Throughout her career, Gail Cook-Bennett has been a trailblazer and role model for women. For over three decades, this economist has been providing wise counsel and leadership to the boards of private, public and not-for-profit organizations. She has been a director of several of Canada's largest companies and is currently chair of the board of Manulife Financial. Founding chair of the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, she has also contributed to Canadian public policy as a member of the board of the Bank of Canada, and as a member of federal and provincial advisory committees. The Salvation Army and Carleton University have also benefited from her support.
Max Cynader, C.M., O.B.C.
West Vancouver, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
Holder of the Canada Research Chair in Brain Development at the University of British Columbia (UBC), Max Cynader is a leader in the field of biomedical research. He has headed research teams whose work has contributed significantly to the understanding of the neurological function of visual systems and of brain disorders, such as stroke and Alzheimer's disease. A gifted administrator, renowned educator and respected mentor, he was a Killam research professor at Dalhousie University and helped establish the Brain Research Centre at UBC and Vancouver Coastal Health. He has also made this important research more accessible to the general public by explaining its intricacies to lay audiences and by co-founding companies that make leading-edge treatments available to a wider market.
James J. Douglas, C.M.
West Vancouver, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
A pioneer in book publishing in British Columbia, James Douglas has also had a profound influence on the industry as a whole. He took Douglas & McIntyre, which began as a small regional publishing house, to national and international prominence. A driving force behind the Association of Canadian Publishers, he worked tirelessly to promote Canadian writers and to urge businesses to think and aim beyond our borders. Known as a patient and generous mentor, he inspired a generation to invest its time, resources and energy in Canadian publishing. As well, he was instrumental in the founding and design of Simon Fraser University'spublishing program, the first in North America.
John C. Godel, C.M.
Heriot Bay, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
Thousands of children have benefited from John Godel's dedication to improving pediatric care. Professor emeritus at the University of Alberta, he has produced research on isolated northern populations in Canada that has contributed to the prevention, detection and treatment of disorders such as iron deficiency anemia, vitamin D deficiency and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. He also spent 20 years travelling regularly in northern Canada to provide health care to Aboriginal children, and to raise awareness about nutrition and healthy living practices. As well, over the last 40 years, he has helped develop pediatric training programs in many African countries, mentored medical students and health care workers, and inspired others to follow in his footsteps.
Dan Hanganu, C.M., O.Q.
Montréal, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Dan Hanganu is one of Canada's most talented architects. He has designed plans for a wide variety of buildings, and his great creativity and bold projects have won him the admiration of his peers and the public. He is renowned for creating buildings with strong personalities that respect their environment and users. His achievements, which include Pointe-à-Callière, the Montréal Museum of Archaeology and History, have won him many awards, notably from heritage preservation societies. He is also recognized as an inspiring and encouraging teacher at the universities of McGill, Laval and Montréal. In addition, he shows his human side by volunteering his time as a mentor to architecture students in his homeland of Romania.
Jack Hodgins, C.M.
Victoria, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
In Jack Hodgins' fiction, the people and places of Vancouver Island come alive, often in the midst of mysterious and magical forces. He is an acclaimed writer, admired for his structural and linguistic adventurousness. His work, known throughout the world, has garnered numerous honours, including the Governor General's Literary Award for fiction and the Commonwealth Literature Prize. He has also had tremendous influence as a teacher and mentor, and has shared his expertise in A Passion for Narrative, a highly regarded guide to writing fiction.
Stanley J. Hughes, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
Stanley Hughes is internationally recognized for his pioneering contributions to the field of mycology. His research has greatly added to the scientific knowledge of fungi and moulds. In 1953, he published a paper that revolutionized the methods used to classify asexually-reproducing, or conidial, fungi. Also, his research into microscopic fungi, as well as his studies on the fungi of New Zealand, established his reputation as an authority in fungal classification. He served as vice-president of the International Mycological Association and he has mentored many young scientists at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, where he is now an honorary research associate.
