The Coronation Medal, a Canadian honour created to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, was launched by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, recognizing those who have made significant contributions to Canada and their home province.
The Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, has nominated a selection of exceptional British Columbians for the medal, with subsequent approval by the Chancellery of Honours in Ottawa. Across the country, the medal will be awarded to 30,000 deserving individuals, and is the first Canadian honour to mark a coronation.
Recipients of the Coronation Medal will be honoured at two ceremonies, one held in Victoria at Government House and one at HMCS Discovery in Vancouver, where Her Honour, on behalf of the Governor General, will award the medal to British Columbian recipients.
Recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medal – August 27 Ceremony at HMCS Discovery
Frank Aigner
Frank Aigner is a leader in the forestry and hotel sectors, with his unwavering commitment and global efforts in education, social causes, and supporting disadvantaged children having had a profound effect on countless lives. By investing in, revitalizing and renovating heritage buildings, bringing in sustainable businesses, and undertaking similar projects in Victoria’s Chinatown and Vancouver’s Gastown, Frank has helped to strengthen these communities.
Bridgitte Anderson
Bridgitte Anderson is the first female CEO in the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade’s 137-year history, and has transformed the organization, including creating one of the first Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Councils in the Canadian Chamber network, leading on crucial public policy initiatives to support BC’s business community and serving on prominent boards and committees. Recognized for her impactful leadership, she was named to Vancouver Magazine’s Power 50 List in 2023 and 2024.
John Thomas Anderson
John Anderson’s journey from humble beginnings as a warehouseman to the CEO of Oppenheimer Group is a shining example of his unwavering commitment to sustainable agriculture and community support. Under his guidance, Oppy has become a major player in the global fresh produce industry, employing thousands and farming vast hectares of land, and commitment to sustainability evident in Oppy’s environmentally friendly practices, such as using recyclable or biodegradable packaging. His initiatives have also had a significant impact on reducing water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to his environmental efforts, John is a generous philanthropist, donating millions to various social causes and community projects. His passion for aviation has even led to the establishment of Anderson Air, which provides vital transportation services for BC Transplant, saving lives in critical moments.
Michael Audain, OC, OBC
A homebuilder and philanthropist, Michael Audain has a distinguished record of support for the visual arts, reflecting his belief that art can play a positive role in the well-being of individuals and their communities, and thereby enriching and helping preserve the cultural heritage of British Columbia and Canada.
Assistant Deputy Warden Pamela Audley, AdeC
Representing British Columbia Corrections, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2021.
Kwuntiltunaat, Kim Baird, C.M., O.B.C., Hon. LL.D
Kwuntiltunaat – Kim Baird is an accomplished leader, a respected advocate for Indigenous people, and is nationally recognized for her work in Reconciliation. She is a graduate of Kwantlen Polytechnic University, receiving the Distinguished Alumni award in 2012, and currently serves as the University’s Chancellor. Kim’s life work has provided a foundation to create opportunities for the process of Reconciliation to exist/thrive, including acknowledging that First Nations have a right to self-determination, a quality of life equal to all, and in partnership with all people.
The Honourable Robert Bauman, KC
The Honourable Robert J. Bauman is the former Chief Justice of British Columbia and former Chief Justice of the Court of Appeal of Yukon. He was appointed as a justice of the Supreme Court of British Columbia in 1996; as a justice of the Court of Appeal for British Columbia in 2008; as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in 2009; and as Chief Justice of British Columbia in 2013. He retired on 1 October 2023. From 2013 to 2016, Mr. Bauman served as Vice Chair of the Canadian Judicial Council. He is the founding Chair of Access to Justice BC.
Bernard Beck
Secretary/Treasurer from the Government House Foundation, for outstanding community volunteerism.
Deputy Chief Conservation Officer Bill Bresser, AdeC
Representing British Columbia’s Conservation Services, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2005.
Gordon Campbell , OC, OBC
As Mayor of Vancouver, Gordon Campbell. established innovative social programs and planning initiatives that established the city’s reputation for livability. He served in BC’s Legislative Assembly for 17 years as Leader of the Opposition and Premier, and while Premier, worked to build new relationships with First Nations, hosted British Columbia’s highly successful 2010 Winter Olympic games, and led globally recognized initiatives on climate change while building BC’s reputation as an economic powerhouse and public policy innovator. Gordon later served as Canada’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
Christy Clark
Christy Clark, BC’s first elected female premier and Canada’s longest-serving woman in this role, transformed British Columbia into Canada’s economic leader for three consecutive years, a feat not seen since the 1960s. Under her leadership, BC went from ninth to first in job creation and maintained an AAA credit rating. Her government went on to achieve five consecutive balanced budgets. Clark’s ambitious vision for the LNG industry in the province culminated in the largest private sector investment in Canadian history.
Kenneth Cretney
Ken’s career has been largely dedicated to the progression of the hospitality and tourism industry. He has been in public service at B.C. Pavilion Corporation (PavCo) for the last decade and a half, first as the General Manager for the Vancouver Convention Centre, before being named Chief Operating Officer in 2013 and President and CEO in 2014. Prior to PavCo, Ken had a successful career in the hospitality industry, including leadership roles with Vancouver’s Marriott Pinnacle Hotel and the Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa.
