Governor General Mary Simon has announced 80 new appointments to the Order of Canada, recognizing a diverse group of Canadians whose work spans sports, journalism, Indigenous leadership, medicine and the arts.
According to the Governor General’s office, the latest list includes six new Companions — the highest level of the Order — 15 Officers and 59 Members, the introductory rank. Six of the appointments represent promotions within the Order, while one is an honorary appointment.
“The Order of Canada fosters a sense of pride and cohesion in our country,” Simon said in a statement, noting that each appointment reflects not only individual excellence, but also the wide-reaching impact recipients have had on the lives of others.
Among those named is seven-time Olympic medallist Andre De Grasse, who is being appointed a Member of the Order of Canada. De Grasse made history at the 2016 Olympic Games as the first Canadian to medal in all three sprint events and later captured Canada’s first Olympic gold in track in 25 years at the Tokyo Games in 2020. His appointment also recognizes his philanthropic work supporting Canadian youth.
De Grasse said the honour affirms his desire to use his platform beyond athletics. He described the recognition as motivation to continue inspiring others through charitable work and writing.
Olympic gymnast Ellie Black has also been named a Member of the Order. The four-time Olympian became the first Canadian gymnast to win a world all-around medal when she captured silver in 2017. Black said the honour reinforces her belief that sport can be a powerful force for leadership and positive change, particularly for young people.
Six Canadians were appointed to the Order’s highest rank of Companion, including former Supreme Court justice Michael Moldaver. Moldaver was recognized for his leadership and long-standing dedication to strengthening Canada’s justice system. He described the appointment as an unexpected honour and said his career had been devoted to serving Canadians and upholding the rule of law.
Thoracic surgeon Shaf Keshavjee was also promoted to Companion. As surgeon-in-chief at University Health Network and director of the Toronto Lung Transplant Program, Keshavjee has played a key role in advancing lung preservation and transplant techniques that have saved countless lives.
Donald Triggs, a pioneer of Canada’s wine industry and co-founder of the Jackson-Triggs brand, was appointed an Officer of the Order for his role in reshaping Canadian winemaking. Triggs said he was proud to have contributed to the industry’s growth and international recognition over the past four decades.
Several journalists and media personalities were also honoured for their cultural contributions. Music journalist Nardwuar the Human Serviette, known worldwide for his distinctive interview style and deep research, was appointed a Member of the Order. He dedicated the honour to his late mother, crediting her for instilling in him a love of history, independent media and research.
Entrepreneur and television personality Mandy “Bear” Rennehan, often referred to as the “Blue Collar CEO,” was named an Officer of the Order for her advocacy on behalf of skilled trades and underrepresented groups. She said the recognition marked a meaningful milestone after decades of work in the industry.
Former CBC journalist Rassi Nashalik was appointed a Member of the Order for her role as the inaugural host of Igalaaq, the public broadcaster’s first daily Inuktitut-language television program. Nashalik was recognized as a trusted voice in the North and a strong advocate for Inuit language and culture.
Journalist Bert Crowfoot, also known as Kiyo Sta’ah and Gayutalas, was appointed an Officer of the Order. Crowfoot, who is also CEO of the Aboriginal Multi-Media Society of Alberta, said the honour reflects progress in recognizing Indigenous voices across the country.
Cree writer, activist and Sixties Scoop survivor Michelle Good was named a Member of the Order of Canada for her advocacy for reconciliation, truth and respect. Good said the recognition has inspired her to continue working toward a more compassionate, inclusive and equitable Canada.