Jay Ingram, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
Jay Ingram is a master at making complex science accessible. In his roles as a radio and television host, author, and public speaker, he makes developments across the spectrum both interesting and relevant to the public, and builds bridges between scientists and the media. He has pioneered programs devoted entirely to science on both national radio and television, and has been sought out to train new generations of journalists as chair of the Banff Centre's science communications program. He has received broad recognition for his work, including the first annual Award for Contributions to Public Understanding from the Canadian Society for Brain, Behaviour and Cognitive Science.
Margaret Lyons, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
Margaret Lyons has played a pioneering role for women in Canadian broadcasting. As the first female head of current affairs at CBC radio, she oversaw the genesis of programs such as "Quirks and Quarks,""As It Happens" and "This Country in the Morning." She went on to become the first female director of the AM radio channel and the first female vice-president of the entire English radio network. Proud of her heritage, she has shared her love of Japanese language and culture within her numerous volunteer positions, which include roles with the Canadian Association of Japanese Language Educators, the McMaster University Senate, Mackenzie House, and Ontario Heritage Connection.
Matilda Murdoch, C.M., O.N.B.
Miramichi, New Brunswick
Member of the Order of Canada
Known as the "Queen of the Down East Fiddle," Matilda Murdoch has been a lifelong performer, composer and teacher of traditional fiddle music. She began playing the fiddle as a child and, by the age of 11, she was already a seasoned professional, performing at dances and concerts throughout New Brunswick. More than 70 years later, she is an icon in fiddle circles, as over 200 of her compositions have been played and recorded throughout North America and Ireland, including her famous "Loggieville Two-Step." Her multiple awards and distinctions are a testament to her enduring legacy to the cultural community of New Brunswick.
Guy Nadon, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Guy Nadon is one of his generation's greatest actors in Quebec. On stage, as well as on television, he gains admiration for the quality of his acting and for his stage presence, imbuing his characters with strength and humanity. He quickly made his mark on the theatre scene, in classic pieces as well as contemporary and Canadian ones, playing a number of significant roles, including Cyrano de Bergerac and Richard III. His body of work also includes numerous roles in French- and English-language television series and dramas, as well as narration credits in documentaries and voice work in the world of animation. Moreover, for nearly 20 years, he has shared his passion for the theatre and his love of playwriting with students at the National Theatre School.
Gordon M. Nixon, C.M., O.Ont.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
One of our country's most accomplished businessmen, Gordon Nixon generously shares his energy, skill and resources with others. President and chief executive officer of the Royal Bank of Canada, he is known as a strong and innovative leader. He has demonstrated these abilities by helping to steer the International Monetary Conference, the Canadian Council of Chief Executives, and the MaRS Discovery District. He founded a personal charitable foundation that supports a variety of causes and he has given his time to a number of community organizations, including the United Way of Greater Toronto and the Hospital for Sick Children.
Jean O'Neil, C.M., C.Q.
Paris, France and Montréal, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
To read Jean O'Neil is to discover Quebec in a unique language and style. His novels, stories and collections of poetry all reflect his passion for his province and his understanding of its people and places. With humour and lyricism, curiosity and scientific accuracy, he brings to life not only Quebec's history, geography, flora and fauna, but also its colours and customs. His works include Cap-aux-Oies, Mon beau Far West and Une autre île d'Orléans. He has also contributed to several publications and newspapers, and has written plays, scenarios and screenplays.
Patricia Parr, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
Pianist Patricia Parr had already earned rave reviews and played to sold-out audiences in Canada and the United States by the time she had finished primary school. She would later become one of our finest chamber musicians. Admired by peers in Canada and abroad, she was a founding member of several chamber groups, notably the Amici chamber ensemble, with which she played for 20 years. She and her colleagues in this JUNO award-winning trio consistently supported Canadian composers, commissioning and recording numerous original works. She has also been highly sought after as a guest artist, and continues to share her knowledge and skill as a mentor, teacher, adjudicator and volunteer.
Ross E. Petty, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Member of the Order of Canada
Professor at the University of British Columbia, Ross Petty has devoted his career to improving the lives of children afflicted with rheumatic diseases. He established the first formal academic training program in pediatric rheumatology in Canada at the University of Manitoba and later headed the Division of Rheumatology at the British Columbia Children's Hospital. He co-authored the seminal reference in the field and was a founding member of the Canadian Pediatric Rheumatology Association. A respected authority, he has been widely sought after for his insight and clinical judgment at home and abroad.