Captain Vincent Cui, AdeC
Representing the Canadian Army, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2022.
Ajay Dilawri, OBC
Ajay Dilawri has made significant contributions to society through his successful career and philanthropic efforts, demonstrating exceptional leadership and innovation in the automotive industry with a commitment to excellence. Ajay’s philanthropic endeavors and charitable work has demonstrated a true commitment to giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.
Harbhajan Surinder Dhillon
Harbhajan Surinder, along with her late husband, founded the Richberry Group, one of Canada’s largest cranberry growers, with operations in British Columbia and Quebec, and the largest Canadian shareholder in Ocean Spray, a global food and beverage company. Surinder’s philanthropic efforts have positively impacted many Canadians.
Councilor Brian Frenkel
Brian Frenkel’s 24 years of local government involvement and his dedication and passion for community has been at the forefront of his advocacy. Brian believes people are the creators of change and his passion to effect change is central to why he has represented Vanderhoof and local governments from around British Columbia at the regional, provincial and federal level. Outside of his role as Councilor, Brian has been a board member with the Union of British Columbia Municipalities, North Central Local Government Association, Municipal Insurance Association of British Columbia, Municipal Pension Plan and the Managed Forest Council of British Columbia.
Fire Chief Karen Fry, LLD(Hon), BGS, AdeC
From the Vancouver Fire Department, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2023.
Dr. Henry Fung, MD, PhD
Dr. Henry Fung, a retired physician and a pharmacologist, has held a number of academic appointments at medical institutions in North America including the University of British Columbia, the University of Manitoba and Harvard Medical School Dr. Fung has channeled his formidable wisdom into building the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation. As a co-Founder, he was the visionary behind the three-pillar strategy of physical, cultural and economic revitalization of Chinatown. Dr. Fung was the pioneer behind the community housing development Bob Michael’s Place and the Chinatown Storytelling Centre, projects that are reviving Chinatown and the surrounding neighborhoods of Vancouver.
Lieutenant Commander Anne Gardam, CD, AdeC
From the Royal Canadian Navy, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp since 2022.
Anne Giardini, KC, OC, OBC
Author, lawyer, business executive and immediate past chancellor of SFU, for excellence in community leadership.
Christopher Gaze, MSM, OBC
Christopher Gaze is best known as the Founding Artistic Director of Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival, which celebrates its thirty-fifth season in 2024. Christopher plays a leading role in British Columbia as an advocate for the arts in general, and his passionate dedication to Bard on the Beach has fueled its growth into one of the largest professional theatre companies in Canada. The company performs in Vancouver as well as nationally and internationally, drawing a total of well over two million patrons since he founded it in 1990.
Colin Hansen
Colin Hansen was a member of the Legislative Assembly for 17 years during which time he served as Deputy Premier, Minister of Health and Minister of Finance. His public service has also included being an active community volunteer since he was a teenager growing up in Courtenay, BC. After four terms as an MLA, he is once again donating much of his time to various not for profit organizations including serving as Chair of the Fraser Basin Council since 2014.
Superintendent Sheree Haydu, AdeC
Representing the BC Ambulance Service, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2023.
John Horgan
John Horgan is a long-time public servant and the Ambassador of Canada to Germany since December 2023. Prior to his role as Ambassador, Mr. Horgan had a successful political career representing his constituency in British Columbia’s provincial parliament through five elections from 2005 to 2023. John Horgan was Premier of British Columbia from 2017 to 2022 and leader of the province’s social democratic New Democratic Party from 2014 to 2022.
Superintendent Navjeet Hothi, AdeC
Representing the RCMP, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2019.
Superintendent Duane Kempton, AdeC
Representing the BC Sherrif Service, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2023.
Jeremy Kinsman
In public service and in civil society, Jeremy Kinsman has devoted his working life to pursuit of the “humanist foreign policy” for Canada proposed by then-Foreign Minister Louis St.Laurent in 1949. In addition to decisive senior roles in Ottawa, he represented Canada abroad as Minister at the UN and in Washington, as Canada’s Ambassador to Russia, Italy, and the European Union, and as High Commissioner in London. Since 2006, he has led international civil society programs to advance human rights and democracy development, while holding appointments at Princeton, Berkeley, and Ryerson universities. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the Canadian International Council.
Chantelle Krish
Chantelle Krish is a community leader with over 20 years of dedicated service, in public and non-profit sectors, driving initiatives that promote equity for women, girls, and marginalized populations. Currently serving as CEO of Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland, she oversees mentorship programs for girls, young women, and gender-diverse youth, aiming to unleash the potential of the next generation of leaders. Her intersectional identity as a woman of colour and second-generation Sri Lankan contributes to her unique perspective and unwavering commitment to advocacy and social justice.
Carol Lee, CM, OBC
For her transformational leadership and business acumen, and for her commitment to the revitalization of Vancouver’s Chinatown. Chair of the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, the Chinatown Storytelling Centre and former trustee from the Government House Foundation, for excellence in community volunteerism.
Lily Lee
Philanthropist and community leader, for her contributions in education, health care and housing. She has worked tirelessly with her daughter Carol in the revitalization of Vancouver’s Chinatown.
Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia, C.M., O.B.C., LL.D(Hon)
Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia is the Co-Founder of Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN), a network of support for individuals and families with autism and related neurodiversity. PAFN has spokes spanning BC with each location offering a variety of tailored resources. She has served as the Vancouver Board of Trade’s fifth female chair in its 130-year history, the Vancouver Police Foundation’s first female Trustee, and a Victoria Royal Roads University Fellow. Wendy is a member of the Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia has received the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal as well as two Honorary Doctorates from the Justice Institute of British Columbia and Vancouver Island University for her autism advocacy work.
Staff Sergeant Major Josh Lockwood, CVE, AdeC
Representing the BC Conservation Officer Service, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2014.
Lieutenant (N) Courtney Looye-Pohoney, AdeC
Representing the Royal Canadian Navy, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2019.
Brandt Louie, CM, OBC, LLD, FCPA, FCA
Brandt Louie has been recognized with numerous awards for his business and philanthropic leadership, including the Order of Canada. He is a business entrepreneur and philanthropist contributing to public and not-for-profit organizations across the economic, education, health and arts sectors. He served on a number of boards and tirelessly uses his platform to mentor and encourage others to engage in giving back. Mr. Louie’s contributions in BC and nationally are extensive, focusing on the positive growth of Canadian society. To that end, he has been a major catalyst and a dedicated advisor for national strategies on anti-Asian racism.
Deputy Warden Adam Lundgren, CD, AdeC
Representing BC Corrections, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2018.
Kevin McCort
Kevin McCort has dedicated his career to building healthy, vibrant, equitable and inclusive communities, across British Columbia and around the world. The first 25 years of Kevin’s career took him around the world, with long-term assignments in Indonesia, Mali, Zimbabwe and Zambia, and many deployments providing emergency and humanitarian assistance throughout Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. Since joining the Vancouver Foundation as President and CEO in 2013, Kevin has overseen dramatic growth of the Foundation, and a transformation of its grantmaking by centering community voices of British Columbians in program design, delivery and monitoring.’
Nancy McHarg
From the Government House Foundation, for outstanding community volunteerism.
Michael McKnight, MM, BSW, BA, ICDd
Michael has spent the last 30 years as CEO of United Way British Columbia. He has generated over $1B in revenue to support healthy, caring, and inclusive communities. During those years he has also been a committed volunteer to many organizations.
Joy McPhail, CM, OBC
Joy MacPhail’s story is of a relentless journey to address injustices faced by people in the world around her; a story of compassion; a story of hope.
Michael O’Connor, KC
Michael O’Connor is a senior partner at McConnan, Bion, O’Connor & Peterson. Mr. O’Connor is the Past Chairman of the Victoria Hospital Foundation Board, the President of the Government House Foundation and Past Commander of the Victoria Commandery of the Order of St. John. Holding several positions at the local, provincial and national levels, he has been Vice President of the Canadian Rugby Union, President of the British Columbia Rugby Union, Chairman of Canada’s First World Cup Rugby Team and he is the Past Vice Chairman of the 1994 Commonwealth Games held in Victoria. Honours include The Queen’s Diamond and Golden Jubilee medals and the Vice-Regal Commendation.
John Pearkes
President of The (former) University Club of Vancouver, Founding Chair of Vancouver Community College Foundation, and National Chair of Wills and Trusts Section Canadian Bar Association, for excellence in community leadership.
Commander G. Bryan Price, CD, AdeC
Representing the Royal Canadian Navy, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2023.
Bob Rennie, OBC
Bob currently sits on numerous boards including being the Chair of Peter Dhillon Centre for Ethics, and President of the Tate Museum American Acquisitions. Bob is a recipient of the Queen’s Diamond, Golden and Platinum Jubilee awards, and wears the Order of British Columbia proudly as well as his honorary doctorate from Emily Carr University. Bob is most recognized for his art collection of over 4000 titles and its focus on social justice for recently handing over the oldest structure in Vancouver‘s Chinatown to the Chinese Canadian Museum. In recognition of Canada’s 150th anniversary, Bob gifted over 197 artworks to the National Gallery of Canada.
Councillor Kyle Sampson
Kyle Sampson is a city councilor, business leader, and community-oriented philanthropist in Prince George, BC. His involvements and achievements are extensive throughout PG, and across British Columbia. He is currently serving his second term on Council, and serves on various boards, including as Vice-Chair of the Regional Hospital District. Sampson has a broad depth of leadership experience in business, particularly in the entertainment/events industry; he dedicates significant time and resources to a variety of causes, charitable involvements, and philanthropic efforts.
Erin Seeley
Erin Seeley is the CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver, one of BC’s largest multi-service charities. In this role, she advocates tirelessly to advance gender equity, overseeing programs supporting women, families and allies including housing, violence prevention, employment, youth and mentorship, and early childhood education. A firm believer in the value of public and community service, Erin previously held leadership roles in the provincial government, including Executive Director of Immigration Programs where she oversaw provincial immigrant selection and settlement. Prior to joining the YWCA, Erin served as Senior Vice President, BC Financial Services Authority and CEO of the Real Estate Council of BC.
