Companions

The Honourable Rosalie Silberman Abella, C.C.
Toronto, Ontario

Rosalie Silberman Abella is an icon of Canadian values. Born in a displaced persons camp to Holocaust survivors, she became the first Jewish woman on Canada’s Supreme Court. She set the bar with her landmark constitutional law rulings and shaped equality and human rights worldwide. She is now an esteemed professor at the Harvard Law School.

 

Simon Brault, C.C., O.Q.
Saint-Jean-de-Matha, Quebec

Simon Brault is a pillar of the arts and culture sector. As director of the Canada Council for the Arts, he redefined its role by focusing on democratization and accessibility, strengthening support for artists, including those from diverse backgrounds and Indigenous communities. A tireless advocate, he worked to highlight the fundamental importance of culture in all spheres of society.
This is a promotion within the Order.

 

Raffi Cavoukian, C.C., O.B.C.
Salt Spring Island, British Columbia

A beloved songwriter and entertainer, Raffi has dedicated his life to championing children’s rights and well-being. His songs have impacted generations with his message of love, environmental stewardship and social responsibility. As the creator of the Raffi Foundation for Child Honouring, he has shaped our modern discourse to ensure a safe future for the children of the world.
This is a promotion within the Order.

 

Shaf Keshavjee, C.C., O.Ont.
Toronto, Ontario

Shaf Keshavjee is a premier thoracic surgeon-scientist whose groundbreaking work has transformed transplant surgery globally. He continues to expand possibilities within regenerative medicine, particularly through advancements in lung preservation during critical transplant procedures. He also excels as an educator and hospital administrator, shaping the future of health care through innovation and leadership.
This is a promotion within the Order.

 

The Honourable Michael James Moldaver, C.C., K.C.
Ottawa, Ontario

Michael Moldaver is recognized for his distinguished service to Canadian law. As a Supreme Court Justice, he shaped criminal law and Charter jurisprudence. A respected educator and mentor, he contributed to legal scholarship and professional development, strengthening Canada’s justice system through decades of leadership, insight, and unwavering dedication.

 

D. Lorne J. Tyrrell, C.C., A.O.E.
Edmonton, Alberta

A distinguished professor and clinician-scientist at the University of Alberta, Lorne Tyrrell leads groundbreaking virology research as director of the Li Ka Shing Institute. His pivotal role in Canada’s pandemic response, mentorship of emerging scientists, and prolific publications underscore his enduring impact on medical science, public health and innovation.
This is a promotion within the Order.

Officers

John Cameron Bell, O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario

John Bell has helped develop oncolytic virotherapy treatments that harness the body’s immune system to fight cancer. As an entrepreneur, principal investigator, national research network lead and professor at the University of Ottawa, he has built Canada’s foundation in the field, while driving research that shapes international progress.

 

The Honourable Janice Charette, P.C., O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario

Janice Charette is a renowned and highly respected former public servant noted for having served twice as clerk of the Privy Council, Canada’s most senior public service role. Her nearly 40-year career is marked by in-depth government expertise, non-partisan leadership, and a steadfast commitment to serving Canadians with integrity and dedication.

 

Bert Cecil Crowfoot, O.C.
Edmonton, Alberta

Bert Crowfoot is a member of the Siksika First Nation (Blackfoot) and is a respected journalist and acclaimed photographer. He is the founder and CEO of the Aboriginal Multi-Media Society of Alberta, a news and communications society dedicated to creating media that reflects the values of Indigenous people across Canada.

 

Adele Diamond, O.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Adele Diamond is a groundbreaking researcher and co-founder of the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience. Through collaborations integrating diverse disciplines and her talent for knowledge translation, she has transformed our understanding of early cognitive development and the brain’s prefrontal cortex. She has also shaped social policies, and improved medical and educational practices worldwide.

