Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: October 5, 2006
• Invested on: October 26, 2007

For decades, our artistic and cultural communities have benefited from the commitment and generosity of Helen Gardiner. In 1984, she co-founded Toronto's Gardiner Museum, which has since grown into one of the foremost museums of ceramic art in North America. As chair of the Museum's expansion drive, she led the successful fundraising campaign for the construction of new galleries, education studios and research facilities. Her philanthropy has also benefited the Textile Museum of Canada, the Soulpepper Theatre, and the National Ballet of Canada, where she has reached out on a personal level to encourage and support young dancers.