The Honourable Jon Sigurdson
Retired Justice of the Supreme Court of British Columbia and past co-chair of the New Federally Appointed Judges Education Program for Canada.
Sandra Singh
A first-generation immigrant to Canada, Sandra Singh has spent over 20 years in public service leadership in British Columbia, most notably as the Chief Librarian of Vancouver Public Library, and General Manager of Arts, Culture and Community Services and Deputy City Manager at the City of Vancouver. Over her career, she has supported Boards and local governments to implement their visions for their communities, with a professional focus on equity and inclusion for marginalized community members. She has served on the Board of national service organizations and led national initiatives related to library access for Canadians facing barriers to equity.
Dr. Geraldine Sinclair
Dr. Gerri Sinclair is a visionary leader in technology innovation, with extensive experience in investment capital, digital media, and information technology. Throughout her career, she has held numerous high-profile positions, including serving as the Government of BC’s Innovation Commissioner, founding SFU’s ExCITE Media lab, and leading the $100M B.C. Technology Investment Fund. Dr. Sinclair’s tireless efforts to drive innovation, support the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies, and nurture the next generation of women tech leaders have earned her multiple prestigious awards, and cemented her status as a trailblazer in Canadian technology industry.
The Honourable Lynn Smith, OC, KC
The Honourable Lynn Smith is a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of British Columbia. She was a Professor and Dean of Law at the University of British Columbia and a leader in judicial education about the Canadian Charter through the National Judicial Institute.
Colonel Wendy Swan, PhD
Canadian by birth and a global citizen by choice, Wendy’s 27 years of international assignments with The Salvation Army in North and South America, South Pacific and East Asia, Africa, and Europe position her well to lead, facilitate and partner with NGOs and FBOs in global conversations regarding social justice matters. She presently serves as Director of the International Social Justice Commission and represents The General of The Salvation Army at the United Nations with expertise in the following UN Sustainable Development Goals – SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, justice and strong institutions. Her most recent publication, Living Right While Righting Wrong challenges humanity to work together for the transformation of individuals and communities.
Anthony von Mandl, OC, OBC
Anthony von Mandl, through his visionary leadership as the founder of Mission Hill Family Estate, has not only revolutionized the wine industry but has also greatly contributed to the economic growth and prosperity of our community. His generous philanthropy towards various charitable causes, particularly in support of cancer research and education, demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Tamara Vrooman, OBC
Tamara Vrooman’s leadership has contributed to the improvement of communities across Canada and is most felt through her work in social finance, climate, and infrastructure with a particular focus on equality, inclusion, and empowerment. She has been an advisor to all levels of government and is often called upon by both private and public sectors given her understanding of the intrinsic link between a strong and sustainable economy and a healthy community. She is currently the CEO of Vancouver International Airport, Chancellor of Simon Fraser University and Chair of the Rick Hansen Foundation amongst others.
Commander King Wan, AdeC
Representing the Royal Canadian Navy, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor, originally appointed in 1989 and after a brief hiatus, returned to service in 2016.
Wahiyow Cawapata Scoo, Barbara Ward-Burkitt , OBC, MEd
Barb has been a part of the Friendship Centre movement since 1972 and currently serves as the executive director of the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, the largest Friendship Centre in Canada. Her life-long commitment to working for urban Indigenous people has led her to develop many programs and supports that reach out a hand of friendship and serve the most vulnerable and marginalized people in community. In her ongoing efforts to end violence toward Indigenous women and girls she has served on the Minister’s Advisory Council on Indigenous Women since 2014, and has been the Chair since 2019, and is also a part of the Gender Based Violence Advisory Council.
Lieutenant Colonel Nick Watts, CD, AdeC
Representing the Canadian Army, for dedicated service as an honorary aide-de-camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2018.
Jamie Webb, CD
Twice-Chair of the Maritime Museum’s board and a leader in this province’s maritime heritage sector. For almost 40 years Jamie has personified what service to community means, also serving as a volunteer lead of the Rainbow Sea Cadets and the Thermopylae Club. Jamie has led the charge for a new home for the museum, established a diversity committee and has fostered collaborative partnerships with local First Nations. On the professional front, Jamie has proudly represented Canada working for the Royal Canadian Navy and was instrumental in organizing the recent successful visit of HRH Princess Anne to Canada.
Faye Wightman, BScN, ICDd
Faye Wightman believes volunteerism and philanthropy are core values that make Canada stronger and has spent her life in the service of others through working in the non-profit sector.
Cathryn Wilson
For outstanding leadership as the Executive Director of BC Achievement Foundation, honouring the achievements of exceptional British Columbians.
Dr. Peter K.K. Wong, OBC, MD
Dr. Wong has dedicated his life to improving the lives of others through his medical practice and philanthropic endeavors. As a renowned physician, he has touched the lives of countless patients, providing them with exceptional care and compassion. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Wong is a founder of West Point Grey Academy, donating both his time and resources to make a positive impact for children and future generations
Recipients of the King Charles III Coronation Medal – July 18 Ceremony at Government House
Dr. Penny Ballem, OBC
Dr. Penny Ballem was appointed Chair of the Board of Vancouver Coastal Health in January 2019. Dr. Ballem is a clinical professor of medicine at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. She has had a 35-year career as a health leader and academic clinician in British Columbia. She served as the B.C. deputy minister of health from 2001-06. She also served as the city manager for the City of Vancouver from 2008-15, and has extensive board experience, having served on public sector, non-profit and private sector boards. She advises governments across Canada on health policy, health systems and health human resources.
