.
Moncton, New Brunswick

Georges Henri Goguen is a pioneer of modern art in Acadia. Over the course of his career as a graphic designer for Radio-Canada Moncton, he has worked tirelessly to produce, explore and delve deeper into art. His paintings have been widely exhibited and are included in several public and private collections. In an effort to promote and support emerging talent, he founded a gallery that features the works of Maritime artists. He also created a public event that brings people together to explore the creative process; like his work, it continues to inspire generations of visual artists.

Mitchell Halperin, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Mitchell Halperin is an iconic leader in the field of nephrology. Professor emeritus at the University of Toronto, he is a clinician, researcher and educator whose contributions have advanced our understanding of renal physiology and metabolism. He is renowned for establishing an innovative approach to teaching metabolic and electrolyte disorders that demystifies this intricate area of medicine for practitioners in a range of specialities. This revered mentor has trained many of today’s leading nephrologists in his lab at St. Michael’s Hospital.

Austin Hilliard Hunt, C.M.
Kagawong, Ontario

Austin Hunt has dedicated his life to public service. He began his political career as the campaign manager and official agent of former prime minister Lester B. Pearson, before turning his interest to provincial and municipal governance on Manitoulin Island. As mayor of Billings Township for over five decades, he became the longest-serving elected official in Canada. To this day, he continues to serve as a role model to youth who are eager to get involved in politics and governance at all levels.

John Bryson Kitts, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Jack Kitts has had a distinguished career as an anesthesiologist and health care leader. As president and CEO of The Ottawa Hospital for nearly 20 years, he has successfully guided one of Canada’s largest teaching and research hospitals by developing and implementing unique, patient-centred care. He has also been influential in creating a more integrated health care system in Ontario. A leader among colleagues and a mentor to young physicians, he is widely recognized as a champion of better health practices across the country.

Burton Kramer, C.M., O.Ont.
Toronto, Ontario

Burton Kramer is an icon of graphic design in Canada. Throughout a career spanning more than 50 years, he has created visual emblems of our country’s history and culture. He is particularly renowned for his work in designing the way-finding system for Expo67, which showcased Canada to the world, as well as the original Canadian Broadcasting Corporation logo. In addition to his own exemplary design contributions, he developed graphic design manuals for many public- and private-sector corporate identity branding programs, which set a modern standard for the practice in Canada.

Joseph Lebovic, C.M. and Wolf Lebovic, C.M.
Aurora, Ontario

Joseph and Wolf Lebovic have been drivers of economic growth and community development in the Toronto area for over 60 years. Since surviving the holocaust and arriving in Canada, these brothers have built homes together, gradually expanding their operations to include high rises, condominiums, and commercial and industrial buildings. Known for their philanthropy, they have made monumental donations, notably to the Mount Sinai Hospital and to the establishment of a thriving Jewish community centre in Toronto’s York region.

The insignia awarded to Mr. Joseph Lebovic was presented to him at an earlier ceremony.

Bruce McManus, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Bruce McManus is improving outcomes for Canadians with cardiovascular disease. A professor at the University of British Columbia, he is a luminary in the field of heart and blood vessel pathology and in preventing vital organ failure. His contributions to translational medicine are extensive, wherein he has advanced our understanding and detection of inflammatory ailments like viral heart disease and heart transplant rejection. Currently at the helm of the Prevention of Organ Failure Centre of Excellence, he is an experienced, highly respected administrator and leader.

David Morley, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

David Morley’s commitment to international development and humanitarianism has improved the lives of children and families worldwide. Since first working with street children in Central America in the late 1970s, he has become a leader in the non-profit sector in Canada, notably serving at the helm of Médecins sans Frontières Canada and UNICEF Canada. Today, he is an internationally recognized expert on humanitarian response, sustainable development and child well-being whose principled leadership has resulted in meaningful change, notably the United Nations’ Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Muskoka Initiative.

