Canada Honors 80 New Changemakers With Order of Canada Appointments
A fresh list of Order of Canada appointments has just been announced, and it brings together an impressive mix of judges, athletes, artists, public servants, and cultural icons who have helped shape the country in lasting ways. In total, 80 people have been named to the order this year, and the list reflects how broad and diverse Canadian excellence really is.
Among the most prominent names are former Supreme Court of Canada justices Rosalie Abella and Michael Moldaver, both of whom have been appointed as companions, the highest level within the Order of Canada. Their appointments were made by Governor General Mary Simon, who oversees the honour that recognizes extraordinary and sustained contributions to the nation. Since the order was created in 1967, more than 8,250 people have received this distinction, and anyone can nominate a candidate through a public process reviewed by an advisory council.
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Justice Abella’s story stands out as deeply personal and symbolic. She was born in a displaced-persons camp in Germany to Holocaust survivors and arrived in Canada as a refugee in 1950. In 2004, history was made when she became the first Jewish woman appointed to the Supreme Court. Her career has since been defined by landmark constitutional rulings and global influence on equality and human rights. The citation described her as an icon of Canadian values, and she herself called the honour a gift from a country that has already given her so much.
Justice Moldaver, who served on the Supreme Court from 2011 until 2022, was recognized for his lasting impact on Canadian criminal law and Charter jurisprudence. His work as a mentor, educator, and legal scholar was praised for strengthening the justice system through decades of steady leadership and dedication.
The list also celebrates excellence beyond the courtroom. Olympic sprint star Andre De Grasse was honoured for making history at the Rio Games as the first Canadian to medal in all three sprint events, a feat he repeated in Tokyo before earning a seventh medal in Paris. Country music legend Terri Clark was recognized for a trailblazing career that opened doors for Canadian artists worldwide. Music journalist Nardwuar the Human Serviette was honoured for reshaping pop culture interviews with his distinctive style and tireless research, earning a devoted global following.
Public service and philanthropy were also highlighted. Janice Charette, who twice served as clerk of the Privy Council and later as Canada’s High Commissioner to the U.K., was cited for nearly four decades of non-partisan leadership. Cultural builder Leonard Schein and children’s entertainer Raffi Cavoukian, who was promoted within the order, were recognized for contributions that have touched generations.
Altogether, this year’s appointees include six companions, 15 officers, and 59 members, forming a snapshot of Canada at its best. From law and sport to music, media, and public service, these honours reflect a country that continues to value dedication, creativity, and service in all its forms.
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