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Governor General to invest 33 recipients into the Order of CanadaOTTAWA––Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, will preside at an Order of Canada investiture ceremony at Rideau Hall on Friday, February 17, 2006, at 10:30 a.m.The Governor General, who is Chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order, will present 33 recipients with their insignia of membership. One Companion, 10 Officers and 22 Members will be invested. The Order of Canada recognizes people who have made a difference to our country. From local citizens to national and international personalities, all Canadians are eligible for the Order of Canada, our country's highest honour for lifetime achievement. Three different levels of membership honour people whose accomplishments vary in degree and scope: Companion, Officer and Member. The Order of Canada was established in 1967 to recognize outstanding achievement and service in various fields of human endeavour. Appointments are made on the recommendation of an advisory council chaired by the Chief Justice of Canada. The motto of the Order is Desiderantes meliorem patriam [They desire a better country]. A media schedule for the investiture ceremony (Annex A), a complete list of recipients (Annex B), a backgrounder (Annex C) and the recipient's citations (ANNEX D) are attached. To obtain the citations for the recipients, please visit our website at: www.gg.ca. -30- Media information Public information ANNEX A Members of the media are asked to observe the following schedule: 10:00 a.m. Ceremony begins Entrance of Their Excellencies The Governor General speaks The Governor General presents the insignia (Members first, followed by Officers and Companions) Noon
OFFICERS
MEMBERS
ANNEX D ORDER OF CANADA BACKGROUNDER
ANNEX C COMPANION: Richard E. Taylor, C.C. Richard Taylor has helped to usher in a new era of high energy physics. A graduate of the University of Alberta in the early 1950s, he continued his studies at Stanford University. After earning his doctorate there, he became a key member of an elite group of scientists who worked on the construction of its linear accelerator centre. Over the years, he helped to develop progressively sophisticated synchrotrons and conducted various electron scattering experiments that led to the discovery of the quark model in particle physics. In 1990, his ground-breaking research earned him the Nobel Prize for Physics and his international eminence as a scientist remains undisputed. OFFICERS: Lorne A. Babiuk, O.C., S.O.M. Lorne Babiuk's contributions to the control of infectious diseases have had a profound impact on the health and productivity of livestock. Professor of Veterinary Microbiology at the University of Saskatchewan, he is an international expert in veterinary virology and immunology. As director of the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), he has been instrumental in the design, development and commercialization of several innovative products. Under his leadership, VIDO has become one of Canada's pre-eminent research institutions. Widely sought for his expertise, he has served on numerous national and international committees as well as on the board of several biotechnology companies. Jean-Paul Desbiens, O.C., C.Q. Writer, teacher, administrator, and editorial writer, Jean-Paul Desbiens has had a profound impact on Quebec's social reforms. In 1960, he published Les insolences du Frère Untel which sparked controversial debates and stirred an awakening of thought while becoming the first best-seller of contemporary Quebec. In particular, this work called for massive reforms to the education system. A man of action, he also worked at Quebec's Ministry of Education to establish CEGEPs and to reform secondary education programs. Renowned for his knowledge and insight, he was chief editorial writer at La Presse and a member of the CBC's News Channels Branch of Management. Colonel Donald Stewart Ethell, O.C., O.M.M., A.O.E., M.S.C. (Retired) A retired veteran of 14 international peacekeeping deployments, Donald Ethell continues to distinguish himself, and Canada, through his humanitarian work. As a consultant to CARE Canada, he provided valuable advice to staff operating refugee camps in Somalia and Eastern Kenya. As the Alberta director of the International Committee for the Relief of Starving and Suffering (ICROSS), he has helped to ease the plight of tens of thousands of Africans by gathering donations of medical supplies and equipment. An active member of various veterans groups, he has also worked to preserve our rich military heritage for future generations. David W. Foster, O.C., O.B.C. David Foster's considerable musical talent is equalled only by his immense kindness and generosity. One of the most sought-after producers, he has not only collaborated with artists of international stature, he has also promoted lesser-known singers. While his career has reached new heights, he continues to support charities that benefit children. Over the years, his foundation has assisted numerous families of British Columbia children in need of major organ transplants. In addition, he has been praised for his work on behalf of organizations that conduct research on cancer, leukemia and AIDS. This is a promotion within the Order. Martin Godbout, O.C. A talented scientist and administrator, Martin Godbout is an innovator and one of the guiding lights of the Canadian biotechnology community. Specializing in physiology and molecular endocrinology, he taught at Université Laval before organizing the largest annual symposium on biopharmaceutical partnerships, BioContact. Recognized for his vision and innovative mind in the business and scientific communities, he has had a major hand in launching and developing Quebec technology firms. Currently