David Adams Richards, C.M., O.N.B.
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Member of the Order of Canada
David Adams Richards has made an enormous contribution to Canada's literary scene as an author and as a voice for New Brunswick and the Maritimes. His novels have immortalized the Miramichi River Valley and its working-class inhabitants. His writing has shone a spotlight on issues of class, identity and community. As a mentor and writer-in-residence at universities and colleges across Canada, he has taken an active role in fostering young writers. He has also written several award-winning screenplays, non-fiction books and short story compilations.
Sister Simone Roach, C.M.
Antigonish, Nova Scotia
Member of the Order of Canada
A pioneer in nursing ethics, Simone Roach has dedicated a lifetime to improving the quality of patient care in Canada. Former chair of the Department of Nursing at St. Francis Xavier University, she was selected to oversee the development of the first ever Canadian code of ethics for registered nurses. An influential educator, she is renowned for guiding and defining the ethical practices of nurses and developing a theory of caring, which has been adopted by many schools worldwide. Her contributions are far reaching and have influenced the face of nursing internationally.
Bruce Sanford, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
Bruce Sanford devoted more than 40 years to unravelling the complexities of the geology of eastern and central Canada. While with the Geological Survey of Canada, he produced some of the most detailed and systematic geological maps of the St. Lawrence Lowlands and of the Hudson and southeast Arctic platforms. As founder of the Eastern Petroleum Geology Group at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography, he initiated studies for the federal government to assess potential gas and oil resources in the Atlantic Continental Shelf. His passion for learning and dedication to his profession led him to continue his studies after retirement. Shortly after his 80th birthday, he obtained a PhD in earth sciences from the University of Ottawa.
Roméo Savoie, C.M.
Moncton, New Brunswick
Member of the Order of Canada
Roméo Savoie is a stalwart on the eastern Canadian cultural scene. He first worked as an architect, and then went on to become a pioneer of abstract painting in the Maritimes. He is especially renowned for his use of black to symbolize ink and writing. His paintings and sculptures are featured in large public and private collections. He is proud not only of his Acadian heritage, but also of Acadian art, and has helped establish various art galleries. He is also a distinguished poet and has published numerous collections of his work. He is held in high esteem by his peers and is an inspiration for emerging artists.
Joseph A. (Joe) Sealy, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
A Renaissance man, Joe Sealy is a musician, producer, musical director, arranger, composer and actor. As a pianist, he is a collaborator of choice, known for the delicacy of his playing, paired with the ability-as peers enthuse-to "really swing." His compositions are noted for their melodic invention, and he has been invited to write songs and scores for numerous television and film productions. His recording of Africville Suite, which he wrote to pay tribute to the history of the Halifax Black community where his parents grew up, has been called a highlight of '90s jazz in Canada.
Raoul Sosa, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Raoul Sosa promotes music in many ways. He made his mark as an accomplished pianist early on in his career, and his reputation led to him performing in the United States, in Europe and across Asia. He is known as a prodigious musician who gives powerful, refined performances. He has pursued his passion despite an injury to his right hand, which has forced him to interpret works for the left hand only. As a composer, he has notably expanded the piano repertoire for the left hand. He is also a conductor and an esteemed teacher and mentor who has passed on his love of music to young musicians at a number of Canadian music institutions for 42 years.
Wayne Strongman, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario
Member of the Order of Canada
Wayne Strongman is an artistic innovator and a champion of Canadian writers and composers. Founding artistic director of Tapestry New Opera Works, this musician, conductor and choirmaster has commissioned and premiered over 20 new works. He has endeavoured to give opera a broader appeal, particularly to young people, through Opera to Go, an evening series of short, "bite-sized" operas. He also founded Tapestry's Composer-Librettist Laboratory, which fosters new partnerships and professional development. In addition, he is the long-time volunteer choral director of the Regent Park School of Music, in Toronto, where he works with inner-city children.