Ross Beaty, CM, MSc, JD, LL.D
Ross Beaty is a geologist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist with over 50 years of experience in mineral and renewable energy industries, including founder and chairman Emeritus of Pan American Silver and founder and chair of Equinox Gold Corp. Ross is also patron of the Beaty Biodiversity Museum at UBC, a member of the Order of Canada, director of the Pacific Salmon Foundation and Panthera Foundation, chair of the BC Parks Foundation, and the founder and president of the Sitka Foundation.
Mary Cake
Before joining the Friends of Government House Gardens Society in 2007, Mary Cake found success in organic vegetable gardening in California. In her role as Vegetable Garden coordinator, Mary’s knowledge and experience has greatly contributed to the Government House grounds and success of the garden. Over the winter, Mary combs through seed catalogues searching for suitable vegetables for our climate and palettes, tirelessly produces spreadsheets of vegetables with planting and harvest dates and uses excess vegetables to raise money for the Friends. With a supportive cast of 20 volunteers assisting her, find Mary working away under her trademark wide-rimmed floral hat.
Lieutenant Colonel Greg Chan, CD, AdeC
Representing the Royal Westminster Regiment, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2019.
Commander (Ret’d) Peter Chance
At the age of 18, Peter Chance became the Junior Figure Skating Champion of Canada. He followed this achievement by serving in the Royal Canadian Navy from 1938 until 1969. Upon retirement he served as administrator at Osgoode Hall, York University’s Law School in Toronto. After moving west in 1975, he spent 12 years as the founding Executive Director of the BC/Yukon Region for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, a program he supported until the end of his life. His legacy also includes founding Maritime Awards Society endowment funds at various universities, raising support of the ALS Society at the national level, supporting various local former military service charities, and volunteering at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital into his 90’s. The Battle of Atlantic Gallery at the CFB Esquimalt Naval Museum is known as the Peter Chance Gallery.
Queenie Choo, RN, BScN, MN, CHE, H. Capt. (N)
A champion for affordable housing, immigrant services and seniors care, Choo is a tireless advocate who builds community coalitions, finds solutions, celebrates diversity and speaks against racism and hate. She serves on Invest Vancouver Board to promote economic prosperity and leads the Diversity Council for the RCN to advance gender equity. Choo is the first Chinese Canadian woman appointed as honorary captain of RCN. She was nominated as a YWCA Woman of Distinction. For 2021-2023, Choo was recognized as an influential leader by Business in Vancouver, and she earned a Richmond Centre Outstanding Constituent Award for her volunteer work.
Carol Dancer
Carol has been a hard-working Friend since 1998 and has served the Friends in many important roles, including her expertise as Horticultural Advisor, and her time on the Friends’ Board and the Garden Management Board. She holds the position of coordinator of three gardens: the Winter Garden, the Dogwood Azalea Walk and the Iris Garden. Prior to the development of a dedicated nursery, Carol spent many years organizing and executing the Friends Annual Plant Sale, a much-anticipated neighbourhood event and profitable fundraiser. Most recently Carol was instrumental in planning the Friendship Garden in recognition of the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Dr. Aaron Devor, PhD, FSSSS, FSTLHE
Currently based at the University of Victoria, Dr. Aaron Devor has been studying and teaching about transgender topics since the mid-1980s. He is a national award-winning teacher, and an elected member of the elite International Academy of Sex Research. Dr. Devor, an out trans man, is the Founder and Subject Matter Expert of the world’s largest Transgender Archives, Founder and Host of the Moving Trans History Forward conferences, a former Dean of Graduate Studies (2002-2012), and a professor of Sociology, at the University of Victoria in British Columbia, Canada.
Chief Constable Neil Dubord, OOM, PhD, AdeC
Representing the Delta Police Department, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2018.
Ruth Fenner
Ruth Fenner has been involved with the British Columbia Women’s Institute (BCWI) for many years, working at both the federal, provincial and local levels of the organization, involved in community work and working on provincial projects. She is currently a member of the Somenos Women’s Institute located on Vancouver Island and is also the Provincial Historian for the Province. The BCWI motto reads: “Women interested, informed and involved in building a better tomorrow”, words to aptly describe Ruth Fenner.
Major Randy Fisher, CD, AdeC
Representing the Regional Cadet Support Unit Pacific, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2023.
Superintendent (Ret’d) Brendan FitzPatrick, MOM, AdeC
Representing the RCMP, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2014.
Peter Fox
Peter Fox’s service to the Royal Life Saving Society spans decades and continents, reflecting his commitment to drowning prevention and advancement of water safety initiatives. Peter has served as a volunteer board member in Canada and Australia for over 25 years, volunteering in Canada as a Vice-President on the Board of Directors of the BC/Yukon Branch from 2012-2018. In 2018, he continued to drive collaboration and progress as Branch President, later expanding his leadership nationally representing BC/Yukon on the Board of Directors for Lifesaving Society Canada. His unwavering dedication and leadership have left a lasting impact on the Royal Life Saving Society and its mission of drowning prevention.