 

Janice J. Eng, O.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Janice Eng is an international leader in neurological rehabilitation. Through her influential research, she has advanced treatments and shaped clinical practice worldwide, notably in the delivery of upper and lower extremity recovery after stroke. She has improved the quality of life for thousands of patients in Canada and beyond.

 

Judy Illes, O.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Judy Illes is a distinguished university scholar at the University of British Columbia and director of Neuroethics Canada. An esteemed mentor and collaborator, she has made groundbreaking contributions to biomedical ethics and neuroscience, and is a proponent of Indigenous knowledge as a vital source for reframing Western medicine.
This is a promotion within the Order.

 

Praveen Jain, O.C.
Kingston, Ontario

Praveen Jain, a leading inventor in electrical energy processing, has advanced efficient power generation, transmission and use through electronics. A Queen’s University professor and founder of its Centre for Energy and Power Electronics Research, he has shaped the field while mentoring more than 100 trainees, earning recognition as an outstanding educator and innovator.

 

Anne-Marie Mes-Masson, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec

Anne-Marie Mes-Masson is a global leader in molecular oncology. An affiliated researcher at the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, she had a hand in developing biobanks and led several major scientific initiatives that have resulted in significant discoveries in ovarian and prostate cancer. By focusing on translational research, her work has improved both precision health and therapeutic approaches.

 

J. Curtis Nickel, O.C.
Sydenham, Ontario

J. Curtis Nickel is one of the world’s leading urologists. This professor emeritus at Queen’s University conducted landmark studies that reshaped the clinical understanding of infectious, inflammatory and pain-related diseases of the bladder and prostate. His work has significantly improved the quality of life for millions of patients around the world.

 

Mandy Rennehan, O.C.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Mandy Rennehan is a dynamic entrepreneur, philanthropist and TV personality who champions skilled trades, especially for women and under-represented groups. She empowers others through mentorship, scholarships and training programs. As a passionate and inspiring public speaker, she shares her journey to advocate inclusive opportunities in education and professional development.

 

Federico Rosei, O.C., C.Q.
Quebec

Federico Rosei is an internationally recognized nanotechnology specialist. His seminal, prolific and impactful contributions in materials engineering and energy science have enabled practical applications, and the development and improvement of key technologies, including solar and renewable energy. An esteemed academic and professional association leader, he advocates the advancement of science globally.

 

Roseann Runte, O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario

Roseann Runte is a visionary leader and trailblazer in academia and science. As president of Carleton University, she expanded its infrastructure and elevated its national and international reputation. She later strengthened Canada’s research capacity as head of the Canada Foundation for Innovation, ensuring its competitiveness on the global stage.
This is a promotion within the Order.

 

Chandrakant Padamshi Shah, O.C., O.Ont.
Mississauga, Ontario

Professor emeritus at the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Chandrakant Shah transformed public health education nationwide and championed Indigenous health throughout his career. He reshaped Canada’s citizenship exam and established the country’s first endowed Indigenous health chair, leaving a profound legacy of inclusion, scholarship and systemic reform.

 

Donald Lawrence Triggs, O.C.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Donald Triggs’ visionary leadership reshaped Canada’s wine industry, notably growing Vincor International into its largest producer and marketer. His entrepreneurial drive extended to influential roles in industry organizations. Beyond business, he is a committed philanthropist who supports education and the arts with passion and purpose, leaving a lasting impact on multiple sectors.

 

Marina Andrea Graefin von Keyserlingk, O.C.
North Vancouver, British Columbia

Marina von Keyserlingk, a UBC professor and global leader in animal welfare science, has transformed the way people think about farm animals. Her influential work has guided animal agriculture towards meaningful change worldwide. As a dedicated mentor, she has established a legacy of leadership and innovation within her field.

Members

A. Peter Annan, C.M.
Mississauga, Ontario

Peter Annan has made transformative contributions to the field of near-surface geophysics for more than five decades. A distinguished engineer, he revolutionized subsurface exploration by introducing airborne electromagnetic and ground-penetrating radar systems. Through his companies, he provides advanced prospecting solutions for scientific research and industrial applications to clients worldwide.