Paul Stubbing, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario and Iqaluit, Nunavut
Member of the Order of Canada
In a region where harsh conditions have led to shortages in medical personnel, Paul Stubbing's long-term commitment to medicine in Nunavut shines as an example of dedication. For the past three decades, this anesthesiologist and family physician has provided a full range of medical services to the people of Iqaluit and the Baffin region. He has been a steadfast advocate for quality health care in the North, and has been instrumental in training new doctors and health care workers and in encouraging them to stay in this region. Also highly involved in the community, he is greatly admired by the Inuit for his sensitivity to and appreciation of their culture, customs and language.
Bob White, C.M.
Calgary, Alberta
Member of the Order of Canada
For decades, Bob White has been instrumental in nurturing the development of Canadian playwrights. As a dramaturge and artistic director with the Playwrights Workshop of Montréal, the Factory Theatre in Toronto, Banff Playwrights Colony and Alberta Theatre Projects, he has discovered and mentored many new and established writers. His influence has resulted in a generation of playwrights and directors having their works developed and presented on stages across Canada and around the world. In addition, he has helped foster and support Calgary's thriving cultural and artistic communities.
Jeanne M. Wolfe, C.M. (Deceased)
Westmount, Quebec
Member of the Order of Canada
Jeanne Wolfe's influence on the urban planning profession was far-reaching. She was professor emerita at McGill University and served as director of the School of Urban Planning, where she inspired generations of young planners. She also played a pivotal role in university outreach, helping to establish graduate studies in urban planning at the University of the West Indies, in Trinidad. Widely known for her scholarship, she researched urban issues in a number of Caribbean countries. As well, she volunteered her time to help many housing and neighbourhood revitalization projects in Montréal. Her counsel was sought by a number of boards, committees and organizations, including the International Society of City and Regional Planners.
OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA
George Beaton, O.C.
Willowdale, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
George Beaton has been a leading expert in the field of nutritional science for more than 40 years. His pioneering work has focused on determining the nutritional requirements of various populations, with a special focus on the dietary needs of women and children. He has had a major influence on public nutrition policy, helping to establish the current dietary reference intakes and their applications in Canada and the United States. He has also served as an advisor on numerous projects in the developing world through the Canadian International Development Agency, the World Health Organization and other United Nations agencies. Professor emeritus at the University of Toronto, he has also mentored and inspired generations of Canadian nutritionists.
Clark Blaise, O.C.
San Francisco, California, U.S.A. and Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
A teacher, essayist and author, Clark Blaise has had a profound influence on Canadian letters. He is known as an innovator for blurring the line between fiction and autobiography. His writing frequently draws on his own personal story, which includes a nomadic childhood spent in numerous American cities with his Canadian parents, and a professional career in both Canada and the United States. Admired by peers, he is credited with advancing the short story as a literary genre. He is also an acclaimed non-fiction author, as well as a revered teacher and mentor who was integral in founding Concordia University's post-graduate program in creative writing, now one of the largest of its kind in Canada.
Pierre Boivin, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
A well-known entrepreneur and corporate leader in the sports industry, Pierre Boivin is equally renowned for his work to help the underprivileged. As the president and chief executive officer of the Club de hockey Canadien, he has played a key role in developing the Canadiens hockey team, including spearheading the Habs' involvement in a large number of charitable causes. He founded the Montreal Canadiens Children's Foundation, which supports over 400 organizations, and has established scholarship programs to help those in need and to encourage athletic pursuits. His philanthropic achievements have become a benchmark within the National Hockey League. He is also known for his personal involvement with a number of community groups, including Special Olympics Quebec and the Sainte-Justine Hospital Foundation.
Burton Cummings, O.C., O.M.
Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. and Winnipeg, Manitoba
Officer of the Order of Canada
Burton Cummings is a legend in Canadian music. He co-wrote many classic songs as a member of the Guess Who and as a solo artist, and was a pioneer in bringing Canadian rock music to an international audience. This singer-songwriter and musician is renowned for his energetic performances and for his unmistakable voice. His influence persists as his songs continue to be mainstays on radio stations across North America. In addition, he has performed in numerous benefit concerts in support of the Canadian Cancer Society, the National Ballet of Canada and the Variety Club, as well as in support of his fellow Manitobans following the 1997 Red River Flood.
