The iconic snowflake insignia is awarded to Order of Canada recipients. In the year-end announcement by Governor General Mary Simon, Dr. Richard Weisel and Pierre Lassonde were among the appointments. (Photo: Government of Canada)
An Emeritus Scientist at UHN and a former UHN Board member and philanthropist are among the latest recipients of one of Canada’s highest honours.
Dr. Richard Weisel and Pierre Lassonde were among 99 new appointments to the Order of Canada made by Governor General Mary Simon.
“Celebrated trailblazers in their respective fields, they are inspiring, educating and mentoring future generations, creating a foundation of excellence in our country that is respected throughout the world,” the Governor General said in a news release accompanying the announcement.
“Their commitment to the betterment of Canada fills me with pride and hope for the future. Alianaigusuqatigiivassi. Congratulations.”
Dr. Weisel, an Emeritus Scientist at UHN’s Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, was named a Member of the Order in recognition of “his leadership as an academic cardiovascular surgeon and for his scientific contributions to the field.”
Pierre Lassonde, a former member of both the UHN Board of Trustees and the Board of Directors of the Toronto General and Western Hospital Foundation (now UHN Foundation), was named an Officer of the Order, “for his long-standing contributions to the gold industry and for his transformative philanthropy, notably in support of the arts and education.” This was a promotion within the Order.
Each recipient will be invited to accept their insignia at a ceremony at a later date.
The Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. More than 7,600 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order since its creation in 1967.
