Background

The Order of British Columbia was established by statute on April 21, 1989, to recognize those persons who have served with the greatest distinction and excelled in any field of endeavour benefiting the people of the Province or elsewhere. The Order represents the highest form of recognition the Province can extend to its citizens.

Appointment

Appointments to the Order are made by the Lieutenant-Governor in Council (Cabinet), on the recommendation of an Advisory Council. Members of the council include:

• The Chief Justice of British Columbia - Chairperson
• The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly
• The President, in turn, of British Columbia's Public Universities, for a two-year term
• The President of the Union of B.C. Municipalities
• The Deputy Minister responsible for the Order of British Columbia
• Two past recipients of the Order
  

Eligibility

Any resident of British Columbia, or former long-term resident, who has demonstrated outstanding achievement, excellence or distinction in any field of endeavour benefiting the people of the Province or elsewhere.

Fields of endeavour may consist, for example, of community leadership, business, labour, industry, volunteer service, the professions and other occupations, research, culture, the arts, sports and others.

Federal, provincial and municipal elected representatives are not eligible for appointment to the Order while they remain in office.

A person may not be appointed to the Order posthumously unless the Advisory Council recommends the appointment to the Lieutenant-Governor in Council before the person's death.