The Honourable Gary Filmon, P.C., O.C., O.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Officer of the Order of Canada
Known for his vision and principled leadership, Gary Filmon has made important and lasting contributions locally, provincially and nationally. As premier of Manitoba, he improved the province's finances and oversaw record levels of economic growth. He also introduced multicultural policies and programs, and championed sustainable development and environmental issues. For decades, he has supported a variety of organizations, including the University of Manitoba. A member of many corporate and public boards, he also served as chair of Canada's Security Intelligence Review Committee and is highly regarded for his enduring contributions to public life in Canada.
John F. Hamm, O.C.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Officer of the Order of Canada
John Hamm has served as a model of public service and leadership. A physician by profession, he was a respected leader of regional and provincial medical societies. As premier of Nova Scotia, he championed a variety of health care initiatives, as well as a strong fiscal management. He also helped to resolve long-standing issues over provincial offshore oil and gas royalties. He served as co-chair of the year-long celebrations that marked 250 years of democracy in Canada, and continues to administer a related fund that supports youth organizations. He is currently chair of Assisted Human Reproduction Canada, a federal regulatory agency that oversees laws regarding fertility treatments.
Yves Jacques, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
For nearly 30 years, Yves Jacques' immense talent as a theatre, cinema and television actor has been showcased both in Canada and abroad. He is equally comfortable in comedy and drama, and excels in contemporary and classical theatre roles alike. He has performed with the Ligue Nationale d'Improvisation, and in the perennial favourite New Year's Eve comedy show, the "Bye Bye", and acted in films like The Decline of the American Empire. He has also performed on television and in cinema in France. In addition, he has made his mark internationally with his English- and French-language versions of the solo pieces, The Far Side of the Moon and The Andersen Project.
Donald K. Johnson, O.C.
Toronto, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
Donald Johnson has had an indelible impact on Canadian philanthropy. A business leader known for his persistence, he successfully lobbied the federal government to fully eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of listed securities to charitable organizations. This change in our tax laws has helped to increase the amount of charitable giving by billions of dollars. He was also instrumental in the creation of the Toronto Western Hospital's Donald K. Johnson Eye Centre, the largest clinical research institute for vision in Canada. Also actively involved in his community, he has served on numerous boards in health care, education, social services, the arts and business sectors.
This is a promotion within the Order.
Mario Lemieux, O.C., C.Q.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. and Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
Mario Lemieux is one of Canada's greatest hockey legends and is an inspirational role model. A gifted forward with the Pittsburgh Penguins, he won numerous awards for his scoring skills and his leadership on the ice. He also captained Canada's men's hockey team to gold at the 2002 Winter Olympics. His attitude in coming back from serious health issues during his on-ice career has set an example of the power of determination and perseverance for young players. Now a co-owner of the Penguins, he also supports fundraising initiatives for the Hockey Canada Foundation and the Mario Lemieux Foundation, which provide funds for medical and other charitable organizations.
Jonathan Lomas, O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
Jonathan Lomas has helped to strengthen the quality of health care services for Canadians by championing greater use of research evidence in the decisions of clinicians, managers and policy-makers. He was the founding chief executive officer of the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation, where he facilitated partnerships for the exchange of knowledge in the health sector. At McMaster University, he co-founded the Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis, a world-class interdisciplinary research centre. Over the years, he has been consulted by governments and a myriad of organizations, including the World Health Organization and the International Development Research Centre.
Alexa McDonough has distinguished herself through a lifelong commitment to progressive change and social activism. Former leader of both the provincial and federal New Democratic parties, she served as a passionate voice for reform and as a strong advocate of policies in aid of marginalized people. She was also effective in building a more inclusive political party, ensuring greater representation of women and visible minorities in government. Since retirement from political life, she has been serving as president of Mount St. Vincent University and continuing her active involvement in international development and peace advocacy work.
The Honourable R. Roy McMurtry, O.C., O.Ont.