 

Phyllis A. Arnold, C.M.
Edmonton, Alberta

Phyllis A. Arnold is an esteemed educator and former writer and publisher who produced teaching materials about Canada’s rich history for students in grades 4 to 12. She is also a generous philanthropist who sponsors medical and educational scholarships in history and geography, and the professional development of teachers in geography.

 

Stephen Beckta, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Stephen Beckta is an entrepreneur whose fine dining establishments are celebrated among Ottawa’s iconic restaurants. He is also admired for his community service as a long-time board member and former chair of the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa, and for his engagement with organizations whose programs positively impact the lives of Canadians.

 

Elsabeth Black, C.M., O.N.S.
Halifax, Nova Scotia

Ellie Black, one of Canada’s most accomplished gymnasts, has elevated the sport nationally through her international success, boosting visibility and funding. Her achievements have inspired young athletes to pursue gymnastics, while her mentorship continues to shape and support fellow gymnasts, leaving a legacy on Canada’s athletic and training landscape.

 

Mark S. Bonham, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Mark Bonham is an esteemed expert in financial services, a dedicated leader in the 2SLGBTQI+ community, and a long-standing champion of post-secondary education. He has shared his business acumen as a board member of notable organizations, and his transformational philanthropy has had a lasting impact on the 2SLGBTQI+ community and educational sectors.

 

Kim Ruth Brooks, C.M.
Halifax, Nova Scotia

Kim Brooks is a tax lawyer, professor and human rights advocate who has advanced equity, accessibility and freedom of gender expression in higher education. As president of Dalhousie University, she champions Nova Scotia and is a thoughtful voice for inclusive leadership, transformative education and research that builds Canada’s future.

 

Wayne Richard Brownlee, C.M., S.O.M.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Wayne Brownlee is recognized for his leadership in Canadian business and philanthropy. As CFO of PotashCorp, he guided its evolution into Nutrien, a global agricultural leader. He has also made lasting contributions to education, heritage and health care through his generous support and dedicated service to charitable and community organizations.

 

Rosanna Caira, C.M.
Woodbridge, Ontario

Rosanna Caira is a cornerstone of Canada’s publishing and hospitality industries. A prolific journalist and podcast host, she leads the respected Foodservice and Hospitality and Hotelier magazines as editor and publisher. A trailblazing mentor, she champions initiatives that empower women to take on leadership roles in these traditionally male-dominated sectors.

 

The Honourable Richard J. F. Chartier, C.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Richard Chartier is recognized for his leadership in improving access to justice and language rights in Manitoba. As chief justice, he championed bilingual proceedings and institutional renewal. His landmark report on French-language services has had a lasting impact, as has his commitment to reconciliation and Francophone community services.

 

Terri Clark, C.M.
London, Ontario and Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America

Canadian country music icon Terri Clark has left an indelible mark on the genre at home and abroad. Notably, she was the first Canadian female inducted into the Grand Ole Opry. Her trailblazing career inspires countless Canadian artists, opening doors for international recognition and elevating the country music landscape across borders.

 

Penny Dorothy Collenette, C.M., O.Ont.
Ottawa, Ontario

Penny Collenette is a distinguished public figure, educator, lawyer and commentator whose multifaceted career spans business, academia and politics. A champion of women’s leadership, she has worked to boost representation in government and corporate spheres. Her expertise in public policy makes her a respected speaker and influential voice in Canada.

 

Patrick George Croskerry, C.M.
Halifax, Nova Scotia

Patrick Croskerry, a leading expert in emergency medicine, enhances patient care by analyzing factors that contribute to diagnostic errors. As professor and director of Dalhousie University’s Critical Thinking Program, he developed curricula and training to strengthen clinical judgment and risk assessment, shaping future health care practitioners by focusing on safety and precision.