Lieutenant (N) Derek Frank, AdeC
Representing the Royal Canadian Navy, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2022.
Joe Gardner, MB, PAg, MSc
Representing the Government House Foundation, for outstanding community volunteerism.
Marlene Goley
Marlene Goley, manager of The Cridge Transition House for women, has spent over 35 years serving families experiencing intimate-partner violence. Joining The Cridge Centre team 1989, she brought with her a passion, energy, and commitment to helping women with the tools they need to rebuild a life for themselves and thrive in the community. Through much personal sacrifice, she provides both care to families affected by violence and seeks to dismantle the social systems that perpetuate the cycle of violence. Today she remains equally passionate about providing housing, services, advocacy, and education as she did 35 years ago.
Patty Grant
President of The Friends of Government House Gardens Society, and representing the Government House Foundation, for outstanding community volunteerism.
Superintendent Glen Greenhill, MStJ, AdeC
Representing BC Emergency Health Services, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2017.
Kevin Hall
As a civil engineer, Dr. Kevin Hall has put research into practice by delivering knowledge to industry and community by carrying out trans-disciplinary research across several major themes including water quality modeling, development of environmental monitoring and pathogen detection systems, syndromic surveillance, and water and health in marginalized communities. Kevin has also been closely involved in the design and implementation of Indigenous and gender programs at three Canadian universities. He boasts 37 years of commitment to excellence in higher education and has been a mentor and coach to over 50 start-up companies.
Nasim Hamed
Nasim Hamed immigrated to Canada from Iran 35 years ago. Through her leadership at the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Community Society, she has contributed significantly to the settlement and integration of thousands of newcomers in the Greater Victoria Region for over 20 years. Her compassionate dedication and deep understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants and refugees have made a lasting impact on the community, embodying the values of service, diversity, and sustainability.
Inspector Grant Hamilton, AdeC
Representing the Victoria Police Department, for dedicated service as an Honorary-Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2018.
Dr. Bonnie Henry, OBC
Dr. Bonnie Henry was appointed as BC’s Provincial Health Officer in 2018. She is responsible for monitoring the health of all British Columbians and undertaking measures for disease prevention and control and health protection, and has led the province’s response on the COVID-19 pandemic and drug overdose emergency. Her experience in public health, preventive medicine and global pandemics has extended throughout her career. She served in a number of senior roles at the BC CDC and Toronto Public Health, including as the operational lead in the response to the SARS outbreak in Toronto. She has worked internationally with the WHO/UNICEF polio eradication program in Pakistan and with the WHO to control the Ebola outbreak in Uganda and has been actively involved in mass gathering health planning in Canada and internationally.
Geraldine Hinton, DstJ
Representing the Government House Foundation for outstanding community volunteerism.
Herman Ho, KStJ, MB, AdeC
Representing St. John’s Ambulance for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2007.
Senior Inspector Matthew Holloway, AdeC
Representing the BC Sheriffs Service for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2023.
T’esóts’en, Patrick Kelly
Patrick Kelly has dedicated himself to many communities in Canada and abroad to advance Indigenous peoples and create cultural bridges. Through his forty years of volunteerism, independent work, and as an esteemed advisor to many influential leaders, Patrick has identified, informed, and affected change regarding Indigenous ceremony, protocol, legal and policy opinions all while seamlessly weaving Indigenous cultural practices into the process. Through education, collaboration, governance, and facilitation of parties representing all sides, Patrick imbues mutual respect and understanding on any matter he advises on. Canada is forever changed because of Patrick’s lifelong outstanding and selfless service.
Louise Klaassen
Louise has been a member of the Friends of Government House Gardens Society since 2016 and has served on the Board as Secretary, and as coordinator of the Rotary Garden, overseeing a wholesale renovation of that garden used for many community events. In partnership with the Cottage Garden, new deer protected spaces have allowed the Flower Designers of the Friends to grow flowers for sale in their bouquets, providing a wonderful example of teamwork for the benefit of all the gardens. Louise also volunteers as a Gallery Associate of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and with her community’s urban vegetable garden located in the heart of downtown.
Grania Litwin
Representing the Government House Foundation for outstanding community volunteerism.
Professor Maureen Maloney, OBC, KC
Maureen Maloney has broken glass ceilings as a role model for women in law, education and public service. A distinguished lawyer, academic and public policy practitioner, her contributions have improved lives and expanded opportunities. As BC’s first woman law dean, she championed equity and diversity and established Canada’s inaugural chair in environmental law. As BC’s first woman Deputy Attorney General, she spearheaded reforms to enhance access to justice for vulnerable individuals and groups, and as an academic and public policy practitioner, she led initiatives to advance human rights, resolve conflicts, and drive justice reform at home and around the world.
Captain Nicola Mancey, AdeC
Representing the Canadian Coast Guard, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2019.
Captain Richard Marriott MM, AFNI, AdeC
Representing the Canadian Coast Guard, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2019.
