For his leadership in veterinary science and for his contributions to the development of national research centres that study disease vectors between animals and humans.
Norman Willis’ contributions to veterinary science have led to improved health protection for both animals and humans in Canada. He held senior positions at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, where he helped shape national policy on animal health and led international trade negotiations. He led the conception and design of a groundbreaking maximum biocontainment laboratory for animal and human health in Winnipeg, now a world leader in research on avian influenza. He has also served as the president of the World Organisation for Animal Health.