Gov. Gen. Mary Simon has announced 80 appointments to the Order of Canada — a list that includes Olympians, journalists, Indigenous leaders and doctors.
Simon’s office announced six new companions, the highest level of the Order of Canada; 15 officers; and 59 members, the introductory level in the order. Six appointments are a promotion within the Order of Canada and another is an honorary appointment.
“The Order of Canada fosters a sense of pride and cohesion in our country,” the Governor General said in a statement. “Every appointment celebrates not only the talent, expertise and dedication of individuals, but also the countless lives they have touched through their work, vision and contributions.”
Among the appointments is seven-time Olympic medallist Andre De Grasse. The sprinter made history at the 2016 Olympics as the first Canadian to win a medal in all three sprint events. His gold medal finish at the 2020 Olympics was the first Canadian Olympic gold in track in 25 years.
Beyond track, De Grasse is being named a member of the order for his philanthropic efforts with Canadian youth.
“While the medals I’ve won on the track mark my achievements as an athlete, I never wanted to be defined by them. I’ve always wanted to use my platform for something greater, to inspire and empower others through my charitable work and as an author,” De Grasse told CBC News in a statement.
“Being named to the Order of Canada is a meaningful recognition of that mission and motivates me to continue to make Canadians proud of my efforts both on and off the track.”
Olympic gymnast Ellie Black has also been named a member of the order. The four-time Olympian is the 2017 world all-around silver medallist, making her the first Canadian gymnast to win a world all-around medal.
“Representing this country has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. This recognition reinforces my belief that sport can be a powerful platform for leadership, progress and positive impact,” Black told CBC News in a statement.
“I hope this encourages young people to believe in themselves, embrace challenges and understand that their passion can create lasting, meaningful change.”
Among the six Canadians appointed to the highest honour of companion of the order is former Supreme Court Justice Michael Moldaver, for his leadership and dedication in strengthening Canada’s justice system.
Moldaver called the appointment an “unexpected honour and privilege.”
“While many are more deserving, I have tried throughout my professional life to preserve and protect our justice system and to serve the people of Canada to the best of my ability,” said Moldaver in a statement to CBC News.
Thoracic surgeon Shaf Keshavjee has also been promoted to a companion of the order. He is the surgeon-in-chief at the University Health Network and the director of the Toronto Lung Transplant Program.
Asked about the honour, Keshavjee told CBC News “many people with end-stage lung disease are alive today due to advances in lung preservation and ex-vivo lung repair for transplantation.”
Canadian wine pioneer Donald Triggs, known for one of Canada’s most successful wine brands, Jackson-Triggs, has been appointed an officer to the order for reshaping Canada’s wine industry.
“I’m delighted with the way Canadian wine has received recognition over the last 40 years and come into its own, and I’ve been very fortunate to be a part of that,” Triggs told CBC News.
Journalists and TV personalities also received appointments for their contributions to Canadian arts and culture.
Music journalist Nardwuar the Human Serviette has earned a devoted global following through his distinctive interview style, tireless research and passion for music.
In a statement to CBC News, Nardwuar dedicated his appointment as a member to the order to his late mother. “[She] taught me so much about history, local independent media and the value of research,” he said. “I know that she would be, like me, overcome with joy.”
Mandy (Bear) Rennehan — known by many as the “Blue Collar CEO” — is an entrepreneur and TV personality who champions skilled trades, especially for women and underrepresented groups.
“I have been doing this work, in this industry, for the last 30 years, and to be recognized by my country and welcomed as an officer of the Order of Canada, has made this East Coaster smile and raise a glass,” Rennehan told CBC News.
Former CBC journalist Rassi Nashalik was the inaugural host of the public broadcaster’s first Inuktitut-language daily TV program, Igalaaq. Nashalik has been appointed a member of the order for being a trusted voice for Canada’s North and advocate for the preservation of Inuit language and culture.
“Language and culture is a part of me, as I was brought up very traditionally,” Rassi told CBC News. “I think that we should be so proud to use our language and practice our culture to the fullest so that we could pass it on to our generations to come.”
Journalist Bert Crowfoot — also known as Kiyo Sta’ah and Gayutalas — said he “never in his wildest dreams” imagined receiving an honour such as being appointed officer of the Order of Canada, adding it is a point of pride to see more Indigenous people receiving the honour. Crowfoot is also the CEO of the Aboriginal Multi-Media Society of Alberta.
Cree writer, activist and Sixties Scoop survivor Michelle Good has been appointed a member for her advocacy for reconciliation, truth and respect.
“The motto of the Order of Canada is Desiderantes meliorem patriam, which is Latin for ‘They desire a better country.’ If my work can be considered as contributing to a better country by inspiring compassion, inclusivity, diversity and creativity, then I am inspired to do more,” Good told CBC News in a statement.
