Investiture into the Order of Canada

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, invested 2 Companions, 15 Officers and 24 Members into the Order of Canada on Tuesday, November 20, 2018, at Rideau Hall.

During her opening remarks, the Governor General explained that: “Excellence is neither a given or an accident. Excellence is the result of a deliberate choice. The result of high intention, sincere effort and intelligent execution. It represents the wise choice of many alternatives.”

With his intellectual curiosity and extraordinary dedication to the administration of justice, Louis LeBel improved the Canadian judicial system. A retired justice of the Supreme Court of Canada and the Quebec Court of Appeal, he is known for his distinguished contributions, particularly for advancing Canadian labour, civil and criminal law. His thirst for knowledge and generous support of legal education have also inspired numerous jurists.

The spirit of innovation that drives Sophie D’Amours has had a positive impact on her community. She began her career as a researcher in forestry engineering, where she successfully led transdisciplinary projects. She then distinguished herself in leadership roles, notably as Université Laval’s vice rector of research and innovation, and currently serves as the university’s first female rector. Able to clarify complex issues and bring people together in common cause, she has received numerous awards and honours in recognition of her talent.

Elizabeth Eisenhauer is an international leader in clinical cancer research. Professor emerita at Queen’s University and former director of the Canadian Cancer Trials Group investigational drug program, she has played an influential role in helping shape cancer treatment through key advancements in clinical trials. Notably, she led the design of criteria to evaluate the response of tumours to therapy, and evaluated numerous new drugs now used routinely in cancer treatment. Renowned for her experience and expertise, she has served on numerous international professional and institutional committees, benefiting oncology research worldwide.

Carol Hopkins is a landmark influencer in the field of addictions and mental health. Executive director of the Thunderbird Partnership Foundation, she advocates for a holistic approach to healing and wellness for Indigenous people. Adept at traversing the worlds of traditional knowledge and academia, she has been instrumental in advancing national policy that blends western medicine with traditional healing practices, and which incorporates the use of Indigenous knowledge and customs taught by Elders. Her work is helping to improve outcomes for people affected by mental health issues and addictions.

An industrialist, entrepreneur and investor, Terence Matthews has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the IT and communications industries. Known for his business acumen, he has been a founder and funder of more than 100 successful companies in the high-technology sector, notably Mitel Corporation and Newbridge Networks. Lauded as a mentor, he has helped numerous young entrepreneurs launch their own companies. Through the philanthropic arm of his company, he has spearheaded and contributed to several beneficial projects in the National Capital Region, notably the development of Wesley Clover Parks.

Catherine O’Hara is a cultural trailblazer. A renowned Canadian actor, she first garnered attention for her writing and acting in the groundbreaking comedy series “SCTV” before moving on to a film career that now spans decades. Her remarkable talent has engendered many memorable performances in such blockbusters as Beetlejuice and Home Alone; additionally, she is lauded for her television roles, most recently in the hit series “Schitt’s Creek.” Her international success has inspired many artists and helped pave the way for the next generation of women in comedy.

Generations of athletes have benefited from Allan Andrews’ wisdom both on and off the ice. Founder of a renowned hockey school, he has mentored and coached thousands of players of all levels. His innovative curriculum, which has been emulated across the country and beyond, focuses on technical skills as well as lifelong lessons in sportsmanship and team spirit. Known for his generosity, he has been actively involved in many sports and wellness organizations in his community.

Mark Breslin has built a platform for Canadian comedy. Founder and CEO of Yuk Yuk’s, the country’s largest comedy chain, he is credited with helping to launch the careers of renowned Canadian comedians. With an open-door policy, his clubs are known for cutting-edge content that tackles controversial issues and fights censorship, while maintaining a commitment to promoting Canadian talent. He is also the co-founder of Humber College’s Comedy Writing and Performance program, where he continues to mentor and advise emerging comics.

Lynn Factor is an advocate for disadvantaged youth.  A social worker, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership in her field as a board member of Covenant House Toronto and as chair of its Sex Trafficking Committee, as well as past chair of the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada. Notably, through her work with the Boost Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, she prepares child victims and witnesses of crime to testify in criminal court. Her abiding commitment to social justice is apparent through the breadth of her community engagement and her transformative philanthropy.

Howard Gimbel has made pioneering contributions to the field of eye care. An ophthalmologist, he developed innovative techniques, notably in cataract surgery, that have improved outcomes for patients and set new standards worldwide. Moreover, his clinic was the first to introduce laser refractive eye surgery in Canada, a service that has revolutionized vision correction. The author of bestselling textbooks, he remains committed to sharing his expertise as a teacher in Canada and abroad, as well as through his live surgery broadcasts, YouTube training videos and speaking engagements.

Kay Nasser’s varied successes have benefited his adopted home. A newcomer to Canada from Lebanon, he was a professor of civil engineering at the University of Saskatchewan for over 30 years. Known for his research and inventions in building technology, he invented the K-Slump Tester, a device that measures the consistency of concrete and which was first used in the construction of the CN Tower. A property developer, philanthropist and engaged volunteer, he generously gives back to his community in support of education, health care and the arts.

Created in 1967, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Close to 7 000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order. Those who bear the Order’s iconic snowflake insignia have changed our nation’s measure of success and, through the sum of their accomplishments, have helped us build a better Canada.