President and CEO of Genome Canada, he continues to promote and support scientific excellence. Robin Phillips, O.C. Called an "actor's director", Robin Phillips is revered amongst members of Canada's acting community. While at the Stratford Festival, he created the Stratford Young Company where he mentored many of our nation's talents. A tremendous asset to the cultural life of Canada, he is also credited with bringing new life to the Citadel heatre in Edmonton and to theatres across the country. Sought after in England and across North America, he is known for his ability to inspire actors to discover their own voice. William Lawrence Sauder, O.C., O.B.C. William Sauder has provided insight, wisdom and leadership to benefit British Columbians. Chair and former CEO of International Forest Products (Interfor), he has been a guiding force in Western Canada's forest industry for over two decades. He has devoted a great deal of time and effort to the development of the University of British Columbia (UBC), serving as chair of its board of governors and as chancellor. He has also made generous contributions to UBC in order to establish a business school and to fund research chairs, particularly in the areas of pediatric and heart disease. Juan Cesar Scaiano, O.C. Juan Scaiano is one of Canada's most eminent chemists. His work has shaped the field of physical organic chemistry over the last 25 years and its impact has extended to the pharmaceutical, microelectronics and the pulp and paper industries. A renowned expert in the field of photochemistry, he pioneered the use of lasers to study and measure organic reactions. Distinguished professor at the University of Ottawa and holder of the Canada Research Chair in Applied Photochemistry, he has been an inspiring teacher to students, nurturing their creative spirit and conveying to them a sense of community responsibility. William A. Schabas, O.C. A law professor and committed activist, William Schabas is one of the foremost international authorities on genocide and on the death penalty. A member of several human rights organizations around the world, including the International Institute for Criminal Investigation, he played a pivotal role in the creation of the International Criminal Court in 1998. Now director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights, he serves as an example of Canada's contributions to international affairs and enhances our nation's reputation as a peacemaker. Judith Clare Thompson, O.C. A unique voice in Canadian dramatic literature, Judith Thompson is one of our distinguished playwrights. She burst onto the scene in 1980 with The Crackwalker, and her plays have since been translated into several languages and have won many awards. Her works are known for their masterful dialogue and characterization, nd the darkness she explores is treated with such exuberance, intelligence and even humour that one is left with a profound sense of hope. She has been called a jewel in Canada's crown and has made a powerful and lasting contribution to theatre in this country and abroad. MEMBERS: Steven K.H. Aung, C.M., A.O.E. A strong proponent of the synergy between western and eastern medicines, Steven Aung has a unique approach to healing that has had a distinct and lasting impact. After immigrating to Canada in 1974, he embarked on a mission to share traditional Chinese concepts of wellness, balance and harmony with health care professionals, students and patients. To this end, he founded the University of Alberta's Certificate Program in Medical Acupuncture, a Canadian first. Today, he is sought after for his expertise in pain management by the Cross Cancer Institute, the Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic and professional hockey and football sporting franchises based in Edmonton. Wayson Choy, C.M. Admired as a writer of stories that reflect the history of the Chinese community in Vancouver, Wayson Choy is equally known as a passionate, caring and motivating teacher. He is deeply committed to nurturing the process of self-awareness and discovery in his students. The humanity that he reflects in his writing is also very much resent in his personal life. Working from a place of compassion and true understanding of life's joys and sorrows, he consistently gives of himself, whether for the crusade against AIDS or through teaching at shelters for abused women, runaways and homeless children. Donald de Gagné, C.M. Donald de Gagné has been a courageous advocate for the rights and dignity of people around the globe who are living with HIV/AIDS. Dedicated to reducing the stigma and discrimination associated with this illness, he has served as vice-president of the Canadian AIDS Society and as a founding director of the Global Network of people Living with HIV/AIDS. He has helped organize many conferences and co-chaired the XV International AIDS Conference's Community Program Committee in 2004. In addition, he has worked with several non-governmental organizations to improve access to health care in developing countries. Dominique Demers, C.M. Communicator, novelist and script writer, Dominique Demers is known above all as one of our leading authors of literature for young people. Some of her books, such as Valentine Picotée and Marie-Tempête, have been normously popular and have won many awards. Her humour and ability to address delicate subjects in an intelligent, discerning way shine through in her work. A truly passionate writer, she has also done the screenplays, based on her novels, for some popular movies, including La Mystérieuse mademoiselle C. This former journalist and university researcher is a much sought-after speaker and she is known for her ardent respect for children and the importance of reading. Jean-Pierre Dubuc, C.M. A distinguished scientist, Jean-Pierre Dubuc has helped build one