 

Jane Laurine Darville, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Jane Darville is a health care administrator and community health specialist. She is renowned for her creative and compassionate leadership in specialized health care populations, notably as a founding board member and executive director of Toronto’s Casey House HIV/AIDS hospital and as executive director of Vancouver’s Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, two world-leading organizations.

 

Andre De Grasse, C.M., O.Ont.
Markham, Ontario

Seven-time Olympic medallist Andre De Grasse made history at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, as the first Canadian to medal in all three sprint events. He repeated the feat at Tokyo 2020 and added a seventh medal in Paris 2024. Beyond the track, this philanthropist and author empowers youth to fulfil their potential. 

 

Mark Dobbin, C.M.
Portugal Cove–St. Philip’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

Mark Dobbin, founder of Killick Capital Inc., is a dedicated investor, mentor and entrepreneurship advocate. Deeply committed to Newfoundland and Labrador’s economic and cultural vitality, he supports local growth through philanthropy and volunteerism. His contributions span education, the arts and technology, reflecting a passion for community development and innovation across multiple sectors.

 

Chris Dodd, C.M.
Edmonton, Alberta

Chris Dodd is a Deaf performing artist, playwright and accessibility advocate who has worked in Edmonton’s theatre community for more than 25 years. Founder and artistic director of SOUND OFF, Canada’s national theatre festival for the Deaf performing arts, he entertains and educates audiences on the experience of being a Deaf person in a hearing world.

 

Sheila Dawn Early, C.M.
Surrey, British Columbia

Sheila Early is a leader in forensic nursing. She developed British Columbia’s first forensic nurse program, which provides survivors of violence with improved access to essential, patient-centred and trauma-informed services, and changed how health care, legal and law professionals respond to violence. She also created Canada’s first classroom-delivered forensic health sciences certificate program.

 

Mary Ann Edwards, C.M.
St. Catharines, Ontario

Mary Ann Edwards is a passionate community builder. Founder and long-time volunteer director of the Rankin Cancer Run—Niagara’s signature and most impactful annual fundraising event—she has engaged and mobilized community members, advocated the importance of social responsibility and raised millions of dollars for the region’s cancer care clinics.

 

Kathleen Fox, C.M.
Gatineau, Québec

Aviator Kathleen Fox has made vital contributions to transportation safety for decades. As chair of the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, she championed the development of policies and changes to regulations that reduced risks for all travellers. A trailblazing mentor, she has empowered women to pursue leadership roles in the field.

 

Michelle Frances Good, C.M.
Maple Creek, Saskatchewan

Michelle Good is a member of the Red Pheasant Cree Nation who is esteemed for her work as an activist, lawyer and storyteller. A survivor of the Sixties Scoop and the intergenerational trauma of the residential school system, she has confronted laws that continue to hurt Indigenous communities and advocates reconciliation, truth and respect.

 

Elly Gotz, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Elly Gotz is a Holocaust survivor and renowned educator who has mentored hundreds of thousands of students over three decades at education centres, high schools and universities. His acclaimed memoir speaks to the importance of understanding the conditions that bring about genocide and serves as a genuine counterweight to Holocaust deniers.

 

Gerald W. Grandey, C.M., S.O.M.
Denver, Colorado

Gerald Grandey is among the top leaders in nuclear energy. Former CEO of Cameco, he built a world-class Canadian presence in the sector and advocated nuclear energy as part of the solution to climate change. He was also instrumental in establishing Canada’s nuclear co-operation ties with multiple countries.

 

Reesa Greenberg, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Reesa Greenberg is recognized for her innovative contributions to art history and museology. A trailblazer in feminist and exhibition studies, she has advanced digital documentation of Canadian art and supported key cultural institutions. Her transformative philanthropy includes restoring Canada’s Pavilion in Venice, ensuring its legacy for future generations.