Barbara Neis, C.M.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

Barbara Neis has shed light on crucial social and economic issues through her research. An influential sociologist and professor at Memorial University, she focuses on the connections between work, health, gender, safety and geographical mobility, particularly as they relate to the fisheries and coastal communities of Newfoundland and Labrador. Her groundbreaking, interdisciplinary work has had a worldwide impact on the fisheries industry and has broadened our understanding of the human dimensions of global change.

Francis Pang, C.M.
Fredericton, New Brunswick and Toronto, Ontario

Francis Pang has championed cross-cultural education between Canada and China. As chair and founder of the Advanced Knowledge Database International Inc., he has built partnerships with several Canadian and Chinese post-secondary institutions, notably the University of New Brunswick and the Concord College of Sino-Canada in Beijing. His co-operative education model is widely acclaimed and considered the gold standard in international schooling. He is also credited with establishing the Confucius Institute of New Brunswick, which brings teachers from Beijing to teach Mandarin in Canadian classrooms.

Hilary Pearson, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Hilary Pearson is devoted to building a culture of giving. As president of Philanthropic Foundations Canada, she helped it become one of the country’s leading voices in organized philanthropy. Through her visionary leadership, she has encouraged family, independent and corporate grant makers to act collectively to increase their impact. Her commitment extends beyond her professional role; she serves on the boards of several non-profit organizations and is known for her generosity in connecting and mentoring those seeking volunteer opportunities.

Michèle Rivet, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Throughout her career, Michèle Rivet has dedicated herself to human rights. As a law professor, judge of the Quebec Youth Court, president and founder of the Quebec Human Rights Tribunal and lawyer, she has remained firm in her commitment to fighting discrimination, recognizing substantive equality, fostering social inclusion and promoting the rule of law. She has also served as president of the Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice, and as a Canadian commissioner and vice-president of the International Commission of Jurists in Geneva.

The Honourable Lucienne Robillard, P.C., C.M.
Chambly, Quebec

For many years, Lucienne Robillard has been making her mark in the public and political arenas. She was a social worker and the public curator for Quebec prior to being elected to the National Assembly, where she was responsible for key departments related to education, among others. Under her leadership at the federal level, the public service achieved pay equity and modernized its human resources management. She recently chaired Quebec’s Commission de révision permanente des programmes and continues to be actively involved in governance.

Louis Sabourin, C.M., O.Q.
Montréal, Quebec

Professor Louis Sabourin has distinguished himself in academia and diplomacy. He established new programs at the École nationale d’administration publique and the University of Ottawa, notably its Institute for International Cooperation. As a diplomat, he implemented numerous development and co-operation projects in Africa, Latin America and Asia, and was the only Canadian appointed president of the OECD Development Centre in Paris. An engaged mentor, he has also left an indelible mark through the creation of the Conseil des relations internationales de Montréal, which draws prominent figures from around the world.

Jean-Claude Savoie, C.M., O.N.B.
Saint-Quentin, New Brunswick

A renowned Acadian entrepreneur, Jean-Claude Savoie is known for his drive and continuous search for innovation. By founding Groupe Savoie, he helped to revive New Brunswick’s declining wood industry. He developed new operating methods that positioned his company as a global leader in wood processing, making it one of the largest employers in the region. As the philanthropist behind the creation of the Fondation Hector Savoie, he plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being and revitalization of his province.

Sharon Sholzberg-Gray, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Sharon Sholzberg-Gray is a dedicated advocate for public health care in Canada. A former leader of multiple health care organizations and coalitions, she lobbied for equitable access to a broad continuum of services, including home-based and long-term care. Notably, she was an influential advisor on the work of the Royal Commission on the Future of Health Care in Canada and the 2004 Intergovernmental Health Accord. Now retired and serving as a volunteer, she continues to work towards a publicly funded, accessible and sustainable Canadian health care system.

Juha-Pekka Kalervo Sinervo, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Pekka Sinervo is a renowned leader in particle physics. Professor and former dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto, and former senior vice-president of research at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, he has furthered our understanding of the basic building blocks of the universe. Notably, he was instrumental in the discovery of the top quark and the Higgs boson particle. An active volunteer in the Jewish community, he is president of the Canadian Council for Reform Judaism.