Toronto, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
Roy McMurtry has advanced law, education, civil rights and politics in our country. His legacy includes playing a pivotal role in the formulation of the Canadian Constitution and the enactment of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Among his considerable achievements as attorney general and solicitor general of Ontario, he oversaw the establishment of a bilingual court system and initiated a network of community legal clinics. In his later role as chief justice of Ontario, he contributed to building a more tolerant society by promoting cultural diversity, defending the constitutional rights of minorities and creating educational initiatives for youth.
Pierre Nadeau, O.C., C.Q.
Montréal, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
Pierre Nadeau has excelled as a journalist and television producer for over 40 years. He is acclaimed for his professionalism and integrity, as well as for his remarkable talent as an interviewer. He had a distinguished career as a reporter, covering major stories from every corner of the globe. On radio and television, notably with Radio-Canada, he hosted popular public affairs shows like "Le 60," "Télémag" and the English-language series, "Weekend." He founded a production house where he produced and co-produced such noteworthy programs and series as "Pierre Nadeau rencontre" and "Les Grands Procès." Throughout his career, he has also mentored numerous young reporters.
Gordon W. Perkin, O.C.
Seattle, Washington, U.S.A. and Minden, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
A physician and family planning specialist, Gordon Perkin has spent decades helping to improve the health of citizens in developing countries. As co-founder and former president of the non-profit organization PATH (Program for Appropriate Technology in Health), he identified problems in international health care delivery, oversaw the development of solutions, and worked to have them implemented by organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization. He also headed the global health program at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation from its inception and guided the development of some of its most important projects. As well, he has consistently been active as a volunteer and remains so in retirement.
Bruce Phillips, O.C.
Okanagan Falls, British Columbia
Officer of the Order of Canada
As both a journalist and public servant, Bruce Phillips has successfully worked to advance the interests of Canadians. He is a former political reporter and foreign correspondent with Southam News and Ottawa bureau chief for CTV News. He produced and hosted the political program "Question Period" and initiated the year-end interview with the prime minister, now a tradition on numerous networks. As Canada's privacy commissioner, he expanded the reach of privacy laws beyond government into the private sector to better protect the personal data of Canadians. The results of his determination include legislation that has enhanced Canada's reputation as a leader in privacy matters throughout the world.
Guylène Proulx, O.C. (Deceased)
Gatineau, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
As a researcher with the National Research Council of Canada, Guylène Proulx won international recognition as a leader in the fire safety field. Her landmark studies on human behaviour during emergencies, smoke alarms, and photoluminescent material (PLM) emergency way-guidance systems greatly contributed to developing safer emergency evacuation strategies. In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, she was invited by the National Institute of Standards and Technology to lead the scientific study on the occupants' response to the attack, and the Center's evacuation process. She served on the board of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, and was an adjunct professor at Carleton University and at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Jack Rabinovitch, O.C., O.Ont.
Toronto, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
Jack Rabinovitch continues to lend extraordinary energy to the promotion of Canadian literature. Maintaining a very active leadership role in the administration of the Scotiabank Giller Prize, he has negotiated a partnership that has solidified the Giller as Canada's most lucrative and illustrious literary award. Canadian authors and publishers alike have gained increased sales as a direct result of either a nomination or a win, while the awards have helped to raise the profile of new and lesser-known authors. He also serves in various volunteer leadership roles that include chairing the building committee for the construction of the new Princess Margaret Hospital, as well as serving with the MaRS Discovery District, and as a lay bencher with the Law Society of Upper Canada.
This is a promotion within the Order.
Ivan Reitman, O.C.
Montecito, California, U.S.A. and Toronto, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
As a child, Ivan Reitman escaped with his parents from communist Czechoslovakia, arriving in Canada a displaced person who spoke no English. He would go on to become one of our biggest filmmakers. Since the 1970s, when he produced David Cronenberg's early films, he has distinguished himself as a strong supporter of Canadian talent and as a director and producer. His blockbuster achievements include such classic comedies as Animal House, Meatballs, and Ghostbusters. He continues to promote the Canadian film and television industries and has played a pivotal role in the development of the Toronto International Film Festival and its new headquarters and resource centre.
Donald (Don) Thompson, O.C.