 

Hans-Jürgen Greif, C.M.
Québec, Quebec

Hans-Jürgen Greif is renowned for his contributions to literature, teaching and cultural exchanges. Professor emeritus and prolific author, he has enriched migrant literature in Quebec and promoted multilingualism. Through his generous donations to artistic and educational institutions, he has made a lasting cultural impact and facilitated access to music and knowledge.

 

James C. Hathaway, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia

James Hathaway is one of the world’s leading scholars of public international law. This professor emeritus of law at the University of Michigan reconceived refugee protection as surrogate protection of human rights, and designed a global refugee regime based on collectivized responsibility. His seminal work is dedicated to justice for the displaced.

 

James William Hewitt, C.M.
Dorval, Quebec

James Hewitt is a prominent business leader and philanthropist. After taking the helm of Hewitt Equipment Limited, he grew it into one of Canada’s largest heavy equipment distributors. Through the Hewitt Foundation, his philanthropy has bolstered education, health care and community development organizations, primarily in eastern Canada.

 

Charles A. Hopkins, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Charles A. Hopkins is an esteemed educator at the forefront of education for sustainable development. As inaugural holder of the UNESCO Chair in Reorienting Education Towards Sustainability at Toronto’s York University, he has been instrumental in promoting sustainability as a core education principle, inspiring generations of learners to help shape a better future.

 

Ian Ihor Orest Ihnatowycz, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Ian Ihnatowycz is a philanthropic leader. Leveraging his success in business, he and his wife established the Ihnatowycz Family Foundation to support education, health care and arts initiatives. Beneficiaries include Western University’s Ivey Business School, The Royal Conservatory of Music, the Ukrainian Canadian Care Centre, Waterloo Eye Institute and SickKids hospital.

 

Eddy Isaacs, C.M.
Edmonton, Alberta

For decades, Eddy Isaacs has been driving energy research in Alberta. He notably led the Alberta Energy Research Institute and the Alberta Innovates Energy and Environmental Solutions Corporation, championing critical areas of energy and environmental research. He has also served on industry boards and with the Canadian Academy of Engineers.

 

Alfred Morris Kwinter, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Alfred Kwinter is regarded as one of Canada’s leading personal injury, property loss and insurance law lawyers. He has championed plaintiffs in landmark cases, served as director of the Advocates’ Society, and supported legal education initiatives with societies and associations. He also contributed his leadership to various boards, foundations and programs.

 

Gillian Kydd, C.M.
Roberts Creek, British Columbia

Educator Gillian Kydd has reshaped how children learn and how teachers think about learning. She is the co-founder of the Open Minds/Beyond the Classroom Network, which takes teachers and students out of the classroom and into the community for week-long, hands-on experiences. Her innovative approach has inspired and engaged educators and thousands of participants, fostering curiosity and lifelong learning across Canada.

 

Martha Langford, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Martha Langford’s impact on visual culture in Canada has advanced our understanding and appreciation of the arts. An art historian and esteemed scholar in the field of photographic arts, she helped establish photography as a discipline in Canada, and has developed quintessential collections of our country’s finest photographic works in museums and galleries.

 

Roger J. Lewis, C.M.
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

Roger Lewis, a Mi'kmaq historian and archaeologist from the Sipekne’katik First Nation, has profoundly shaped Indigenous cultural preservation in Nova Scotia. His work documenting Mi’kmaq land use, oral histories and cultural practices have strengthened community knowledge and education. He also leads archaeological training and residential school site excavation efforts.

 

William Joseph Logan, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

William Logan is one of Canada’s foremost leaders in pediatric neurology. Through his myriad contributions to research, academic leadership, education and patient care, he helped grow the discipline internationally. He was also among the first in his field to develop expertise in children’s movement disorders and brain function investigative techniques.