Mutsumi Takahashi, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

For over 30 years, Mutsumi Takahashi has been a point of reference in Quebec’s broadcasting industry. The chief news anchor of CTV Montreal, she has covered some of the province’s major events, and has showed integrity and commitment to maintaining high ethical journalistic standards. In addition to earning the trust of her peers and audiences alike, she is credited with promoting understanding among Montréal’s diverse population. Her devotion to the community is further evidenced by her support for various causes, notably the McGill University Health Centre fundraising campaign.

Scott Thornley, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Influential graphic designer Scott Thornley has played a pivotal role in our collective appreciation of art, culture, science and education. Collaborating with major private and public-sector institutions, universities and non-profit groups, he has broadened their messaging with his unique storytelling abilities, leaving a vivid imprint on our cultural and visual landscape. In recent years, he has turned his imagination to writing crime fiction, in which he has intricately woven stories rich in character and place.

Aritha van Herk, C.M., A.O.E.
Calgary, Alberta

Aritha van Herk has been a strong voice of Canadian literature at home and abroad for over 30 years. As a novelist, essayist, cultural commentator and editor, she has challenged the conventional notions of gender, genre and geography. She is credited with changing our perceptions of western Canada and raising public awareness of its unique stories and characteristics. A professor at the University of Calgary, she is recognized as a passionate teacher and mentor to new generations of Canadian writers.

James Patterson Waddell, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

James Waddell is a long-standing advocate for musculoskeletal care in Canada. Senior surgeon at Toronto’s St. Michael’s Hospital, he has been a leader in the orthopaedic medical community for several decades as a clinician, educator and administrator. He has made significant contributions to surgical education, guiding a generation of Canadian orthopaedic specialists through their training. Working to advance care practices across the country, he has held multiple positions of influence within the field’s leading professional associations, including Bone and Joint Canada and the Canadian Orthopaedic Association.

Barry Wellar, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Barry Wellar is a trailblazer in the field of geographic information science (GIS). Professor emeritus at the University of Ottawa, he has been a strong advocate for the field’s recognition as a legitimate domain of scientific inquiry as well as a fundamental research tool. He pioneered the use of GIS applications in public-sector planning at all levels of government, particularly within the urban context. His leadership within the field, both in academia and industry, is extensive and lauded.

Isabella Rhoda Wurtele Eaves, C.M. and Grace Rhona Wurtele Gillis, C.M.
Westmount, Quebec

Over 75 years ago, twin sisters Rhoda and Rhona set the stage for Canadian women in skiing. Winning almost every ski competition in North America during the 1940s and early 50s, they were the first women to qualify for Canada’s Olympic ski team, influencing generations of medal winners. Retired from competition, they remained strong advocates for women in sports, and admired mentors to many. Their unwavering devotion to the sport notably contributed to making winter sports more accessible to families in Montréal.

ORDER OF CANADA BACKGROUNDER

Established in 1967 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Order of Canada is the cornerstone of the Canadian Honours System, and recognizes 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 national pre-eminence or international service or achievement;

Officer – Post-nominal: O.C.
recognizes national service or achievement; and

Member – Post-nominal: C.M.
recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level or in a special 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 the Royal Crown. It is struck in fine silver and is composed of three individual pieces: the snowflake, annulus and maple leaf. The colour is added by hand through a unique application of opaque and translucent enamel.

The design of the insignia of the Order of Canada dates from 1967, and is credited to Bruce Beatty, C.M., S.O.M., C.D. The technical drawings used by the Royal Canadian Mint in this new generation of the insignia were developed by the Canadian Heraldic Authority at the Chancellery of Honours, part of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General. The insignia is manufactured by the Mint at its Ottawa facility.

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. Members of the Royal Family, governors general and their spouses are appointed in the extraordinary category. 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.