Patricia Demers, C.M.
Edmonton, Alberta
For her insightful contributions to the study of early works of English literature, and for her service to the academic community.
Patricia Demers is a tireless champion for the humanities and for the forgotten voices in Canadian literature. A professor at the University of Alberta, she studies the literary works of women and children that have been largely overlooked, highlighting their significance to our cultural identity. As vice-president of the Social Science and Humanities Council, and the first woman to serve as president of the Royal Society of Canada, she has championed the valuable role that humanities play in ensuring a fair and open society through the growth of informed citizens and leaders.