 

Elizabeth MacLeod, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

An award-winning children’s author, Elizabeth MacLeod has written compelling narratives that make topics like science and history accessible and exciting for young readers. Some of her works have showcased features, events and prominent individuals who have shaped the nation’s identity, helping children become critical thinkers and involved in their communities.

 

Allison Joan McGeer, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Allison McGeer is one of Canada’s most trusted epidemiological policy advisors. She coordinated the Toronto hospitals’ SARS response and worked with the WHO during the MERS and Ebola outbreaks. A key figure in the COVID-19 pandemic, she has shaped national and global strategies for preventing infections through science and leadership.

 

Irene Y. McNeill, C.M.
Aurora, Ontario

Irene McNeill has helped develop the sport of sailing in Canada and beyond. She is frequently invited to officiate at grassroots and elite competitions, and is the first Canadian woman to earn the designation of international race officer. She also co-founded the LEAP program to encourage girls’ participation in the sport.

 

Rassi Nashalik, C.M.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Rassi Nashalik is a trusted voice for Canada’s North. As the inaugural host of CBC’s Igalaaq, the first Inuktitut-language daily television newscast, she helped connect communities and keep residents informed. She is a valued advocate for the preservation of Inuit language and culture, and a sought-after Elder and community advisor.

 

Muzammal Nawaz, C.M.
Burlington, Ontario

Muzammal Nawaz is a leader in kickboxing in Canada. By establishing the first-ever national federation, he legitimized the sport in this country and provided a structure for its development. A five-time world professional middleweight champion, he is a globally sought after sport consultant supporting many internationally successful athletes and coaches.

 

Pamela Joan Newall, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Pamela Newall is an internationally recognized leader in forensic science. She has significantly impacted the field through her long-time work in the identification, development, validation and implementation of emerging DNA analysis technologies. A prolific expert witness, she helped this novel science meet the threshold of reliability, thereby enhancing Canada’s legal system.

 

Brenda Okorogba, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Brenda Okorogba champions equitable access to education and workforce opportunities for diverse communities. As a learning facilitator, she helps individuals from varied socio-cultural backgrounds develop personal and professional skills. She has successfully secured millions in scholarships and grants, and is globally sought after for her expertise in equity-centred program design, resource mobilization and system change.
This is an honorary appointment.

 

Patricia O’Malley, C.M.
Stratford, Ontario

Chartered professional accountant Patricia O’Malley has redefined financial reporting and standard setting. Her leadership in developing and implementing the International Financial Reporting Standards ensured greater consistency and transparency in accounting practices. This trailblazer has influenced the profession worldwide as one of the first women to serve in senior roles traditionally held by men. 

 

Brendan John Paddick, C.M.
Freeport, Bahamas and Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador

Brendan Paddick, a prominent entrepreneur and executive, has made significant contributions to telecommunications and energy. As co-founder of the Dollar A Day Foundation, he champions mental health and addiction support. His dedication to community, health care and social services reflects a deep commitment to improving lives in his home province and beyond.

 

Susan Phillips, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Professor emerita at Carleton University, she founded Canada’s only graduate program in philanthropy. A leading scholar with 40 years of impact, she has shaped non-profit research, mentored hundreds, and influenced public policy. Her award-winning work and editorial leadership have positioned Carleton as a global leader in non-profit and philanthropic studies.

 

Alamin Proton Rahman, C.M., O.N.L.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

Proton Rahman, a renowned genomics expert and Memorial University professor, is transforming arthritis care in Canada. Notably, he created the Newfoundland Genealogy Database to trace genetic disease links across generations. As a provincial scientific advisor, he played a key role in shaping Newfoundland and Labrador’s COVID-19 response, and in advancing public health and medical research.

 

James Retallack, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

James Retallack is Canada’s leading scholar of modern German history. Recognized as an international authority in the field, he has advanced public debate about democracy. As one of the first Anglo-American academics to conduct research in the former East Germany, he has uncovered new sources and writes innovatively about political history.