Diana Maughan
From the Government House Foundation for outstanding community volunteerism.
Major Adam McLeod, CD, AdeC
Representing the British Columbia Regiment, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2018.
Robert Milne
Robert Milne is a transformational force for the City of Victoria through his community service, leadership and philanthropy. A senior partner of JB Lawyers LLP, where he practices in the areas of business law, non-profit housing and real estate development, Robert shares his time, talents and treasure serving on the boards of organizations including Pacific Opera Victoria, Dance Victoria, Royal Roads University, Greater Victoria Public Library, Provincial Capital Commission, and AIDS Vancouver Island.
Honorary Colonel Derral Moriyama, AdeC
Representing the 39 Canadian Brigade Group, for dedicated service as an Honorary-Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2024.
Alex Muir
With 40 years of service, Alex is the longest serving volunteer with Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue. He was instrumental in developing the Oak Bay and Victoria marine rescue stations, credited with saving many lives and much property by providing year-round professional marine rescue services. His fundraising efforts enabled the purchase of all the rescue vessels for Oak Bay. He has taken on almost every role within the station, including Station Leader, President of the Oak Bay Sea Recue Society, and was an active coxswain for 33 years. Alex has personally trained many rescue volunteers and saved countless boaters.
Susan Myerscough
Susan Meyerscough has been a volunteer for the Friends of Government House Gardens Society in the Woodlands for the past 15 years. During her time on the Friends Board of Directors as Director of Gardening, she honed her skills as an expert death cap mushroom sleuth, and brings a calm demeanor and logical approach as a current member of the Garden Management Board. Susan is a valued volunteer at the Saanich Pioneer Museum, actively helps coordinate and participates in the Bio Blitz, as well as the South Vancouver Island Mycological Society’s Mushroom Forays.
Nancy Noble
Nancy Noble is CEO of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and has spent over 30 years working in museums across the country. Under her leadership the Museum of Vancouver (MOV) won the Governor General’s History Award for excellence for c̓əsnaʔəm: the city before the city, a collaboration with UBC and the Musqueam. She also led several significant repatriations to Indigenous communities in BC. Nancy was a board member and President of the Canadian Museums Association, currently sits on the Board of CAMDO-ODMAC and has sat on numerous other arts and cultural boards across Canada. In 2018 she was made a Fellow of the Canadian Museums Association, its highest honour. Nancy continues to work to make museums more relevant and accessible to the communities they serve.
Richard Osler
Representing the Government House Foundation for outstanding community volunteerism.
Professor Andrew Petter, CM, OBC, KC
Andrew Petter’s vison and leadership have profoundly shaped the political, physical and academic landscape of British Columbia. As a provincial cabinet minister, he played a pivotal role developing innovative public policies, including the establishment of the BC Treaty Commission, implementation of the Forest Practices Code, and advancement of same-sex rights. He also made enormous contributions to the quality of life of the Capital Region through his promotion of park expansion, trail development and heritage preservation. More recently, as President and Vice Chancellor of Simon Fraser University, he championed university-community engagement and advanced higher education across Canada and abroad.
J. Pauline Rafferty, OBC
Representing the Government House Foundation for outstanding community volunteerism.
Janet Renouf
Janet Renouf has been a member of the Friends of Government House Gardens Society since 2005. In the past, she was a member of the Board and served as President of the Friends. Janet is very active with the Gary Oak Eco System Restoration Society covering Southern Vancouver Island. She also works with the Natures Trust to preserve the eco system and native plants of our area. Janet has been instrumental in fostering three scientific studies into the native fungi in the twelve acres of protected woodlands at Government House, and leads a crew of senior volunteers eradicating invasive weeds in the Woodlands.
Wush’q, Ronald Rice
Ron Rice is the executive director of the Victoria Native Friendship Centre. At seven years old, Ron’s grandfather, Elmer Campbell, offered simple advice to him: it does not matter what you do for a living as long as you learn from every job and give back when you can. Deeply inspired by this, Ron has given back through volunteerism, supporting local business and the arts, and, in the era of Reconciliation, listening and answering graciously asked questions.
Sandra Richardson, OBC
Sandra Richardson is one of Canada’s most influential and quiet changemakers of our time. Her dedication to improving and supporting the charitable sector demonstrates her lifelong commitment and selfless service. Through innovation, collaboration, and culturally respectful practices, Sandra has strategically aligned organizations and individuals at all levels to participate in community building and systems change. Sandra has lived the example of servant leadership and is held in very high regard across the sector locally, provincially, nationally, and even internationally. Her achievements are many, and the charitable sector is significantly better because of her kind, intelligent, and respectful leadership.
Brian Rogers
Representing the Government House Foundation for outstanding community volunteerism.
Donalda Rossman
Donalda joined the Friends of Government House Gardens Society in 2011 and is an enthusiastic member of the non-gardening groups, as well as having served as co-director of the non-garden groups on the Friends board. Donalda volunteers as the monthly cottage coffee morning coordinator, with the costume museum, the greeters, and the tea room, and helped establish the Friends-led coat check group at Government House. Donalda can be found wherever there is work to be done for the Friends, along with volunteering in the community.