Toronto, Ontario
Officer of the Order of Canada
Don Thompson possesses a facility as a musician that is virtually unprecedented in jazz. A collaborator of choice, this accomplished pianist, bassist, and vibraphonist has played in ensembles founded by some of the biggest names in jazz in Canada and on the international scene. A man of diverse talents, he has also worked with luminaries as an arranger and producer, and many of his highly regarded compositions have been recorded by others. He has been recognized with over a dozen awards and has won three JUNOs for his recordings, which are known for their range, from mainstream to avant-garde. As well, he is an influential teacher and mentor.
COMPANIONS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA
Willard S. Boyle, C.C.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Companion of the Order of Canada
One of the most accomplished Canadian physicists of his generation, Willard Boyle is an innovative scientist whose work has been the keystone of many new technologies used throughout the world. He is best known as the co-inventor of the charged-coupled device (CCD), a light-sensitive circuit that revolutionized imaging technology, and for which he won the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physics. He also developed the first continuously operating ruby laser, which helped to spur the development of fiber optics. In addition, he lent support to the Apollo space program and, following his retirement, he provided leadership to the Research Council of the Canadian Institute of Advanced Research, as well as to the Nova Scotia Council for Applied Science and Technology.
The Right Honourable Kim Campbell, P.C., C.C.
Paris, France and Vancouver, British Columbia
Companion of the Order of Canada
Kim Campbell is a pioneer for Canadian women in politics and a pre-eminent figure on the international stage. She held five ministerial portfolios before becoming Canada's 19th, and first woman, prime minister. Also the first woman to be named minister of Justice and minister of National Defence, she was known for her effective tenure in these positions. After her departure from federal politics, she became a renowned consul general for Canada in Los Angeles and embarked on a successful career with global organizations, promoting issues such as the advancement and participation of women in politics and global democracy. She helped found and led the Club of Madrid and the Council of Women World Leaders. Through her involvement with the Middle Powers Initiative, she also works as an advocate for nuclear non-proliferation.
Ben Heppner, C.C.
Toronto, Ontario
Companion of the Order of Canada
Called the leading heroic tenor of our times, Ben Heppner has reached the pinnacle of his profession and is a pre-eminent musical ambassador for our nation. Known for both the power and subtlety of his voice, he performs with the world's best orchestras in major opera houses around the globe. Both his live performances and his recordings consistently garner glowing reviews, and he has been showered with honours and awards. Still, he makes time to help at the community level. A man of deep faith, he sings for the benefit of his church, and for national and provincial lung associations. Very much devoted to Canada, he has performed in rural and urban centres throughout the country.
This is a promotion within the Order.
Chantal Petitclerc, C.C., C.Q., M.S.M.
Montréal, Quebec
Companion of the Order of Canada
Chantal Petitclerc is a model of determination and excellence. At the age of 13, an accident left her with a damaged spinal column and at the age of 18, she took part in her first wheelchair race. Although she finished last, she fell in love with racing. Since then, she has won the most medals in Canadian track and field history, with a total of 21 medals from five Paralympic Games. She also holds four world records and five Paralympic records. A spokesperson for Défi sportif and a sought-after guest speaker, she motivates people to conquer adversity and contributes to the development of handisports. She is a source of inspiration all around the world. Known for her achievements and as a role model for others, she has won the Laureus World Sports Award and was the first female Paralympic athlete to win the Lou Marsh Award as Canada's Athlete of the Year.
ORDER OF CANADA BACKGROUNDER
Established in 1967 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Order of Canada is the centrepiece of the Canadian Honours System, and recognizes a lifetime of 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 a lifetime of outstanding achievement and merit of the highest degree, especially in service to Canada or to humanity at large
Officer – Post-nominal: O.C.
Recognizes a lifetime of achievement and merit of a high degree, especially in service to Canada or to humanity at large
Member – Post-nominal: C.M.
Recognizes a lifetime of distinguished service in or to a particular community, group or 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 St. Edward's Crown.
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. They may be considered for outstanding achievement that reflects honour on Canada and/or lifetime contributions to humanity at large. 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.
For more information about the Order of Canada or to nominate someone, visit the Honours section of our Web site at www.gg.ca.