of Canada's most productive genetic improvement programs for spring cereals. When he was with he federal government's Soils and Crops Research and Development Centre, he played a leading role in the development and promotion of many new and high-quality varieties and his accomplishments have had a large impact on both domestic and foreign agricultural producers. He also took part in a number of scientific missions overseas and played a supporting role on provincial and national committees. Brian A. Felesky, C.M. Combining commitment with dedication, Brian Felesky has made substantial contributions to his profession and to his community over the last 25 years. He is a founding partner in the law firm, Felesky Flynn, and a former president of the Alberta Branch of the Canadian Bar Association. As founder and co-chair of HomeFront, he was instrumental in establishing a coordinated community program to reduce domestic violence. Bringing both focus and energy to his voluntary activities, he has served in leadership roles with the University of Calgary, the Canada West Foundation and the Institute of Modern Art. Abraham Gold, C.M. Abraham Gold's life story underscores decades of generosity, caring and helping others. A respected businessman, he has led many retailing and manufacturing companies for more than 50 years. This philanthropist has donated to a myriad of causes, primarily in the fields of social services, medical research and higher education. Notably, he has endowed chairs in cancer research and has been a generous benefactor to Concordia University and the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal. In addition, he has supported community projects and established the Harriet and Abe Gold Learning Centre for Autism and Development. Richard William Ivey, C.M. A dynamic volunteer and philanthropist, Richard Ivey has galvanized support among other business leaders to contribute to the vitality of the nation and its citizens. A lawyer by profession, he has served as a director of the Ivey family foundation since 1974. During his tenure, many academic and health institutions, as well as arts, cultural and environmental organizations have received substantial funding from the foundation. He has also dedicated his time and energy to the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, the University Health Network and the University of Western Ontario. Charles Joseph Jago, C.M. President and vice-chancellor of the University of Northern British Columbia, Charles Jago has steered the University's development into a major centre of teaching and research. He has worked to empower people in rural and First Nations communities through education. Among his many accomplishments is the creation of the Northern Medical Program to respond to a critical shortage of health care professionals in the North. His passion for the North led him to become one of the region's most respected advocates. Harish Chand Jain, C.M. Harish Chand Jain's contributions as an educator and activist span three decades and have influenced generations of students and policy-makers. A promoter of improved race relations, employment equity and human rights, he is a champion of marginalized groups. Professor emeritus of human resources and labour relations at McMaster University, he served as a member of the Canadian Human Rights Act Review Panel and as president of the Canadian Industrial Relations Association. Working unremittingly for the betterment of race relations, he continues to assist a number of private and public institutions, in Canada and abroad, to move owards true equality in the workplace. Mers Kutt, C.M. As a pioneer in the computer industry, Mers Kutt is responsible for several remarkable achievements in the field. Best known as the inventor of the first personal computer, he also developed the "key edit", an innovative entry data system, and the "all charge card" to increase computer speed and memory. He served as president of the Canadian Information Processing Society and was instrumental in organizing its first national IT conference in 1968. Thanks to his vision and ingenuity, new generations of cost-effective computer systems evolved. Dennice Leahey, C.M. Leading by example, Dennice Leahey has shown how corporate leaders can positively impact the voluntary sector. Former senior vice-president and ombudsman of RBC Financial Group, she has lent her expertise, energy and enthusiasm to organizations such as Mount Saint Vincent University, the North Cumberland Hospital, Manitoba A.L.I.V.E. and the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art. Highly respected for her integrity and etermination, she has mentored women in the banking industry as well as young volunteers and has actively promoted business and civic endeavours in Aboriginal communities. Ranee Lee, C.M. A dancer, actress and musician, Ranee Lee has been blessed with a wonderful voice. Known as one of Canada's most popular jazz vocalists, she is a remarkable and captivating performer with a dazzling stage resence. Throughout her career, she has performed with many jazz greats, toured in America and in Europe and has been featured in prestigious festivals. She has also appeared in several movies and various musicals, such as Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill and Dark Divas, The Musical. As the host of the television series "The Performers", she brought the talent of Canadian jazz musicians to the attention of North American audiences. This highly respected artist also shares her passion for jazz as a vocal instructor at McGill University. Kathleen Pratt LeGrow, C.M. Community service is the driving force behind Kathleen LeGrow's voluntarism. With determined and principled leadership, she actively participated in the reform of various public services in Newfoundland and Labrador. Deeply committed