Correctional Officer (Ret’d) Nathan Sangara, AdeC
Representing BC Corrections, for dedicated service as an Honorary-Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2023.
Cloy-e-iis, Dr. Judith Sayers
Judith is a powerful advocate for First Nations rights within B.C., across Canada, and internationally. Judith is a bridge builder. She is a longtime champion of reconciliation between First Nations and Canada, putting First Nations rights at the forefront of her collaborative bridge building between First Nations, government, and industry. She is a trailblazer, leading the way for other First Nations to follow and making waves of change across sectors. She has been Chief, Professor, Chancellor, lawyer and currently President of her nation’s Tribal council.
Mary Anne Skill
Mary Anne joined the Friends of Government House Gardens Society in 2012. As curator of the Costume Museum, she has been involved since its inception. Her positive enthusiasm, creative energy and knowledge, along with her leadership skills, have turned this historical Mews museum into a fascinating destination for the Government House Estate. Mary Anne also brings her graphic design and editorial skills to the Friends, as part of the editorial and mailing group for the Cary Bulletin for many years, and assisting with the creation of signage, pamphlets and brochures. She also served a term on the Friends board as Secretary.
Colin Smith, PEng, PE
President of the Government House Foundation; representing the Government House Foundation for outstanding community volunteerism.
Dr. Philip Steenkamp
Dr. Philip Steenkamp, in his second five-year term as president and vice-chancellor of Royal Roads University, has served as vice-president, external relations, at both the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University. He previously held senior leadership positions in multiple provincial ministries over a 17-year career in the public service, including the office of deputy minister in British Columbia and Ontario. He has served on numerous boards and committees, with provincial and national profiles. Steenkamp was president and chief executive officer of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games Secretariat and holds a PhD in History from Queen’s University.
Lieutenant Commander Nathaniel Sukhdeo, AdeC
Representing the Royal Canadian Navy, for dedicated service as an Honorary-Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Governor since 2022.
Carole Taylor, OC, OBC
Carole Taylor has served British Columbia and Canada in politics as BC’s Minister of Finance and as a Vancouver Alderman, in academia as Chancellor of both Simon Fraser University and Victoria University at the University of Toronto and in media as a public affairs journalist over several decades. Carole also chaired two of Canada’s major Crown Corporations: CBC/Radio-Canada and the Port of Vancouver. In recognition of her work, she has been named an Officer of the Order of Canada, a recipient of the Order of British Columbia and has received four Honorary Degrees from Canadian universities.
Penny Tennenhouse
Penny Tennenhouse is not only a Friend with the Friends of Government House Gardens Society since 2006, she is also a true friend of the community. With her beaming smile, she is active with The Coldest Night, Avodah, Our Place, and other organizations helping the most vulnerable members of our community. She is a regular in the Government House Vegetable Garden, including having helped haul a cart to the various gardens with fresh produce for sale. She is often called upon to provide her skill behind the camera to provide a record of events held by the Friends of Government House.
Liz Thompson
Liz joined The Friends of Government House Gardens Society in 2009. As a member of the Victoria Floral Artist Guild, Liz was co-coordinator with the Government House floral designer group. Since then, she has launched the Flower Designer’s Garden and grows flowers for the bouquets sold by the group. Liz and her group also provide all flowers for the tables at Rudi’s Tea Room. Liz is an accomplished visual artist producing water colour, acrylic and oil paintings, with paintings hung in the Cottage and as souvenir note cards. The funds raised from these endeavors go directly to the Friends. Liz has also served as a Director at large on the Friends board.
Marney Thompson
Marney Thompson is an international expert in grief and loss. A skilled educator and researcher, she sits on the Canadian Grief Alliance, working closely with the BC Centre for Palliative Care on the provincial bereavement action plan. She has co-authored numerous articles and the award-winning book Transitions in dying and bereavement: A psychosocial guide for hospice and palliative care. She shares her knowledge as a sought-after speaker with Canadian Virtual Hospice. Marney joined Victoria Hospice in 1994 as a community counsellor. She has worked on the unit, the Palliative Response Team, and now leads as Director, Bereavement Services.
Arthur Timms
Since Arthur joined the Friends of Government House Gardens Society on January 28, 2002, the society has reaped the benefits of his extensive knowledge of plants. He was part of the team that converted the Terraces directly behind Government House from an area overgrown with blackberries, hypericum and ivy to the spectacular garden it is today. Always a gentleman, he has served as secretary on the Board of Directors, led hundreds of garden tours for groups from all over the world, and until recently been the coordinator for the Terraces.
Inspector (Ret’d) Robert Usui, MStJ, AdeC
Representing the Vancouver Police Department, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp since 2017.
R. David Valentine, CStJ, CD, AdeC
Representing St. John’s Ambulance, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp since 2005.
Deputy Chief Constable Robert Warren, MPA, AdeC
Representing the Saanich Police Department, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp since 2017.
Staff Sergeant (Ret’d) Stephen Wright, AdeC
Representing the RCMP, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp since 2020.
Inspector Terry Yung, MGC, AdeC
Representing the Vancouver Police Department, for dedicated service as an Honorary Aide-de-Camp since 2021.