Joan Diane Gullen, M.S.C., Gloucester, Ont.
Meritorious Service Cross (civil division)
A motivating force behind numerous community organizations, Ms. Gullen founded, in 1986, the Regional Co-ordinating Committee to End Violence Against Women. Since its inception, she has devoted countless hours and energy towards reducing violence against women and children. She forged new partnerships among local police forces, hospital workers and grassroots organizations representing women. As a result of her leadership, the organization has provided a model and structure for other social action groups across Canada. Ms. Gullen's humanitarian efforts have had a great impact on the communities of the entire Ottawa-Carleton region.