to education, she has served on numerous local, provincial and national boards, and was hair of the first nondenominational school board in St. John's. In addition to her responsibilities as president of a family-owned business, she served on the Premier's Council on Social Development, the Primary Health Care Advisory Council and co-founded a soup kitchen and outreach centre in her community. A. Wayne MacKay, C.M. With commitment and passion, Wayne MacKay has championed human rights, equality and diversity in Canadian society. A legal scholar, respected teacher and outspoken activist, this Dalhousie University professor is renowned for his expertise in the fields of constitutional law and the Charter of Rights. His leadership has benefited organizations such as the Dalhousie Law School Programme for Indigenous Blacks and Mi'kmaqs, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and the International Centre for Human Rights and Democracy. A former president of Mount Allison University, he continues to demonstrate an outstanding dedication to social justice. Brian F. MacNeill, C.M. Recognized for his business acumen, Brian MacNeill is also respected for his commitment to the community. He started his career in the petroleum industry in the early 1970s and rapidly rose through the ranks to serve in senior management positions. Chair of Petro-Canada and Dofasco, he is involved in activities dedicated to the ell-being of Albertans. He has served Mount Royal College, the University of Calgary, the United Way of Calgary and the Calgary Homeless Foundation's Endowment Campaign. A vigorous advocate for voluntarism, in his unassuming but effective way, he has become a leader by his personal example of unselfish concern for the welfare of others. Jean-Guy Moreau, C.M. For over 40 years, Jean-Guy Moreau has captivated audiences as a musician, entertainer and humorist. After starting out as a pianist, he ventured into the world of theatre, television, film and radio. He proceeded to carve out a very special place in the hearts of the French speaking public with his magnificent gifts as an impersonator and humorist. Mining the news for his material, he highlights the comical aspects of today's cultural, political and social scenes. His running commentary is funny and even biting, and his caricatures of artists and personalities from across the spectrum are small masterpieces of finesse and intelligence. This giant of comedy is also admired for having given generously of his time to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Quebec. Donald H. Penny, C.M. Donald Penny has been a pillar of his community for decades. Dedicated to enhancing Brandon's social, cultural and economic landscape, he has generously given of his time and expertise to a number of fundraising campaigns and organizations such as Brandon University, the United Way, the YMCA and the Indian and Metis Friendship Centre. Chairman and former CEO of the accounting firm, Meyers Norris Penny, he has guided many young professionals and has served in leadership roles with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Manitoba and the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants. Graham W.S. Scott, C.M. Graham Scott has volunteered his expertise to the development and promotion of public policy in Canada. Deeply committed to developing strategies and finding solutions to strengthen our health care system, he brought his ideas and broad experience to organizations such as Cancer Care Ontario, Organ Donation Ontario and the Canadian Institute for Health Information. His leadership has also benefited the Forum for Young Canadians, the Institute for Research on Public Policy and the Salvation Army Advisory Board. In addition, this practicing lawyer is a sought-after consultant on governance issues in the public and private sectors. Steve Smith, C.M. A writer, actor and producer, Steve Smith has been tickling the funny bone of audiences for the past three decades. His irascible yet loveable caricature, Red Green, is a modernday "Everyman". With his trusty roll of duct tape by his side, he leads a quirky cast of characters through endless adventures from their home base, the Possum Lodge. A respected figure in Canada's entertainment industry, he has furthered the careers of others at every opportunity. Tireless in his support of the Writers Guild of Canada and the Banff Television Festival, he is also active in the community. He is spokesperson for the Canadian Prostate Cancer Network and has helped to raise funds for a host of other good causes. Basil Stuart-Stubbs, C.M. Basil Stuart-Stubbs has displayed vision and boundless energy in his work on behalf of Canadian librarians, book publishers and authors. As the University Librarian at the University of British Columbia for many years, he was instrumental in establishing and guiding UBC Press and in organizing the first Conference on Western Regional Publishing in 1972. He was also one of the early proponents of public lending rights legislation to compensate writers for the use of their works in public libraries. More recently, he has served as a founding director of Simon Fraser University's Canadian Centre for Studies in Publishing. William Charles (Bill) Turner, C.M. Bill Turner has used his tremendous energy and selfless dedication to preserve his province's natural environment. A realtor, he founded the Land Conservancy of British Columbia (TLC) to advocate for the protection of the environment through conservation covenants and ecological gifts. As the driving force behind TLC, he has negotiated for the transfer of thousands of acres of land that the organization will care for in perpetuity. He has also played an active role in many regional and provincial conservation initiatives and has lectured on environmental law at the University of Victoria. |