 

Jean Robert, C.M.
Québec, Quebec

Jean Robert is known for his commitment to education and advocating for English‑language services in Quebec. A longtime educator and community leader, he has promoted access to education and health care, championed bilingualism and played a key role in strengthening English-language institutions. He also serves as chair of the National Battlefields Commission.

 

Whitney Michelle Rockley, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Whitney Rockley is a pillar of Canada’s venture capital industry. Co-founder of McRock Capital, she is a transformative and inspirational leader who has advanced diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across private capital. As the first woman to chair the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, she has opened doors for under-represented communities.

 

Leonard Schein, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Leonard Schein is a cultural leader and philanthropist. He founded Festival Cinemas, the Vancouver International Film Festival, and Alliance Atlantis Cinemas. He has contributed to various boards related to the arts, community, business, environment and health care, and his Schein Foundation supports dozens of organizations, charities and social impact initiatives.

 

Walter John Schroeder, C.M. and Maria Schroeder, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Devoted philanthropists Walter and Maria Schroeder have dedicated their lives to helping others. Through their private foundation, generous donations and hands-on involvement, they have enriched their community. Their contributions sparked major initiatives in health care, culture and education, and have empowered Indigenous youth and supported underserved communities.

 

Cindy Schwartz, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Cindy Schwartz has played a key role in championing diversity across arts and media. As founder, artistic and general director of Les Muses, Canada’s first full-time professional performing arts training program for neurodivergent adults, she has fostered representation, empowered artists, and expanded opportunities for meaningful participation in cultural life.

 

Nardwuar the Human Serviette, C.M.
West Vancouver, British Columbia

Nardwuar the Human Serviette is a music journalism and popular culture innovator. As an independent music, and campus and community radio advocate, he has helped shape our identity, while also earning a devoted global following through his distinctive interview style, tireless research, and support for rising stars and celebrated names.

 

Karl Tomm, C.M.
Calgary, Alberta

Karl Tomm has played a pivotal role in shaping the field of family therapy. His groundbreaking frameworks of interpersonal patterns and interventive interviewing have significantly influenced therapy practices for helping families. For decades, he has provided mentorship and compassionate care as a psychiatrist, university professor and founder of the Calgary Family Therapy Centre.

 

Ziya Tong, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia

Ziya Tong, a broadcaster, author, science journalist and filmmaker, is dedicated to making science accessible. This respected environmental advocate highlights urgent issues like the climate crisis and wildlife conservation while promoting actionable solutions. A long-serving member of various boards and organizations, she remains committed to advancing awareness and animal rights through education and media.

 

Barry Truax, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Barry Truax is a leading authority in acoustic communication and electroacoustic music. This professor emeritus at Simon Fraser University created innovative tools and techniques used in his genre-defining compositions such as Riverrun (1986). As an original member of the World Soundscape Project, he has made significant contributions to acoustic ecology.

 

Michael Jon Villeneuve, C.M.
Mountain, Ontario

Health care leader Michael Villeneuve advanced nursing for more than four decades. Throughout his multifaceted career, notably as CEO of the Canadian Nurses Association, he led transformative reforms that expanded the roles of nurses nationwide. A sought-after mentor, he worked tirelessly to build a skilled and inclusive Canadian nursing workforce.

 

Della Wilkinson, C.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Della Wilkinson, a former RCMP research scientist, revolutionized fingerprint detection, positioning Canada as a global leader in forensic identification. Her innovations and refined protocols enhanced safety and effectiveness at challenging crime scenes. As a mentor and a role model, she inspired a generation of forensic professionals with her dedication and contributions.

 

John Mark Willinsky, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia and San Francisco, California, United States of America

John Willinsky has devoted his academic career to fostering public access to research. Underwritten by his scholarship on learned publishing, the Public Knowledge Project he founded has developed the world’s most widely deployed scholarly publishing platform, used by journals in 150 countries and 60 languages to publish freely accessible research.